Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust is honoured to have been awarded a £6,000 cataloguing grant from the Business Archives Council (BAC).
The Palace’s archive offers a remarkable insight into our social, architectural and cultural past. The collection includes thousands of photographs and negatives, architectural plans and drawings, structural records, business documents and items of memorabilia dating from 1859 to the present day.
L-R: Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust Julia Melady (Archive Volunteer), Kirsten Forrest (Curatorial & Interpretation Manager), Katherine Harding (Head of Fundraising)
Together, these materials chart the history of Alexandra Palace, including the launch of the world’s first high-definition public television service by the BBC in 1936, and the Palace’s use as a refugee centre and internment camp during both World Wars.
The BAC’s annual grant programme supports the cataloguing and preservation of business archives across the UK, helping ensure collections of national and local importance remain accessible for researchers, heritage specialists and the public. It also provides hands-on opportunities for archivists, early-career professionals and volunteers.
During the restoration of the Palace’s East Wing and Victorian Theatre in 2016, thousands of historic records were rediscovered.
“We’re absolutely thrilled that the Business Archives Council has recognised the importance of our archive,” says Kirsten Forrest, Curatorial & Interpretation Manager. “This funding will help us to preserve and share our stories with everyone, ensuring the collection remains accessible in the future for all to enjoy.”
The grant will also fund a project archivist to support high-level cataloguing and strengthen our work with The National Archives Discovery platform, Haringey Archive and Museum Service, and the Hornsey Historical Society.
“This marks an important step forward in protecting the history of the Park and Palace for generations to come,” adds Emma Dagnes OBE, Chief Executive. “Opening up these records will inspire others, strengthen relationships with our communities and help us share this wonderful collection in new and innovative ways.”
The archive will also support future heritage and learning programmes, including the 90th anniversary of television in 2026 and Haringey’s year as London Borough of Culture in 2027.
