John Saltmarsh (historian)

John Saltmarsh (1908 – 1974) was a British historian, archivist, and academic specializing in the history of Cambridge University and its colleges, particularly King's College. He is best known for his meticulous research, detailed local knowledge, and publications that shed light on the social, economic, and architectural development of Cambridge.

Saltmarsh served as a Fellow of King's College, Cambridge, and as Keeper of the Archives. His work was characterized by a deep engagement with primary source materials, including college records, estate papers, and building accounts. He meticulously documented the changing landscape of Cambridge, focusing on the interplay between town and gown, and the impact of university development on the local community.

His significant publications include works on King's College and its history, as well as studies of specific buildings and areas within Cambridge. While much of his work was published in academic journals and college publications, his scholarship has become foundational for understanding Cambridge's historical evolution. His meticulous approach to archival research and his commitment to documenting the lives of ordinary people within the university setting continue to inspire historians of Cambridge.