The Canterbury Cathedral Archives hold a wealth of manuscripts, photographs, maps and other records dating back to the late 8th century. These make up an extraordinarily rich resource. Their collections are varied, and include manuscripts, photographs, maps, plans and seals. The records of the Dean and Chapter date back to the late 8th century; there are some 20 Anglo-Saxon charters which date from before the Norman Conquest. Taken together, these are the Cathedral’s oldest possessions, which predate any of the buildings seen standing today. The Dean and Chapter archive is particularly strong for the medieval period. It tells the story of the Cathedral, its buildings, its estates and its community right up to the present day. The Archives have further online records available on their website.
The Cathedral Archivist is Mrs Cressida Williams.