MT | Michael Thurlow Historical Research
Specialised history
Research and document specialised historical topics through rigorous historical research.
Some historical research projects do not fit neatly within a single category. They may focus on an individual, event, object or another specialised historical topic that requires a tailored research approach. Historical research can help uncover forgotten stories, investigate historical questions, establish provenance, preserve important memories and create lasting records for future generations. A Specialised history research applies the same rigorous, evidence-based approach used across all historical research projects whether researching a family member's military service, investigating a significant historical event, documenting the history of an artefact or undertaking a bespoke historical investigation.
Specialised types
Michael undertakes research relating to:
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Individuals and biography
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Family history and genealogy
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Military history
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Historical events
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Disasters and emergencies
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Crimes and criminal cases
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Significant objects and artefacts
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Collections and museum objects
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Cultural and social history
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Commemorative and anniversary research
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Bespoke historical investigations
Typical research sources
Research may include the following sources depending on the nature of the project:
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Historical newspapers
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Government records
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Military service records
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Family history records
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Birth, death and marriage records
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Oral history interviews
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Photographs and audiovisual materials
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Museum and archive collections
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Personal papers and correspondence
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Court records
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Maps and plans
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Published histories and secondary sources
Research questions and deliverables
Every historical research project begins with a question. The nature of the question influences the scope of the research and the final deliverable, for example:
The final deliverable will depend on the research question, availability of historical evidence and client objectives.
Case studies
The following case studies illustrate how historical research can help answer specific questions and produce deliverables tailored to client needs.
Why commission a Specialised history?
Specialised histories can:
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Answer specific historical questions.
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Preserve important personal, family and community stories.
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Establish provenance and historical context.
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Document significant individuals, events and objects.
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Support commemorative and anniversary projects.
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Create valuable historical records for future generations.
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Provide evidence-based historical insights and conclusions.
Ready to explore your historical question?
Complete the Contact Form to discuss your project.
A family has inherited a collection of military medals, photographs and documents belonging to a relative who served during the Second World War. While the family knows some details about his service, many questions remain unanswered. They would like to better understand his military career and preserve this information for future generations.
Their fundamental research question is "What can we learn about our relative's military service and wartime experiences from the available historical evidence?"
The family receives a Specialised History Detail Report. This includes a timeline of military service, analysis of service records, photographs, supporting documentary evidence and a written narrative which documents the individual's wartime experiences and military history.
