What is firstBASE?

SHCG’s firstBASE is an online, searchable database of useful resources relating to a whole range of subjects, themes and objects dealt with by those who work with local and social history collections.

Ever had to research for an exhibition but don’t know where to start?  Has an object come in for identification but you have no idea what it could be?  Need help to answer a public enquiry?

firstBASE holds records, signposts, weblinks and downloads for a wealth of resources (books, articles, websites, significant collections, museums and organisations) that can help museum professionals develop their interpretation, and improve their identification, of social history objects.

Need advice about the care and management of your collection? 
Go to Collections Link: www.collectionslink.org.uk

firstBASE has been funded by SHCG and the Museum Association Esmee Fairbairn Collections Fund

Forresters collar from the Cardiff Story Museum collection

Cardiff Story Museum

Editor's choice

posted by Briony Hudson

Easter prompts thoughts of new growth, hope, blossom, bunnies and chicks, but it's probably best to admit that chocolate is also at the forefront of many people's minds! If you abstained for Lent, it apparently tastes even sweeter.

There are a number of suggestions on firstBASE relating to chocolate and confectionary if you want to uncover some historical background. But if you just want to indulge, we won't judge...

If you have suggestions for other resources, please help us to continue to make firstBASE the first stop for help interpreting and identifying our social history collections. If you've come across a useful resource on any topic, please share them by going to the Contribute section of the website.

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