Some national newspapers were established as early as the seventeenth century. Local newspapers are, however, more likely to date back to the late eighteenth or nineteenth century.
In many places old editions of local newspapers were bound in volumes and have been kept in reference libraries. Although it may be possible to view these it is more likely that you will have to view the copies on microfilm and you will probably need to book a reader to view them. It may also be able possible to obtain printouts of pages or articles. Some local studies libraries will also have collections of newspaper cuttings, generally filed under themes.
Local magazines and journals were popular in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and often have interesting articles about buildings. Libraries may also have collections of articles from national magazines such as 'The Builder' relating to their local buildings.
Large reference libraries or local studies libraries are the most likely places. Some archive repositories may have printed material.
The British Library maintains a newspaper library at Colindale in London.
Some local and national newspapers keep back copies and may make them available. The Guardian recently opened a new public archive that includes an education service.
See also the section on Find Sources
Follow any of the links below for more information on basic sources and ideas on how to use them
Studying Your Locality : Historic Maps : Trade Directories : Government Commissions and Reports : Photographs : Census : Official Guides : Estate Agent Records : Plans : Taxes and Rating Records : Probate Inventories : Church Registers