The Friends of Teesside Archives was founded in September 2000. It is registered as a charity (No.1082369) and so is able to apply for grants.
The foundation of the society followed the dissolution of the County of Cleveland. With control transferred to the present four counties, there was a fear that they would close down the Archives. This would have been a tragic loss to the area and to a whole range of historical researchers.
The Archives have survived, and the Friends' first priority became the improvement of the equipment and working conditions. There were not enough microfiche and film machines in the Search Room, and those that were in use were past their best. There were also no computers. Although the staff gave a great service to the public, the facilities were proving a handicap.
Applications by the Treasurer to various companies and Trust Funds quickly brought in money to buy two new microfiche and film readers. Since then several more machines and new computers have been purchased.
Grants were also obtained for equipment used in the preservation of documents. This included such items as special racking, costing £1250, for the safe storage of maps.
Other aspects of the Society's activities are described in other pages of this site.
Jim Nicholson is the honorary President.
The society is run by the committee, which consists of the Officers and Ordinary members. It includes representatives of the Archives staff. The current membership is:
| Jim Nicholson | Chairperson |
| Marilyn Bramley | Secretary |
| Joan Heggie | Treasurer |
| Joan Heggie | Membership Secretary |
| Janet Baker | Project Manager (Staff) |
| David Tyrell | Archivist (Staff) |
| Jim Nicholson | Hon. President |
| Marie Abigail | |
| Yvonne Leck | |
| Marilyn Norton | |
| Linda Polley | |
| Mark Whyman | |
The Archives conservator, Helen Kendall, also attends committee meetings to provide relevant expertise.
Joining the society
Membership is open to everyone. The current membership fees are:
| Individual | £10 p.a. |
| Family | £12 p.a. |
Membership renewals are due annually on 1st June. If you wish to join, an application form can be downloaded from link at the bottom of the page (right-click on the link and select 'Save target as...'). Please fill it in and send it with your cheque/PO to :
Friends of Teesside Archives
c/o Teesside Archives
Exchange House
6 Marton Road
Middlesbrough
TS1 1DB