House of Lords records to be made available to public by National Library of Scotland

This article originally appeared on Culture24.

Causes of death in 19th century House of Lords among papers to be revealed at National Library of Scotland

In a week when the House of Lords continues to take the headlines, many of its previous incumbents are about to face less critical scrutiny. Papers relating to the chamber held at the National Library of Scotland, described as offering “unprecedented” insights across 3,000 “fragile” historic volumes, will be made available to the public online.

The Library’s collection of stories from the 19th century House is one of very few surviving archives of its kind. “More British Prime Ministers served in the Lords in the 19th century than in the House of Commons, despite the progressive dwindling of the influence of the upper chamber,” points out Dr John Scally, Scotland’s National Librarian.

“This is a fascinating period in our history and digitisation will make these important papers available to our users on any screen, anytime, anywhere.”

Dr Scally says the project, led by the library alongside the global technology company ProQuest, is part of a commitment on the part of curators to open up little-seen parts of the collections to as large an audience as possible. Registered users of the library will be able to see the digitised papers, which have only been available to researchers until now.

The House of Lords papers

• Encompass wide areas of social, political, economic and foreign policy
• Provide evidence of committees and commissions during a time when the Lords in the United Kingdom wielded considerable power
• Include many bills which originated and were subsequently rejected by the Lords – rich indicators of the direction and interests of the Lords that have been largely lost to researchers
• The final version of a bill passing from Commons to the Lords will be included in the newly-digitised papers

Three museums to see political history in:

Old Parliament House, Powys
This Grade I-listed building hosts a new interactive and informative exhibition on the life, times and vision of Owain Glyndŵr - rebel leader, national hero and self appointed prince of Wales at the beginning of the 15th century.

People's History Museum, Manchester
Popular and impressive city museum with main galleries, a changing exhibition space and the Community Gallery, as well as interactives and activities for visitors of all ages.

People's Palace and Winter Gardens, Glasgow
Spectacularly picturesque social history museum telling the story of the people and city of Glasgow from 1750 onwards through paintings, prints, photographs, historic artefacts, film and interactive features.

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk/history-and-heritage/art532853-house-of-lords-records-to-be-made-available-to-public-by-national-library-of-scotland