The NAS is here to help members get involved with nautical archaeology whether by making members aware of ongoing projects, running courses on various aspects of a project or giving help in furthering projects. 

Archaeology has changed from a dry & dusty collection of artefacts sat in a cabinet in a dim & dusty museum to interpreting how people lived and worked in a bygone age and bringing it back to life.   This involves as much time spent researching the subject as it does working on the actual project. 

We are lucky in the UK by having a treasure of archives, in particular the National Archives at Kew (London) where documents are available from the Royal Navy, the Board of Trade, High Court of Admiralty and many other sources which can give colour and information to many maritime projects.

During the winter months a group of NAS members gather at The National Archives to garner information about varied projects.  Some work on their own projects, others photograph documents for NAS members who cannot get to London easily.   The day is as much a social event as a working party, coffee & lunch breaks being good times to catch up, to discuss what the members are involved in and to get to know each other.  Having a friend to help read the 16th, 17th 18th century handwriting is always useful and NAS members who are visiting for the first time are welcomed.

Members who need or want information which is available at Kew only need to ask for the group to look it up.  High profile projects such as Erebus & Terror have benefited alongside one ship’s registration document copied for an individual. 

Your project is not discussed without your permission, but we do ask that you mention the NAS Members’ Research Group when you write up and publish, or in your presentations.

If you want to join or to ask for some research, contact the NAS office.