I noticed in the past that you could search TNA online and find certain files, and then on another day the same search wouldn't bring those files up, spending some time with this new search tool is fascinating.
Have to say that having used the new search tool for a while I really don't like it. NP is of the same opinion. That apart I recently had a problem (with both search facilities) which has been resolved by TNA.
I had accidentally come across the radio station at Winstone. Performed a search on Winstone and produced a vast list of hits, the overwhelming majority of which related to Winston Churchill!
I then tried excluding the word 'Winston' and the search revealed nothing whatsoever. This is because their search engines are fuzzy and look for words similar to that required, so INCLUDE Winstone, EXCLUDE Winston cancelled each other out.
The secret is to use double quotes, hence in the old engine: "Winstone" NOT "Winston" will do the trick, and in Discovery: Include "Winstone", Exclude "Winston" solves the problem.
Plan A is always more effective when the problem you are working on understands that Plan B will involve the use of dynamite
Hi guys am going to restart my Blackbushe research in a few weeks, after holidays, and need some help with the TNA. I have looked at all the relevant named archives but feel there is alot missing that should be there but I can not find. I am mainly looking for info on the bases construction like contracts and their dates, dates things were completed, contractors used, plus more detailed plans than those commercially available. I have searched in vein for anything to do with airfield construction in 1941/2. Has anybody ever found this sort of info at the TNA or RAFM?
Also where can I source, for commercial use for a sensible fee, aerial shots from the 40's and 50's?
Plenty of contractors and progress notes in the wartime 8AF records, usually via the local AM Works Areas.
I wonder why they don't show up in the RAF files.
I'm sure I've seen contractor details for an airfield but can't recall the file although it may be an FAA one. I did see contractor details for a range or two but I wonder if local County archives hold something on specific airfields. It seems strange that some stuff is kept whilst others are destroyed.
I did note that there were a lot of files on sewer outfall work carried out for the Air Ministry - No idea why but curiosity will take hold at some point
No Amount Of Evidence Will Ever Persuade An Idiot (probably not Mark Twain)
Was anyone at Kew today? In case you didn't see the news two huge water towers caught fire and the place was evacuated. I was due to go but still fighting off an infection.
This story also makes you wonder where they come from as I don't recall two water towers and I question the burning of water. No doubt the real story will surface in the coming hours!
No Amount Of Evidence Will Ever Persuade An Idiot (probably not Mark Twain)
Reportedly no damage to people or to the main building, thank goodness.
Water towers does sound rather unlikely though - more likely an air-conditioning plant room or something similar?
We use cookies to improve our website and your experience when using it. Cookies used for the essential operation of this site have already been set. By continuing to use this site you are agreeing to this. To find out more about the cookies we use and how to delete them, see our privacy policy.
