The Royal Bath & West Society has been documenting its activities since it was founded in 1777. These valuable collections are the responsibility of the Royal Bath and West Society’s Library and Archives Committee and are maintained and managed by Honorary Librarian, Dr Thomas Rogers (library@bath.ac.uk), and Honorary Archivist, Richard Meunier (archives@bathnes.gov.uk).
The Royal Bath & West Society Library
The Library is located at the University of Bath and comprises of over 1,000 books, journals & pamphlets related to agrarian matters with a strong emphasis on the West of England.
A number of important periodicals are also held at the Library, including a full set of Bath & West publications. Much of the material is nineteenth century or earlier. All books are catalogued and can be traced via the University of Bath Website – click HERE to for more information. You can contact the Library on 01225 385000. Their opening hours are Monday – Friday, between 9am-5pm.
The Royal Bath & West Society Archive
The Archive contains a documentary record of the Society’s activities from its foundation in 1777 to the present day. The early decades of agricultural experiment and innovation are well represented in minute books, accounts and correspondence. From the mid 19th century, the annual Royal Bath & West Show was recorded in administrative papers, press cuttings & photographs.
The Archive is held in Bath at the Record Office of Bath & North East Somerset Council, where it is open to researchers during office hours, Tuesday to Friday. Click HERE to visit the Bath Record Office website or HERE to view the Somerset Archives Catalogue.
The Story of the Bath & West
Delve deeper into the history of the Society, with the Story of the Bath & West. Click the button below to read more…