Collection: Frogmore Paper Mill

Collection-level records:

• Collection history (Collection development policy)

  The Michael Stanyon Archive was founded in 1999, based in Berkhamsted as part of the Dacorum Heritage Trust, before later moving in full to Frogmore Paper Mill. The archive has been run by volunteers since its inception, led by Michael Stanyon from 2001 until his retirement in 2019, with a paid collections officer then hired in early 2021. The archive has been housed in several rooms within the Frogmore site during its history, most recently moving to its present location in the summer of 2020.

  The collection has grown to include over 9000 items catalogued on the collections database, providing a rich source of information on a range of topics relating to paper­ making and its history, with a particular focus on the Gade Valley area and the significant individuals and organisations involved. The archive is an essential source for public exhibitions run in the Frogmore Paper Mill visitor centre and has also been a valuable resource for published research and researchers of family history.

  Source: Collection development policy

  Date: 2024

  Licence: CC BY-NC

• Collection overview (Collection development policy)

  The Apsley Paper Trail collection consists of over 9000 items primarily relating to the history of papermaking within the local area and the notable individuals involved in its history. A wide range of materials and objects are included in the collection, including documentary items, photographs, books, magazines, paintings, machinery, products, and the social history of the mills and their workers.

  The collection is primarily stored within the Michael Stanyon Archive at Frogmore Paper Mill. Further items are displayed across the Frogmore Paper Mill site and in the Tudor Room at Apsley Cottage.

  Major categories included in the collection are:

  4.1    Library

  Books relating to the history of paper-making and the local area. Particular interest is given to local mills and the companies associated with them, as well as key individuals. The library has been divided into the following categories:

  • Papermaking
  • Directories
  • Histories of Mills {Outside Herts)
  • Local History Material {Herts)
  • Miscellaneous
  • Hand Papermaking
  • Samples of books printed on JD
  • Printing
  • Watermarks

  The library also includes large-size company books such as ledgers, minute books, and rolls of long service.

  4.2    British Association of Paper Historians (BAPH)

  The archive collects published output from the BAPH and holds a complete collection of the Quarterly Journal. Articles in the journal have been listed individually on Modes. BAPH material is held under the umbrella entry APT 1851.

  4.3    Dickinson Fire Brigade

  Items relating to the Dickinson’s Fire Brigade. Many of these items are listed on Modes with the collection code APT DFB. Items are also collected relating to the fire brigade at Frogmore Paper Mill.

  4.4    Company Magazines

  A large number of internal company magazines were produced by John Dickinson Stationery under various titles and company names. These have been indexed on Modes under their individual titles.

  4.5    Products

  The archive includes many examples of paper and stationery products, with a particular focus on those produced by John Dickinson stationery companies and brands, and by the British Paper Company. This category also includes sample selections and related advertising material.

  A further sub-section of this category includes objects made during wartime production at the mills, with several items from wartime production at Apsley also included in the collection.

  4.6    Papermaking equipment

  Machinery, equipment and materials used in the process of paper-making or used by workers at the mills.

  4.7    Photographic Material

  A large selection of photographic material, ranging from portraits, aerial views of paper mill sites, advertising, machinery, workers, and the social aspects of the companies including sports and leisure. Photographs have partially been divided into the following categories:

  • APT DBM – Dickinson Buildings and Machinery
  • APT DAd – Dickinson Advertising
  • APT DP – Dickinson People
  • APT DSpSc – Dickinson Sports and Social

  4.8    British Paper Company

  Items relating specifically to the British Paper Company, based at the Frogmore Paper Mill site. Items are listed under the code APT BPC on Modes.

  4.9    Documentary material

  A large amount of documentary material is stored within the archive with various official documents, correspondence, patents, blueprints, maps, and company notices included.

  4.10     Trophies

  Several trophies and items relating to the Dickinson Sports Guild are included in the collection, with many on display within the main office.

  4.11     Textiles

  Several textile items are contained within the archive, primarily uniforms and flags.

  4.12     Media

  Media and film relating to paper making and paper mills. This includes cine reels and DVDs, and a large selection of digital photographs.

  4.13     Company Memorabilia

  This includes promotional and souvenir items relating to John Dickinson and related companies and products.

  Source: Collection development policy

  Date: 2024

  Licence: CC BY-NC