Archive and Library

Archive and Library

The current priority for the museum curatorial staff is to research and collect data to support the interpretation element of the HLF funded “ Alliance project” . In order to prioritise resources, it has been found necessary to discontinue all historical research visits to the archive and library until further notice. However the archivist will endeavour to respond to any email requests whenever project commitments allow. For more information on the archive please scroll down.

Alliance “Personal Testimony Project”

The museum is seeking former crew of the submarine Alliance to take part in a “personal testimony” project. The aim is to collect personal recollections to help convey to the visiting public what life onboard Alliance was really like.

Part of the forthcoming Heritage Lottery funded “ Alliance” restoration project will involve new innovative methods of interpretation. To make sure this is as accurate as possible, curatorial staff will be collecting information that will provide future generations with a unique resource of recorded first hand testimony. This will be collected directly from the men who served on the submarine.

Former submariners, officers or ratings, who served on HMS Alliance and who wish to register their interest in taking part in the project are asked to contact George Malcolmson 023 92510354 ext 226 or Debbie Corner ext 234 from the“personal testimony project team” (without obligation). Send us an email.

About the Archive and Library

The bulk of the Royal Navy Submarine Museum Archive collection was formed from original documents and papers transferred from Flag Officer Submarines Historic Document Section and drafting records covering the period 1918-1969 from the Submarine Drafting section in HMS Centurion. The Wardroom Officers Mess Library was also transferred to the museum when HMS Dolphin, the submarine depot, was decommissioned in 1999. The museum has continued to add to this collection by accepting donations that include: personal documents, diaries, memoirs and other submarine related books and articles. In addition there is a modest sound and video archive.

The Archive & Library is currently housed in the Administration building (Torbay Block) adjacent to the main museum entrance and car park. Research visits are by prior appointment only. Please be aware that photographs are kept separately from the main Archive & Library.

If you want to book an appointment to visit the Archive & Library or to make a research enquiry; then please complete the online form.

If you are unsure of how to frame your request for information you can speak to the Archivist before submitting a form. The UK contact telephone number is: 02392 510354 ext 226.