Barnsley Archives’ Conservation programme – The History of Wombwell 

Barnsley Archives and Local Studies have an ongoing conservation programme to ensure that the 4000 collections in our custody can still be safely used by researchers many years, decades and centuries from now. The programme is a crucial part of the work we do and is supported by Barnsley MBC, the Friends of Barnsley Archives and the Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust.  

One unique volume that we commissioned work on during 2024 was Derrick Markham’s ‘Wombwell Historical Records’ which he compiled many years ago, and contains historical sources and information that could no longer be found elsewhere. Derrick never sought to publish his scrapbook, but the original manuscript was frequently consulted by visitors to Wombwell Library over many years. That frequent use had left the book in a poor condition, so Barnsley Libraries took the decision to transfer it to Barnsley Archives back in 2016. However, due to its condition, it wasn’t really possible for us to allow researchers to consult it. We simply had it for safekeeping. 

The book’s boards were loose, the spine had become detached, Sellotape had been used to re-attach inserts, some inserts were loose and in danger of being lost and the whole volume was dirty and discoloured. Now, following a programme of work by a professional conservator, we can ensure the long-term survival of Derrick’s unique history of Wombwell, whilst allowing researchers full access. 

Paul Stebbing 

BMBC Archives and Local Studies Manager