A report has highlighted how local volunteers are playing a vital role in protecting and sharing Sandwell’s rich history, giving their time to help uncover stories that connect residents to their past
The Sandwell Archives Annual Report has shown that over the last year, volunteers at Sandwell Archives have contributed more than 1,100 hours, supporting work that helps residents and researchers access local records and understand the people and places that shaped Sandwell.
Their support has helped the Archives service respond to more than 1,200 research enquiries, welcome hundreds of visitors into the search room, and make thousands of historic records available— ensuring Sandwell’s story is open to everyone.
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 report also highlights the cultural impact Sandwell has had on the world. From the face of Big Ben all the way to the Whitehouse – examples of our industry and hard work really are everywhere.”
Local case study: uncovering Smethwick’s global impact
One example of volunteer impact is the work to catalogue 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 headline moments are powerful stories 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 a rare glimpse into literacy, labour and life in industrial‑era Sandwell.
Thanks to volunteers, these stories can now be explored by residents, researchers and schools, helping local people understand the global significance of their own neighbourhoods.
Making Sandwell’s history accessible
Volunteers also support exhibitions, creative workshops, and community events, helping people of all ages discover Sandwell’s heritage in accessible and engaging ways.
This work reflects the beliefs at the heart of The Sandwell Story — celebrating the people who make Sandwell and recognising the everyday contributions that help build pride in place across the borough.
Sandwell Council thanks the volunteers who give their time to safeguard Sandwell’s shared history and ensure it can be enjoyed by future generations.