Sale particulars

Notices of house sales were often inserted in local newspapers or nailed on a house wall prior to a sale.

Of greater value are estate agents' or auctioneers' sale particulars which often give a description of the property, its rooms, grounds and outlying buildings.

There may even be an illustration or plan of the property attached as well. Where a whole estate was for sale this would include descriptions of the tenants' farms and cottages in addition to the owner's house. Our collection ranges from late 18th century to present day. Most of the collection at Local Studies is accessed by a card catalogue which is not available through the online catalogue. The online catalogue only includes items added to the collection since 1997.

Contact us on archives@sheffield.gov.uk to find out more, book in advance or order archival materials.

Location of records

An extensive collection is available at the Sheffield Local Studies Library in the Central Library, whilst a smaller selection is available at Sheffield Archives at Shoreham Street.

Ordering documents

There is normally no need to order sale particulars in advance at Local Studies but it may take a short time to bring them from the strong-rooms. There may be restricted access on Monday evenings and at certain times on Saturdays.

Copies

We can normally supply copies for private study purposes, subject to the usual copyright regulations. However, there may be restrictions on copying the larger format plans in order to prevent possible damage to the material.

Please contact us for further information.