The Essex Society for Archaeology and History

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ESAH Winter 2007 Newsletter
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 The Essex Society for Archaeology and History is the county's major society for those interested in any aspect of the past. To be a member is to join a long line of enthusiasts dating back to the 40 or so who met at the old Town Hall, Colchester in 1852 to form a society (then called the Essex Archaeological Society) "for the purpose of reading papers, exhibiting antiquities, discussions etc."

The methods and interests of archaeologists and historians have changed with the times, and the Society has adapted accordingly, but its aims would still be recognised by its founders. They are :

  1. to bring together those who share a common interest in Essex's past

  2. to publish new discoveries in the archaeology and history of the county and

  3. to support and encourage interest in these topics.

The Society's record is a proud one. The collection formed by the early members of the Society formed the basis of the Castle Museum, Colchester. Distinguished past Presidents have included John Horace Round, the great mediaeval historian, and Francis Galpin, the leading authority on the history of music and musical instruments Well over 10,000 pages of reports have been published on archaeological sites and numerous aspects of the County's history.

Today the Society offers its members:

  • A regular programme of excursions with expert guides to houses, churches and other historic sites, many not normally open to the public

  • Lectures and seminars

  • Access to the large and growing library at the Essex University, Colchester covering the archaeology and history of Essex, and also extensive runs of the journals of other county and national archaeological societies

  • Essex Archaeology and History, the Society's annual journal with well over 100 pages of articles and notes on new discoveries and excavations in the county

  • A regular Newsletter, Essex Archaeology and History News, to keep you in touch with subjects of local archaeological and historical interest, including details of courses run by the University of Essex

  • The opportunity to be directly involved in research, for example with the Essex Place Names Project

  •  Contact with like minded people, both amateur and professional, at the Society's educational and social events

Registered Charity No: 213218