During our recent annual Heritage Open Day celebrations, we had the pleasure of inviting Bedford College alumnae to explore our archive collections.
One former student, Ann Fitton (nee Considine) came across copies of Bedford College’s Inner Circular student magazine from the early 1970s which included editions with Ann’s own artwork on the front cover. Ann studied History from 1971 to 1974 at St John’s Lodge which is where the History and Classics department at Bedford College was based.
Ann Fitton holding magazines on Heritage Open Day, 15th September 2024
“I remember sitting up late at night, in Lindsell Hall, armed with just a pencil, rough paper, a paintbrush and mapping ink, designing and illustrating the covers of Inner Circular. No computer graphics then, just freehand and trying not to spill the ink! I had the title “Art Editor” on the magazine staff and contributed other illustrations to various articles. Little did I know that one day, 52 years later, I would see my efforts beautifully preserved, in the Bedford Archives.” Ann Fitton
One of Ann's designs, Inner Circular from November 1971
The University archives hold copies of student magazines dating as far back as 1886. The magazines typically report on the activities of the clubs, societies and significant events, alongside literary contributions from staff and students. The magazines are a valuable resource for learning about the experience of our students over the years, as well as providing some interesting and eye-catching cover artwork, some of which is displayed in the archive reading room.
A selection of magazine covers on display in the archive reading room
To find out more about the archive head to: www.royalholloway.ac.uk/about-us/the-library/our-archives
