Research guides
Getting started with your research
Research guides on Essex Archives Online
On Essex Archives Online you can find guides for getting started with your research:
Understanding your search results
You can also find more detailed guides for:
Researching your family history
Researching your house's history
Researching your classic vehicle
Understanding electoral registers and poll books
Understanding parish registers
Guide for creatives
Creative? Interested in using archives? Take a look at our new guide to using the Essex Record Office for creatives!
The guide covers how to search, access, and use the archives at the Essex Record Office, what we can offer, case studies, and some inspiration from the collections.
Read more about the guide and access it online
Guide to Harlow and Basildon Development Corporation records
Harlow and Basildon were part of the New Town movement to help rebuild the country after World War Two. The concept behind New Towns was to ensure essential amenities for daily living were within close proximity. These encompassed healthcare facilities, educational institutions, retail outlets, green spaces, and employment opportunities. Development Corporations were established to create New Towns. They had a much wider range of powers and responsibilities than local councils. The New Town Development Corporation records are much richer resources than council papers, providing fascinating insights into many aspects of 20th century life.
Exploring the New Town Development Corporation Records
Harlow and Basildon in the Essex Sound and Video Archive
Historic recipes
Take a look at our guide to making your own preserved quinces and quince wine.
