Since its foundation in 1845, Brighton College has built a significant historical collection, which is now held in the purpose-built archive on Eastern Road.
This collection is not only important to the history and culture of the College, but also the historical Kemptown area and Brighton itself.
We are always looking to expand our collection. If you have items—from school mementos to written recollections—that could help us tell the story of life at Brighton College through the years, we woud love to hear from you.
Please get in touch with our Archivist, Mr James Harrison
Our archive is not just a place for historians—it plays an active role in school life. Pupils regularly engage with original material for projects, and our student-led Oral History Society conducts interviews with Old Brightonians across the country, preserving first-hand accounts for future generations.
Whether you are contributing to our collections, or simply curious to learn more, the archive is open to all who are interested in the remarkable story of Brighton College.
“We are so lucky to have such a strong and well-maintained collection of objects and documents in our archives, which tell the fascinating story of Brighton College.”
James Harrison - Archivist
Our digital OB News Article Library is another way that we preserve the vibrant history of our community. With thousands of articles, it is a searchable hub for all alumni stories, College news, obituaries, and profiles.
You can explore by name, house, date, or keyword—be it “sport,” “music,” or “letters”—to find the stories that matter to you.
Start exploring this archive of OB news on the Old Brightonians website. And remember, if you have any trouble finding what you are looking for, the OB Office is always happy to help.
Following a research project based in our archive, our Fourth Form pupils produced a book entitled Never to Return, telling the stories of the 149 Old Brightonians who lost their lives in the Great War.
This was followed by a similar project, to research the fallen Old Brightonians of the Second World War, culminating in our second book, Be Grateful, published to mark the 80th anniversary of the start of the conflict and remembering the OBs who died.
Brighton College Remembers - our online Roll of Honour recognises the sacrifices of so many, and commemorates the 149 former pupils and teachers killed on active service during the First World War, and the 173 killed during the Second World War.
Whether you are an Old Brightonian, a professional researcher, or a history enthusiast, we would be delighted to welcome you to our archive.
If you are interested in visiting, or would like to donate to our collections, please contact our Archivist, Mr James Harrison, at archives@brightoncollege.net