Playing back the past. Part 1: deciphering old structures and the work of the RCHME Available to Purchase

Postulates the metaphor of a “video camera” to discuss the way old structures accumulate physical signs of the events through which they have existed. Outlines the nature and purpose of the RCHME, its constitution, size, and its objectives of: survey, curating and making available its archives, and recording of “threatened buildings”. Suggests why the past is regarded as significant and how historical research operates by piecing together evidence. Explains how old structures contribute their stored evidence to this process.