About the Society for History of Natural History

The Society was founded in 1936 by a small group of scientists, librarians and bibliographers centred on the British Museum (Natural History) in London. The Society is still closely associated with the Museum, now the Natural History Museum, which contains the national collections of natural history specimens and has a strong tradition in the historical study of these collections. For more information visit our brief history webpage.

Since its modest beginnings, the Society has grown in membership and international standing. It is known for its friendliness and its meetings combine intellectual excellence with opportunities for informal exchange of ideas. It is a focal point for the history of all aspects of natural history. This includes art, literature, biography and bibliography as well as investigative historical studies.

The Society’s affairs are conducted by a Council of members who meet regularly throughout the year. Individuals on Council take responsibility for the various functions that the Society performs. Details of the responsibilities of each member of Council are listed in Schedule 1 Portfolios of Council Final.

The Society has a thriving international membership with dedicated Representatives in China, Central Europe, Ireland, Italy, North America, Poland, Spain, and South America. The representatives organise local meetings and with their assistance the Society holds international meetings.