Local History and Heritage

Southampton is a thriving modern city but you don't have to explore too far to discover its amazing past.

Below the modern streets can be found evidence of occupation from prehistoric times to the present, including important Roman and Saxon settlements, and the late Saxon and medieval town and villages that laid the basis for the modern city and suburbs. The unique location at the head of Southampton Water early on became an important trading post and later a port.

Large parts of the centre of Southampton were destroyed during the Second World War. However some important medieval buildings and structures survive, along with buildings dating to the 19th century redevelopment of the town. These include the Wool House (Maritime Museum), Medieval Merchants House, God's House Tower (Museum of Archaeology), Tudor House Museum, and a superb length of medieval town wall.

Southampton has important archives, collections and other sources for local and family history research. The city also has a unique Oral History Unit, recording the memories of local people.

For more information about Southampton's archaeology, buildings and monuments, Oral History projects and historical sources, follow the links below. For information about museums in the city, follow the Internal Link on the right.

Archives service

From 1199 to the present day, Southampton Archives Services hold a rich variety of material relating to the city and its people. Whether you are researching your Southampton or merchant seamen ancestors, the history of your house or general topics such as Southampton during the Second World War, we may have sources to help.

Archaeology

For information about Southampton's rich archaeological remains, and archaeological services provided by Southampton City Council.

Oral History Unit

An archive of live story interviews, projects recording history of local communities, training in oral history methodology, exhibition and publications.

Museums

Southampton Museums showcase an impressive selection of exhibitions, artefacts and events.

Historic Buildings and Monuments

For information about Southampton's historic buildings and monuments.

Genealogy

This service can assist you in finding records of burials which have taken place in the city..

Historic Maps of Southampton

Find out about two important historic maps of Southampton - the 1846 map and the 1870 town plan - now available on-line.

The Cenotaph

For a list of names inscribed on The Cenotaph war memorial.