About

The Archive holds nearly 1,8000 catalogued items in a range of formats, including parchment, paper, bound volumes, photographs and engravings, together with a small but growing amount of audio-visual material. 

The administrative archives of Exeter College generally began with its foundation in 1314 and the Gwinear's deed of appropriation.  A handful of earlier 1200 documents are located within the early halls section of the College site.  All records that begin from the 14th century include charters, estate deeds, governance documents, benefaction books and account records. 

During the 16th century earlier records of domestic staff and accounts still survive, followed by the beginnings of Academic and Rector papers from the 17th Century.  During the 18th century the current Chapel was built and records from this period survive including plans, accounts and correspondence. 

From the 19th century to the present day the archives consist largely of the College's business and estate records with increasing quantities of records relating to students, Fellows, societies, sporting activities, and Exonian alumni. 

For more information about the Archive please look at the Archives website.  Archives - Exeter College (ox.ac.uk)   

Most questions about the past life of Exeter College can be answered by consulting the publication Exeter College the First 700 years by Frances Cairncross.  For a quick historical overview click on this link to the college website Exeter College's history - Exeter College (ox.ac.uk) 

Much information on and links to other sources for the history of the University and of Oxford generally can be found on the informative website of the Oxford Archivists' Consortium. The site also includes a helpful glossary of the idiosyncratic terminology often used in Oxford colleges.