The Hampshire Archaeology and Historic Buildings Record

The Archaeology and Historic Buildings Record (AHBR), maintained by Hampshire County Council, is an index to the known archaeology sites and finds, historic buildings, designed and historic landscapes, parks and gardens and industrial monuments of Hampshire. It also holds records on archaeological fieldwork and excavations. Most of the information in the AHBR is held on a computer database which is linked to digital mapping. The database is supplemented by archaeological reports, articles and photographs, including aerial photographs.

• What is recorded on the AHBR?,
• What is the AHBR used for?,
• Can you help us?,
• Consulting the AHBR,
• Contact,
• Other archaeological databases in Hampshire.

What is recorded on the AHBR?

The AHBR includes sites and finds dating from the prehistoric to buildings of late twentieth century date. The records range from impressive monuments such as the Iron Age hill-fort of Danebury to the Bishop's Palace at Bishop's Waltham, to simple structures such as milestones. Many of the buildings recorded are listed, but often there is additional information to that found in the listing description. Information on finds range from artefacts recovered from excavations to single finds reported by members of the public.

What is the AHBR used for?

The AHBR is used to inform the advice which the County Council gives to planning authorities and developers on the implications of proposed developments. It also provides information for the management, interpretation and conservation of Hampshire's historic environment. The record is an important tool for academic and personal research and it also has a role in education, recreation and tourism, promoting interest and appreciation of Hampshire's diverse heritage.

Can you help us?

Although there are over 37,000 records on the database, there is still much to be discovered or understood. If you have undertaken research on the archaeology, landscape or buildings of your areas, or found a new site we would like to hear from you. If you have found an artefact you can report it to the Finds Liaison Officer of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) based at the Winchester Museum Service who will pass the information on to the AHBR.

Consulting the AHBR

The AHBR is a public database that can be consulted by appointment during office hours. Alternatively you can write, phone or e-mail us with your enquiry, giving as much information as possible concerning the nature of the enquiry (area, period, type of site etc) to enable the staff to deal effectively with your enquiry. Information can be sent out in the form of printouts, for which there may be a charge to cover staff time and any photocopying required. Enquiries from all areas of the community are welcome.

Contact

Historic Environmental Data Manager
Environment Department
Hampshire County Council
The Castle
Winchester
SO23 8UD

Tel: 01962 846736 or 846737 or 846513
Fax: 01962 846776
e-mail: historic.environment@hants.gov.uk

Portable Antiquities Scheme 01962 848269

Other archaeological databases in Hampshire

The AHBR covers the administrative area of Hampshire County Council. The Unitary Authority areas of Southampton and Portsmouth maintain Sites and Monuments Records (SMR) for their areas. Winchester City Council also maintains a SMR for the Winchester District. Please contact these SMR's directly for information on their areas.

• Southampton City Council - Tel:023 8083 3192 or e-mail w.barratt@southampton.gov.uk
• Portsmouth City Council - Tel: 023 9282 7261 or e-mail jenny.stevens@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
• Winchester City Council - Tel: 01962 848269 or e-mail museums@winchester.gov.uk

 

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