Encouraging new writing in maritime history
The SWMHS Research Prize recognises and encourages high-quality new research and writing in maritime history.
The prize has been established through the generosity of Mike Duffy, for many years a Trustee of SWMHS and a past Head of the Centre for Maritime Historical Studies at the University of Exeter. It reflects his long commitment to serious maritime history, both inside and outside formal academic institutions.
SWMHS intends to offer two annual prizes of £250 each, subject to the quality of entries received. Prize-winning and commended work may also be considered for publication in the South West Maritime History Journal or other SWMHS publications.
Who can enter
The prize is open to people producing serious new work in maritime history. Entrants may include undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral researchers, early-career researchers, independent scholars, local historians, SWMHS members and non-members.
There is no requirement to be in full-time or part-time education, or to be affiliated with a university or academic institution.
The key test is the quality of the research and writing, not institutional status.
Eligible topics
The prize is open to maritime history broadly defined. Topics may include naval history, merchant shipping, fishing, ports and harbours, shipbuilding, seafaring, coastal communities, yachting and leisure sailing, maritime labour, personal and family histories, trade, migration, marine technology, maritime archaeology, heritage and wider maritime connections.
The topic does not have to be limited to the South West, although work relating to the South West or its wider maritime connections will be especially welcome.
What kind of work is eligible
Entries should be substantial pieces of maritime history writing, such as research essays, dissertation-style studies, edited dissertations, thesis chapters or equivalent independent research.
Entries should be based substantially on original research and should not rely primarily on secondary sources. They should show clear argument, evidence and proper referencing.
Normal length is 8,000-12,000 words, excluding footnotes and bibliography, with discretion to consider longer submissions where justified.
Repeat submissions will not be considered.
Judging
Entries will be assessed on originality, quality and range of evidence, use of primary sources, clarity of argument, writing quality, contribution to maritime history, suitability for wider readership and relevance to SWMHS aims.
The prize will be overseen by SWMHS Trustees, with advice from Mike Duffy and academic and independent maritime history advisers. Mike Duffy will chair the awards board. At least one judge should be from outside academia.
Conflicts of interest will be declared and managed by recusal. The judges may decide not to award a prize if entries are not of sufficient standard.
Publication
SWMHS will have first refusal for publishing prize-winning and commended work in the South West Maritime History Journal, subject to editorial review, suitability, available space and any necessary editing.
Publication may also be considered in other SWMHS formats, including monographs, Soundings, the website, or presentations at SWMHS History Days and similar events.
How to apply
Submission dates, entry form and detailed instructions will be published here.
Prospective entrants should read the Statement of Principles.
For enquiries about the prize, please contact us.
You can make a contribution to The SWMHS Research Prize through our website shop.