Sign in

Suffolk Archives

@suffolkarchives.bsky.social
306 followers 3 following 217 posts

The Hold in Ipswich is where Suffolk’s past meets your present. Preserving stories from everyday lives to historic moments, 900+ years of history at your fingertips, discover your story. A Suffolk County Council service. linktr.ee/suffolkarchives

PostsRepliesMedia
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 6h
Our Collection Team were delighted to welcome members of Captain George Sampson Elliston MC's family. They were depositing letters to his four then young children, and other items, sent during his time in France with the RAMC in the First World War. More on these when they become available to view.
041
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 12h
This five-week online course is ideal for family and local historians looking to move from documents to a grounded and carefully constructed life story. Learn to interpret parish and workhouse material, from admissions and discharges to other key records. Book orlo.uk/oREN1
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 11/10/2026
Enjoy some spooky family-friendly crafts in a calm and creative session. For children who enjoy a quieter space where they can craft at their own pace. Suitable for ages 4-11. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Booking required orlo.uk/2nAhh
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 11/10/2026
Our new project, London Overspill: Collecting New Town Suffolk Stories, explores London's post-war migration programme and its impact on Suffolk. Did you move to or grow up in Haverhill, Great Cornard, Mildenhall and other new towns post-war? Share your story by emailing archives@suffolk.gov.uk
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 10/10/2026
Join us to mark Halloween, also known as Samhain, for wellbeing, Tarot and bone reading, a plant lore family workshop, straw plaiting, talks, arts and crafts, and a screening of the Disney classic Hocus Pocus (PG). Find out more and book orlo.uk/JLd5E
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
A showcase of works by Suffolk-based artist, educator, and maker Margaret Holder. Photography, handmade books, and textiles alongside workshops and drop-in sessions. Each workshop has a different theme. Find out more and book orlo.uk/wBs6V
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
Magical things are popping up around The Hold Ipswich as we get closer to our Witches: Exploring Suffolk’s Dark Legacy Exhibition opening on 16 October. Have you spotted any of our enchanting clues? Book orlo.uk/vdZcz Thanks to Weston Loan Programme and Debach Enterprises
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
Looking forward to our major new exhibition Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy? Our friends at Suffolk Community Libraries have put together a list of spooky reads to get you in the mood. See it here orlo.uk/j9kKV Find out more about the exhibition orlo.uk/rslPX
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
Want to know how to cure freckles, a red face or prevent falling? We've added a fascinating, handwritten family book containing an A- Z list of ailments and cures to our archives (collection HD4543 ). Browse our collections orlo.uk/GUIyx
131
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Enjoy some frighteningly good family friendly Halloween crafts inspired by our Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy exhibition at Halesworth Library on 28 October, Stowmarket Library on 29 October, and The Hold Ipswich 29-31 October. For ages 4-11. Booking required orlo.uk/CWGEC
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Matthew Hopkins has arrived at Suffolk Archives. Our team has been hard at work installing Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy. It features original items from our collections, and loans from museums and collections across the UK. It runs 16 October until 21 February 2027. Book orlo.uk/cy12v
001
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 06/10/2026
Meet mysterious characters in a storytelling session inspired by the themes of our new exhibition - Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy. Then help teller Justine make up new stories using the objects, images and documents in the exhibition as inspiration. For ages 4-11. Book orlo.uk/CHJp1
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
A reminder our cafe and shop will close at 3pm today for IT work to be carried out. Apologies for any inconvenience.
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 03/10/2026
Red Rose Chain Theatre Company are excited to announce their upcoming production Oyster Man, 10-11 October. It was created in partnership with Dr Tom Johnson through his project funded by The British Academy, with research materials from Suffolk Archives. Find out more orlo.uk/E6bUP
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Our cafe and shop will close at 3pm on Monday, 5 October, for IT work to be carried out. Apologies for any inconvenience.
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Quiz an archivist on what we do, the collections we house, and how to start your own historical research. Book orlo.uk/zFsuT Walking tour. Chances to sit. Accessibility info orlo.uk/WdT6x
020
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Self-appointed Witchfinder General Matthew Hopkins terrorised East Anglia for nearly three years. Historian Stephen Poulter explains Hopkins' methods and the stories of those he persecuted. Ages 12+. Book orlo.uk/5HcYo
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Thanks to the 10,514 people who visited our exhibition The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour. An equally big thank you to our colouring competition entrants. The winner will be revealed shortly so keep an eye on our socials. Our new exhibition - Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy opens on 16 October.
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
We've still spaces left for next week's talk exploring the rise and fall of Suffolk's psychiatric hospitals. See some of the records revealing what life inside both was like for patients and staff. Book orlo.uk/5SiOo
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Our survey of non-conformist records across Suffolk saw us reviewing archives from The Association of Grace Baptist Churches (East Anglia). We found a treasure trove of minute books, photos, and more which we'll make available for researchers. Here's how to donate records orlo.uk/GXAv9
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
If you're looking for present ideas The Hold Gift Shop has a range of 2027 diaries and calendars from Kew Royal Botanic Gardens, the RSPB, Angela Harding and more. Every purchase supports our work to preserve the county's heritage. Discount for bus, train, or bicycle users. Open 10am-5pm, Mon-Sat.
001
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Iron gall ink was used as early as the 3rd Century and for writing and drawing across Europe for more than a thousand years. Explore its history, its uses, and preservation issues as you follow a historic recipe to make and try out your own. Book orlo.uk/5bZa1
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Julie Johnson guides you through the history of Suffolk’s workhouses and how to work with parish and workhouse material to turn them into a clear, evidence-based account of an individual’s life within the system. Ideal for family and local historians. Book orlo.uk/218jf
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Finally, a cake you can send in the post! Discover a range of greetings cards by Ipswich-based illustrator Two For Joy Illustration in The Hold Gift Shop. We’re proud to showcase local artists. Every purchase supports our work to preserve the county’s heritage for future generations.
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Gather your coven and walk the witches' road on these curator-led experiences. Discover the stories behind the spells, see what secrets the Tarot cards hold, get the tea on the real lives of those accused of witchcraft. What path will you take? Email archives.events.hire@suffolk.gov.uk to book.
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Ever wondered who your ancestors where and how they lived? Discover their story here for Free. A friendly intro to the key records and subscriptions including Ancestry and Find My Past. Ideal whether you're new to family history or want help on what to explore next. Book orlo.uk/rVyvT
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Captioned performance of NT Live's The Misanthrope, 17 October, 1pm. Sandra Oh stars in this razor-sharp reimagining of Molière’s classic dark comedy. Novelist Alice must confront the price of speaking her truth in a world that would rather silence her. Book www.ticketsource.com/suffolk-arch...
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 20/09/2026
Would you like to host the touring version of our Beyond Labels: Celebrating Disability in Suffolk exhibition. It's visited Ipswich, Saxmundham, Mildenhall, Brandon, Woodbridge, and Haverhill. Interested? Email archives@suffolk.gov.uk
001
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
Ever wondered what goes on behind-the-scenes at The Hold Ipswich? Find out on one of our archivist-led tours. Explore our collections, hear about our work - and how you can discover your roots. If you've additional needs, please click Accessibility in our website footer. Book orlo.uk/vxcdJ
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
We've some great Yop & Tom calendars, planners, diaries, and more in The Hold Gift Shop. We're Good Journey members so if you're visiting by bus, train, or bicycle you get 10% off purchases of £5 and over. Show your gift shop receipt in our cafe for 10% off there orlo.uk/nRiOl
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Explore the history of Suffolk’s workhouses through original records in this three-week course with Julie Johnson. Learn to work with and interpret parish and workhouse material, from admissions and discharges to other key records. Ideal for family and local historians. Book orlo.uk/S73GG
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
An archivist led exploration of the history and archives of Suffolk's psychiatric hospitals and some of the individuals and patients who worked at or spent time in them. Book orlo.uk/53sAR
034
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Killing Eve's Sandra Oh plays the title role in writer Martin Crimp and director Indhu Rubasingham's razor-sharp reimagining of Molière’s classic dark comedy. Brilliant novelist Alice must confront the price of speaking her truth in a world that would rather silence her. Book orlo.uk/iyXYv
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
One of the star Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy exhibition items from our collections will be an early edition of The Tryal of Witches. It's an account of the witch trial at Bury St Edmunds in 1662 where Rose Cullender and Amy Duny from Lowestoft were accused of witchcraft orlo.uk/ZKm6Z
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Have you parked in The Hold car park? The pay and display machine has moved from the car park to inside the garden entrance. Please remember to use the machine or the RingGo app to purchase your parking stay.
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
Our current exhibition The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour will soon be blasting off for its next destination. If you haven't seen it yet, you've got until 19 September. Book orlo.uk/IODly
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
We've some great Storigraphic stationery at The Hold Gift Shop. We're Good Journey members so if you're visiting by bus, train, or bicycle you get 10% off purchases of £5+. Show your gift shop receipt for 10% off in our café too. The Hold Gift Shop is open 10am-5pm, Mon-Sat.
010
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
As part of the Beyond Labels: Celebrating Disability in Suffolk project - supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund - we're holding community archive workshops. The aim is to help groups with lived experience of disability looking after archives. Interested? Email archivists@suffolk.gov.uk
001
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
We're delighted to be working with the British Library to bring a selection of original items on loan to Suffolk for our Witches: Suffolk’s Dark Legacy exhibition. They will include Daemonologie written by King James I in 1597 which helped fuel the witch trials of the 1640s orlo.uk/b79WA
021
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
Find us opposite Ipswich Waterfront #HeritageOpenDays
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
Includes the chance to view highlights from our WI collections, advice on how branches can share their archives with us, and a tour. Book orlo.uk/dLn0S Speaking of the WI. Our friends at the New Wolsey Theatre are staging Calendar Girls the Musical until 26 Sept. Book orlo.uk/cdCaS
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
What better time than Heritage Open Days weekend to announce the Bishop's Transcripts (BTs) are now available to search and view on Ancestry free of charge at The Hold and Suffolk Community Libraries. They can supplement parish registers and, in some cases, fill gaps. More orlo.uk/fe1ri
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
It's Heritage Open Days weekend! If you're visiting us today or tomorrow, be sure to check out our current free exhibition - The Moon: Meet Our Nearest Neighbour. Mythology, science, Suffolk space stories. It's got it all. Book orlo.uk/rc5qh It runs until 19 September.
011
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
Our autumn-winter What's On guide is out! Read all about our forthcoming exhibition - Witches: Suffolk's Dark Legacy which includes fantastic loans never seen in the county before. Explore our talks, walks, workshops, and events programme. Get your copy at The Hold Ipswich or your local library.
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Do you have lived experience of disability or care for someone who does? Trevor recorded an oral history as part of our Beyond Labels: Celebrating Disability in Suffolk project. You can too. Your responses will become a valuable part of our collections. Email Rebecca.Harpur@suffolk.gov.uk
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
We've still some spaces for this six-week course with Stephen Poulter. Records generated by every parish church from the 17th to the 19th Centuries contain a wealth of fascinating stories. Find out how to unearth them. Book orlo.uk/n2rsW
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Document GB1/2/1/16, letters patent of Edward VI (1548) recently underwent conservation treatment. It had been severally mould damaged. It's been repaired and rehoused in a custom enclosure. Find out more about our conservation work at this weekend's Heritage Open Days. Book orlo.uk/bQg4M
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Join us Saturday and Sunday for Heritage Open Days. We're exploring stories found in our collections including The Diary of a Working Woman from Ipswich, The First World War Diaries of an Ipswich Man, The Diaries of a Registrar, and The Diaries of a Great Bradley resident. More orlo.uk/6KfpE
000
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
On this day in 1645 Mary Lakeland, also known as the Ipswich Witch or Mother Lakeland, was burned at the stake on Rushmere Heath. Find out more about her and the brutal Suffolk witch trials in Witches: Suffolk’s Dark Legacy. It runs from 16 October at The Hold. Book orlo.uk/eRQ8V
054
Suffolk Archives @suffolkarchives.bsky.social · 05/09/2026
Join us over the weekend of 12-13 September for a host of free activities celebrating #HeritageOpenDays. This year's theme is Everyday Histories. We're exploring the stories found in the personal diaries in our collections with talks, and hands-on activities like Suminagashi orlo.uk/qEG0B
082