Scoping of the archive held by the Museum of the Order of St John (360G-Wellcome-206321_Z_17_Z)

The Museum of the Order of St John needs to better understand the content of the archive and its conservation needs, in order to make this resource accessible and to raise the profile of this valuable body of information. The Museum requests a grant for a scoping project which will result in a report detailing its archival holdings, will help to clarify the steps required to realise the archive’s research potential and will enable the Museum team to explore ways in which to make this archive more accessible. It is our intention to go on to apply for the Research Resources grant, supported by the findings of the scoping project, in order to fully catalogue and conserve the archive so that we may encourage and facilitate research visits, and better respond to research enquiries. The report will also be a valuable tool in seeking advocacy and support for improved standards and greater aspirations for the archive within the wider organisation. An informed professional opinion will articulate a more compelling argument for the value of this project and will encourage the continuing support of key stakeholders.