THE BUS ARCHIVE

Overview

The Bus Archive is a nonprofit organisation in the United Kingdom, registered as a charity with the number 1177343. It is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and dissemination of historical records, photographs, publications, and publicity materials related to the road passenger transport industry. This includes buses, coaches, trolleybuses, and trams.

Mission and Activities

The charity aims to provide these resources freely to the public for the purposes of research and education. Its collection encompasses a wide range of materials, including company minute books, technical drawings from vehicle manufacturers, timetables, and extensive photographic archives. The archive combines resources previously held by the Omnibus Society and the former Kithead Trust, with some collections dating back to the Victorian era.

Research Centres and Collections

The Bus Archive operates three research centres, each housing unique materials that are not available elsewhere. The collection is spread across locations, with parts held in Droitwich, Walsall, and an additional London collection maintained at the LT Museum store in Acton, West London. An online searchable catalogue is under development to enhance accessibility for researchers.

Volunteer Support and Funding

The charity relies heavily on volunteers who contribute to its operations. Volunteers can participate in various roles, both on-site and remotely, and receive comprehensive training to support their involvement. Donations are crucial for the organisation, with each £5 contributed helping to purchase specially designed archive boxes. The charity aims to acquire at least a thousand such boxes annually to ensure the proper preservation of its expanding collection.

Governance and Registration

As a registered charitable incorporated organisation in England and Wales, The Bus Archive is governed under the charity number 1177343. It operates in accordance with charitable regulations, focusing on the preservation and promotion of historical transport heritage.

[1] https://www.busarchive.org.uk [2] https://www.busarchive.org.uk/search.shtml [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/5108145/charity-overview [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/5108145/full-print [5] https://www.omnibus-society.org/branches/london-historical-research-group/research-resources/