tna-discovery

Search and retrieve archival record metadata from The National Archives Discovery catalogue.

1|Updated Apr 30, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/danbri/forgetmenot --skill tna-discovery
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: tna-discovery
Source: https://github.com/danbri/forgetmenot/tree/main/skills/tna-discovery
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/danbri/forgetmenot --skill tna-discovery

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill solves the challenge of navigating the vast, complex landscape of UK archival records by providing a direct interface to The National Archives' Discovery catalogue.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Archival Search: Query over 37 million record descriptions from TNA and 2,500+ partner archives.
  • Hierarchical Browsing: Navigate from departments to series and individual pieces to understand the context of historical documents.
  • Use Case: If you are researching the drafting of 20th-century legislation, use this skill to locate specific Cabinet papers (CAB) or Prime Minister's Office (PREM) files that provide the necessary historical context.

Quick Start

Use the tna-discovery skill to search for records related to the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty within the FO 94 series and return the top five results.

Frequently Asked Questions about tna-discovery

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I search UK archival records from The National Archives Discovery catalogue?

To search UK archival records, query over 37 million record descriptions from The National Archives and 2,500+ partner archives to retrieve metadata including dates, custodial history, and hierarchical context.

Can I browse hierarchical archival structures to find specific historical documents?

Yes, hierarchical browsing lets you navigate from departments down to series and individual pieces, providing the necessary context to locate specific historical documents within the archival structure.

What kind of metadata can I retrieve from UK historical records using this approach?

Retrieving metadata from UK historical records yields record descriptions, covering dates, custodial history, and hierarchical relationships across record series and repositories nationwide.

How do I locate specific Cabinet papers for historical research?

Locate specific Cabinet papers by querying record series like CAB or PREM files within the catalogue to find descriptions providing historical context for drafting 20th-century legislation.

Does this search method cover archives outside The National Archives?

Yes, the search covers archives outside The National Archives by querying metadata across 2,500+ partner repositories, facilitating UK-wide historical research beyond single institution holdings.

What's the best way to query a specific record series like FO 94 for treaty records?

Query a specific record series like FO 94 by specifying the series within your search parameters to return targeted metadata results, such as the top five records related to the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty.