The Österberg Collection is a unique resource about the legacy of Martina Bergman Österberg and also about the history of Dartford College of PE, Thames Polytechnic and University of Greenwich.
The Österberg Collection is now probably the most significant archive in the world relating to the history and development of women’s Physical Education. It charts almost every aspect of the pioneering College’s history and constitutes an important resource for the worldwide academic community researching themes such as Physical Education; Gender Studies; Women’s Studies; Health and Medicine; Education; Sports Studies; Local history of Dartford, Kent; Family history research. The Österberg Collection receives enquiries from the UK and across the World.
The game of netball was first developed at the College in Dartford, and it was at Dartford that the ‘gymslip’ was first prototyped and then developed as a practical and emancipatory item of female sportswear.
The Österberg Collection contains books, college uniform, committee papers, diploma badges, games equipment and clothing, letters, photographs and photograph albums.
Thanks to the hard work of our dedicated volunteers, we have almost 8,000 records in our online database.
Search The Österberg Collection Online Catalogue
See Kingsfield Book of Remembrance
See BÖU Magazines & News Sheets 1917-1959
Magazines and News Sheets from 1960 to the present
can be seen in the Members’ area.