Chapel Archives & Chapter Library
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About Us
Located within the Lower Ward, the Vicars’ Hall Undercroft houses the extensive and historic collections of books, manuscripts and archival material belonging to the Dean and Canons of Windsor.
For over six centuries, the archives were kept in the ancient treasury, the Aerary. The Chapter Library’s first books were kept chained to desks in the Chapel and later moved around the College as the collection continued to grow. In 1999 the Archives and Library were united in the present premises. This fifteenth-century building has been equipped to meet current standards of storage and consultation. It provides a centre for enquiry and research into all aspects of the College’s history.
The Archives comprise documents relating to the history of the Chapel, the properties it once owned and the Order of the Garter, which has its spiritual home at St George’s. These documents include accounts and deeds dating from as early as the 12th century; maps, plans and photographs; and collections of the personal papers and correspondence of individuals associated with the Chapel over the centuries.
The Library contains over 6,000 rare books, many still in their original bindings, mostly dating between the late-fifteenth century and mid-eighteenth century.
You can explore the contents of our Archives and Chapter Library through our catalogues and published articles, arrange a visit for research or a group tour and find out about opportunities to support the conservation of our collection through the Adopt a Book programme.
For more information please email [email protected]
Online Catalogue
A full catalogue of our archival holdings is available and searchable online.