Publication of draft chapters

Photo of the clock tower and The George Inn at Mere by Ben Avery

In the past there has been a considerable lag between the writing of chapters for the VCH and their publication in the famous ‘red books,’ but we now publish all approved work online as soon as it is complete. 

The distinguishing quality of the VCH is authoritative history using local and national sources and fully referenced, where possible from primary sources. 

Although this is necessarily concise, it is the essential starting point for anyone interested in local history and for those who wish to study particular topics more fully. In order to achieve the high standards set by the VCH nationally, we employ professional historians who have experience of this type of research.

As research work progresses, draft chapters are published online by the IHR. 

You can view draft chapters on Brixton Deverill, Compton Chamberlayne, Hill Deverill, Kilmington, Kingston Deverill, and West Knoyle.