History & archive collections
Our collections include formal City of Sydney archive records and the civic collection. They also include our history websites and local history resources at our libraries.
History & archive collections
City of Sydney ArchivesHistory & archive collections
Civic collectionHistory & archive collections
History websitesHistory & archive collections
Books about Sydney’s historyLibrary collections
Local history collection
Library & information services
How to use our archives collection
The City archives holds more than one million records from 1842, when the Council was established, to recent years.
City of Sydney News
News
Learn about Sydney’s Aboriginal history as you walk Country Markers highlight significant people and places along the harbour foreshore.26 September 2022News
In pictures: Queen Elizabeth II in SydneyTo mark the passing of Her Royal Highness, we look back at her visits to our city.9 September 2022News
‘Old, insanitary and ruinous’: Historic photos reveal demolished Sydney The changing face of the city captured from 1900 to 1931.7 September 2022News
4 fast facts about Sydney’s aldermen As elected officials, they acted as the intermediary between the public and local government, representing residents and ratepayers.2 September 2022News
Celebrating World Letter Writing Day: Notes from the City of Sydney ArchivesExplore the stories and beauty of decorative 19th and early 20th century requests, demands and complaints.1 September 2022News
In pictures: Crown Street through the centuriesAs we plan a future transformation for Crown Street, see how the route evolved over 200 years.31 August 2022News
Historic Haymarket landmark returned to its former glory Learn more about the restoration of the heritage-listed Corporation Building and how it serviced Sydney’s markets.5 August 2022News
In pictures: Sydney playgrounds in the 20th centuryDid you know that playgrounds weren't a thing before the 1930s? Swings and slippery dips represent a shift in how society saw kids and their place in the world.2 May 2022News
Explore the Hall of Service on Anzac Day Hidden underground, this space contains the stories of World War I enlistees from across NSW.21 April 2022News
10 ways to step back in time this Heritage FestivalImmerse yourself in a world of curiosity until 31 May.8 April 2022
History
Sydney is a vibrant city and it has an ancient heartbeat. Discover the rich, vivid history of Sydney from early Aboriginal life through to the modern global city.