University History Collection – Archive

The University History Collection archive contains around a thousand boxes of institutional records created by the University of Reading and its predecessor governing bodies. Those predecessor governing bodies  include the University Extension College, (1892-1898), Reading College, (1898-1902), and University College, Reading, (1902-1926).  The granting of a Royal Charter constituting and incorporating University College, Reading as The University of Reading happened on 17th March 1926.  Reading was the only University to be awarded a charter between the two world wars.  This history is explored further on our timeline .

Records of the various sites occupied by the University over its years of existence are represented within the archive.  The College was originally situated in buildings around Valpy Street in Reading, from 1882-1906.  Following a gift from Mr Alfred Palmer, (Huntley & Palmers, Biscuit manufacturers, Reading) the College was able to expand and move to its London Road site where it continued to thrive during both World Wars.  The campus at Whiteknights, was purchased in 1947 and is the former home of the Marquis of Blandford. This 130 hectare country estate with conservation meadows, a lake and a collection of rare trees, features several listed buildings. Greenlands, the Thameside campus and former country residence of W. H. Smith, became the University’s latest campus following the merger with Henley Management College in 2008.

The University History collection archive allows you to explore minutes and working papers of committees, alongside financial and legal records and analyse the decision making process of the corporate body.  Records created during the academic life of  a student and records of the development of academic departments and programmes could bring to life family history and research on the history of education.  The archive captures moments of celebration when opening buildings or awarding qualifications and the vibrant student life experienced by our alumni.  Changing campuses and building design can be examined in the surviving plans, along with records of local history interest within the deed collections. The paper records, photographic, audio-visual material and objects are waiting to be explored.

Please note the collection is stored off site, so please contact us at least five working days in advance of your visit.

More information

• We are working on cataloguing the University History Collection. When items are catalogued, they become searchable via the online catalogue. Please contact us if you need more information. 
• University History Collection: Library
• University History Resources – Academic and Personal Papers
• University History Resources – Associated Collections