War and Colonial Department and Colonial Office: Gambia, Original Correspondence

CO 87

1828-1951

This series contains original correspondence relating to Gambia.

Bound volumes arranged chronologically within the following subject headings: Despatches (letters of the Governors), Offices (letters of government departments and other organisations), and Individuals (arranged alphabetically). With two case volumes. Each volume with a contents list, or a précis of each letter giving name of correspondent, date of letter and subject matter. From 1926 correspondence is arranged in subject files.

For correspondence before 1828 see CO 267

For correspondence after 1911 see also CO 554

Public Record(s)

English

270 volume(s)

Subject to 30 year closure unless otherwise stated

Topics

International

Africa

After much dispute with the French, Gambia became a British colonial possession in 1783 under the administration of the African Company. In 1821, when the company was dissolved, Gambia came under the government of the Sierra Leone colony until 1843 when it became a separate colony. In 1866 Gambia became part of the West African Settlements colony until 1888 when it was made a separate colony again. The Gambia became an independent state within the Commonwealth in February 1965 and a republic on 24 April 1970.