MT | Michael Thurlow Historical Research
Historical research process
Every historical commission begins with a question.
Historical research seeks to answer questions about the past. Whether the question relates to an organisation, industry, property, place, community, individual, event or object, the research process begins by understanding what the client wishes to know and why. A clearly defined research question provides focus, guides the research process and helps determine the most appropriate deliverable. Examples may include:
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When was a building constructed?
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Who founded an organisation?
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How did an industry develop?
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What role did a community organisation play within a town?
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What can historical records tell us about an individual's life?
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What happened during a significant historical event?
Once the research question has been defined, the historical research process can begin.
The ELEAD historical research process
Michael applies a structured and evidence-based approach to historical research. While every project is unique, most projects follow the same five-stage process:
Engage
Every project begins with a conversation.
This stage focuses on understanding the client's objectives, discussing the historical question or questions to be answered, defining the scope of the project and identifying the most appropriate deliverable.
A well-defined research question provides the foundation for effective historical research.
Evidence-based historical research
Historical conclusions should be based upon evidence rather than assumption, opinion or speculation. Michael applies an evidence-based approach to every project. He identifies, evaluates and interprets relevant historical sources before drawing conclusions or developing historical narratives. Historical evidence may include:
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Archival records
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Historical newspapers
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Government documents
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Organisational records
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Photographs
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Maps and plans
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Oral history interviews
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Personal papers and correspondence
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Published histories
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Other primary and secondary sources
The availability and quality of evidence varies between projects. Historical research seeks to identify the strongest available evidence and evaluate its significance within its historical context.
Research principles
Michael's approach to historical research is guided by five core principles.
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Research rigour: Historical conclusions should be supported by evidence and informed by careful analysis.
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Transparency: Research findings should clearly identify the evidence upon which conclusions are based.
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Accuracy: Historical research should seek to accurately represent available evidence and historical context.
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Independence: Research findings should reflect the evidence rather than predetermined conclusions.
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Professional communication: Historical research should be communicated in a manner that is clear, accessible and appropriate for the intended audience.
Qualifications and experience
Michael brings together more than fifteen years of historical research experience and seven years of professional journalism experience. His academic qualifications include:
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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
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Master of Research
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Bachelor of Journalism
His experience as a historian, researcher, published author and journalist informs every stage of the historical research process, from identifying sources and conducting interviews through to analysing evidence and communicating findings.
Historical research can help answer questions, preserve stories and create lasting records for future generations.
Whether investigating the history of an organisation, documenting an industry, researching a property, preserving community memory or undertaking a specialised historical investigation, Michael applies the same research rigour, analytical skills and evidence-based approach to every project.
Ready to begin your historical research project?
Complete the Contact Form to discuss your project.