Archaeology Societies – East Midlands

The East Midlands region consists of most of the eastern half of the traditional region of the Midlands. It encompasses the combined area of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Northamptonshire and most of Lincolnshire. The Peak District and part of The Fens are included in the area.

East Midlands region (Creative Commons)

Historically, the region roughly corresponds to the ‘Five Boroughs‘  of the Danelaw, and prior to that was a centre for the Romans, with Lincoln at the junction of the Fosse Way and Ermine Street.

Derbyshire Archaeological Society

The society was formed in 1878 as an archaeological and natural history society. There are now four sections: the Archaeological Research Group, the Architectural Section, the Industrial Archaeological Section, and the Local History Section. All run fieldwork or visits and lecture programmes in addition to the activities of the main Society.

The Society is one of the major county bodies consulted by planning authorities on matters concerning archaeological sites and historic buildings. Membership is £18, providing access to events and a copy of the society’s Journal, published in the summer.

Leicestershire Archaeological and Historical Society

The Society was founded in 1855 ‘to promote the study of history, archaeology, antiquities and architecture of the county’.  The activities  centre around a lecture programme, publications, historic buildings and research. An annual Transactions is published (Volumes 1-20 are fully downloadable), which includes a summary of all archaeological activity which has taken place in the city and county in the previous year. The Leicester Historian and two newsletters are also published each year.

Individual membership is £20 and this entitles the member to receive copies of all the annual publications, to attend lectures and to take part in any activities organised by the Society. There are different rates for additional family members, students and institutions.

Leicestershire Fieldworkers

Leicestershire Fieldworkers Group has, since 1976, undertaken an award-winning programme of active archaeological fieldwork throughout Leicestershire. The Group, in conjunction with Leicestershire County Council Museums Service archaeologists, holds regular lecture meetings, has its own Newsletter, “The Fieldworker” and provides training courses for beginners. Individual membership is £6.

Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology

The society’s activities include:

• arranging lectures, conferences, local history fairs and site visits on many topics related to Lincolnshire’s history, archaeology and industrial archaeology;
• publishing quarterly and annual periodicals, and a series of more substantial and academic books as part of a longer term programme;
• running a bookshop at Jews’ Court – operated by volunteers – which carries an extensive selection of new books on Lincolnshire, a thriving second-hand department, and both new and old postcards;
• encouraging schools to promote Lincolnshire’s history and archaeology;
• facilitating research and field investigation;
• working with affiliated groups throughout the county.

Membership is £21, and in addition to the current offer for new members of a free book selected from a list, all members receive:

• a quarterly Bulletin of News items and details of forthcoming Events
• a quarterly magazine – Lincolnshire Past and Present
• an annual Journal – Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
• pre-publication information and a 20% discount on the Society’s wide range of publications
• opportunities to buy selected and collectable second-hand books
• an open invitation to all Events

Northamptonshire Archaeological Society

The society was formed in 1974 to promote the study and appreciation of the Archaeology and History of the county. It is a registered charity, with H.R.H. The Duke of Gloucester as its Honorary President. Whether experienced archaeologist or pursuing a long held interest, new members are always welcome.

The Northamptonshire Archaeology journal is published annually, containing detailed excavation reports as well as notes and summaries describing current fieldwork. Newsletters provide details of local events and society meetings. Membership is £10 and a range of publications is available.

The Thoroton Society of Nottinghamshire

The Thoroton Society is the county’s principal historical and archaeological society. It has a long pedigree, having been established in 1897. The Society’s aims are simple: to promote knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the history, archaeology and antiquities of Nottinghamshire, and to support local research and conservation.

Membership benefits include:

• A lecture series on topics relating to the county.
• Excursions to sites of historical and archaeological interest.
• The Society’s prestigious annual publication, The Transactions, containing the latest historical research.
• A regular newsletter.
• Occasional publications in the Record Series (additional Subscription required).
• An annual luncheon and other special events.
• Meeting like-minded people and getting involved in exploring Nottinghamshire’s fascinating past.

Useful Links

Derbyshire Archaeological Society
Leicestershire Archaeological and Historical Society
Leicestershire Fieldworkers
Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology
Northamptonshire Archaeological Society
The Thoroton Society of Nottinghamshire

Boston Spa Archaeology and Heritage Group
North East Lincolnshire Arhaeological and Local History Society
The Sherwood Archaeological Society
Rutland Local History and Record Society