Volunteers at Sandwell Archives have contributed more than 1,100 hours over the past year, playing a vital role in protecting and sharing the borough's rich history, according to the Sandwell Archives Annual Report.
Their work has enabled the Archives service to respond to more than 1,200 research enquiries, welcome hundreds of visitors into the search room, and make thousands of historic records available to residents and researchers.
Smethwick glass collection brings global stories to light
One significant project highlighted in the report is the cataloguing of the historic Chance Glassworks collection from Smethwick. With volunteer support, more than 1,600 items from the Chance Brothers archives have been catalogued and made accessible to the public.
These records reveal how glass made in Smethwick helped shape world-famous landmarks including the Crystal Palace, the clock face of Big Ben, and buildings as far away as the White House in Washington.
Alongside these major projects are records of everyday working life in the 19th century — including early records of women workers and documents where employees signed their name with an "X", offering insight into literacy, labour and life in industrial-era Sandwell.
Community engagement and accessibility
Volunteers also support exhibitions, creative workshops, and community events, helping people of all ages discover Sandwell's heritage in accessible and engaging ways.
Councillor Michael Cooper, Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Neighbourhoods, said: "Our volunteers play an essential role in bringing Sandwell's history to life. Their time, skills and enthusiasm help make our archives accessible to everyone, while preserving the stories that shape our communities and sense of place."
The Sandwell Archives Annual Report is available to view online.
