One of the strengths of the HA is our broad interest in all areas of history. So many history themes and narratives focus on the big issues, but for many of us, history starts in the local. That is why we introduced Local History and Community Month for each May – it is an opportunity to promote, highlight and celebrate the local history that is around us at all times. Activities happen across the UK and include trips, library exhibitions and local lectures. It is a great way for groups to highlight local history and for local people to get involved.

Register your event

Each year the month goes from strength to strength, and a searchable calendar has been created where organisations can register their events.

• Register for free to add your local events
• If you've already registered, log in and submit your event here
• Download our free poster template for use in publicising your event.

And don't forget to share your local finds with us on Twitter/X and Instagram @histassoc using #HALHM24.

Students' local history stories

For 2024 our Student oracy competition The Great Debate had the question ‘Which historical place or person from your local area deserves greater recognition?’ In this debate young people around the UK researched and presented their thoughts on how to answer that question. The range of stories, information and research is remarkable and to celebrate the work of these young historians and the breadth or local history that we have in the UK we have published some of those stories here.

The students have introduced their choice in their own style and they have also told the story in their own way; we have proofed their written versions but only lightly edited them to preserve their own voices and arguments:

• Read the students' local history stories 

If you gave a talk for the Great Debate or know of someone who did and they have not submitted their talk for publication but would like to contact Paula.kitching@history.org.uk. 

Local History Teacher Fellowship outcome resources

See the primary and secondary outcome resources from our 2021-22 Teacher Fellowship joint programme with the British Association for Local History, focusing on integrating local history into the classroom through the stories of the people and places which make the history of your school's community exciting and unique.

See also our Local significant individuals resource for primary history.