Archival Collections
The RDS Archival collections offer a rich and unique resource for researchers and students of the social, economic and cultural history of Ireland.
The RDS Archival Collections represent the corporate archive of the Society. This unique resource, dates back to the Society’s foundation in 1731 and includes; the proceedings, minutes and correspondence of the RDS and its Council and Standing Committees, records and catalogues relating to its shows and exhibitions, including the RDS Spring Show and, material connected with Irish cultural institutions related to the RDS including, the National Library and Museum and the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin.
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The RDS Corporate Archive holds the business and administration records of the Society for the years 1731-1980.
The archive includes:
- Manuscript and printed minutes of the RDS (1731-1980)
- Minutes of RDS Council and Standing Committees (1800-1930)
- Material relating to the National Library and Museum of Ireland
- Material relating to the National Botanic Gardens
- Material relating to the Dublin Drawing Schools
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From 1886-2002 the RDS organised classical music recitals featuring some of the world’s top performers.
The RDS Concert Archive holds a wealth of material relating to these performances including concert programmes, posters and fliers, photographs and correspondence with the artists and their agents.
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The RDS has been closely connected with Irish agriculture throughout its history.
The RDS Agricultural Archive is a record of this enduring relationship and includes material such as:
- Minutes of the RDS Committee of Agriculture (1830s-1930)
- Minutes Royal Agricultural Society of Ireland (1841-1880)
- Catalogues of Irish and UK Farming Societies (1800s-1950s)
- Catalogues relating to the RDS Spring and Bull Shows (1831-1992)
- Rare and early printed books and pamphlets
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The RDS Science Archive reflects the Society’s involvement in science and technology from its earliest years.
The RDS Science Archive includes:
- Minutes of the RDS Science Committee (1810-1930)
- Correspondence of Irish physicist George Francis Fitzgerald
- Archive of the Irish Radium Institute (1903-1947)
- The Mollan Donation-early printed books on science by Irish authors
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A collection of monographs and journals published before 1820, with many rare and early European imprints, on a wide variety of subjects including; Irish history and topography, science, agriculture and the classics.
Access
The RDS Archival Collections are available for consultation by RDS Members and researchers by appointment.
Please contact: librarydesk@rds.ie +353(0)1 240 7254
