About the University of Salford's Technical Heritage Collection
This collection tells the story of the institutions that paved the way for today’s University of Salford.
Covering the years 1896 to 1960, this collection brings together material from the University’s precursor institutions including the Royal Technical Institute, Salford and the Royal College of Advanced Technology.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating items such as student records, prospectuses, academic calendars, and rare publications. Together, they offer a unique glimpse into how technical education grew and adapted during Salford’s industrial boom and beyond.
In 1896, Salford Working Men’s College joined forces with Pendleton Mechanics Institute to create the Salford Technical Institute. Soon after, it gained royal approval and became the Royal Technical Institute, Salford. The opening ceremony was a grand affair, attended by the Duke and Duchess of York - later King George V and Queen Mary.
At the turn of the century, mechanical engineering, chemical works, textiles and construction dominated the industrial scene in Salford. Initially, students became part of one of nine departments - Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics, Building, Dyeing, Spinning and Weaving, Domestic, and Art. The calendars and prospectuses provide further details about the range of courses on offer and include those offered by the School of Art. The collection includes prospectuses for the later Royal College of Advanced Technology which show how courses changed over time.
1,240 students registered for the first session of the Royal Technical Institute in 1896-1987. and there were 19 members of staff. There are 1,505 individual record cards for students attending the institute between 1906 and 1918. These include details about when and what they studied and if they studied part time, the name of their employer and occupation.
A Junior Technical School was established in the Institute in September 1909 and a Junior Art School on similar lines in 1915. In the session 1921-1922, the name of the Institute was changed to the Royal Technical College, Salford, and it remained under the jurisdiction of Salford Local Education Authority until 1941. In November 1956, the College was designated as one of eight Colleges of Advanced Technology set up by the Minister of Education, and in 1967 it became the University of Salford.
Explore the collection
How can it be used?
The collection serves as a valuable resource for examining the progression of technical education and the institutional growth of the University of Salford.
The student record cards are an untapped resource for family and local historians, or researchers tracing the history of individuals who studied at the Royal Technical Institute.
Who might be interested?
Students and researchers in history, as well as anyone interested in exploring the institutional heritage and development of the University of Salford.
Types of materials
Student record cards, prospectuses and academic calendars, report books, and publications related to University milestones.
Related material
University of Salford Photographic Collection
Salford Estate Plans and Drawings Collection
Salford Parks Report Books Collection