History

A military vehicle in Dorset Picture: Dorset Council

How Dorset coped in the Great War

November 11 is VE Day, the anniversary of Europe declaring victory in the First World War. This month, the…

Your ties to Swanage and the surrounding area may be revealed among a treasure trove of museum documents and photographs

Explore archives for family history

Swanage Museum will be holding an open weekend at the Swanage History Centre on November 5 and 6, in…

King John was said to be displeased with Wareham, and took it out on the town’s coat of arms, but the story may not be true

Did king really scorn the town?

The Wareham Arms, as reproduced on the Corporation Seal, are Gules, a crescent surmounted by a star between three…

A watchkeeper looks out to sea. PHOTO: NCI

Shipwreck is of enormous historical significance

I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s been fascinated by the discovery of the Mortar Wreck in Studland…

The Queen at Bovington Tank Museum in 1997. Photo by Bovington Tank Museum

Iconic monarch lived up to promise of lifetime devoted to public service

“May flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest,” said the visibly grief-stricken new king, Charles III, on September…

Flying Scotsman Corfe Castle. March 2019 Andrew PM Wright

Rolling, rolling, rolling: railway plays host to legendary Scotsman

THE world’s most famous steam engine is making a visit to Swanage. Close to celebrating its centenary, the record-breaking Flying…

Mortar Wreck diver looking at decorated gravestone

One hull of a find: rare medieval shipwreck is given special status

The remains of a medieval ship made from trees felled more than 750 years ago is one of three…