About the Office
Archives are preserved for everyone and for all time.
Greater Manchester County Record Office (GMCRO) seeks to identify, collect, preserve and promote the widest possible public access to the documentary heritage of Greater Manchester. We are committed to promoting the use of archives so that people can engage with their heritage and enjoy the rewards that using archives brings. We hold over 4 miles of archives ranging from the 12th century to the 21st century, incorporating collections both of local interest and national importance.
The service was established in 1976 by the former Greater Manchester County Council and, since 1983, has been based in a textile warehouse in Marshall Street, close to Manchester city centre. It is administered by Manchester City Council on behalf of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA). AGMA consists of Bury, Bolton, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan. Many of these authorities also provide their own district-wide services.
We aim to:
- Collect and preserve Greater Manchester’s documentary heritage.
- Encourage use of the archives and resources we hold and those held by other archive and local studies services throughout Greater Manchester.
- Provide services for people of all ages and backgrounds.
- Provide a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all users of archives.
From 28 June 2010 the Record Office's Marshall Street premises also provide access to archive collections from Manchester Archives & Local Studies, to enable access to this material during the closure of Manchester Central Library for refurbishment.