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The Yorkshire Archaeological & Historical Society

Since 1863

For everyone interested in Yorkshire's past

  1. The Society
  2. About the Society

The Society's objects

Since its inception in 1863 much has changed but the Society's purpose remains the same:

“The examination, preservation and illustration of the History, Architecture, Antiquities, Manners, Customs, Arts and Traditions of the county of York…”

To this end we collect books and archive materials; we publish in print and digitally; we arrange lectures and other events, and we offer small grants to assist others who contribute to these objects.  Our members, both individuals and affiliated bodies, share a passion for Yorkshire’s past and, as volunteers, their commitment drives the Society forward.

Special interest sections of the Society organise lectures, excursions and projects, and issue their own newsletters. Please go the 'Sections' option on the main menu above to discover more about each section and their key officers.

The Society’s archives and rare or early books (published before 1850) and other printed materials, are now housed in the Special Collections department of the Brotherton Library, University of Leeds.   More recent printed works are available on the main shelves of the Library. For further information go to the Collections pages of this website.

Governance

The Society is a registered company and a charity and the members of its Management Board are its Directors and Trustees. Its key officers are listed below.

For all General Enquiries please email YAHS Admin or call 0113 245 7910 (Answerphone)

Society constitution and policies

'Hands-on' archaeology - a special note

We’re often asked where to find opportunities to engage in real, hands-on, archaeology. At the moment, YAHS does not itself run excavations, but among our members are many experienced archaeologists with expertise in all aspects of archaeological investigation.

We’d recommend joining YAHS sections and attending lectures if you would like to learn more about specific periods – Prehistory, Roman, Medieval – or about industrial history and archaeology. There you will come into contact with specialists in the field, and hear about work-in-progress across Yorkshire.

Some of our affiliates are however actively engaged in surveying, recording and excavation. To join their projects you may (for insurance and safety reasons) be asked to become a member of the group. See for example:

Other possibilities are sometimes on offer through community projects around the county.

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On this website

Whether you are pursuing advanced research or just want to engage with Yorkshire's heritage, here you will find:

  • an introduction to Yorkshire’s history and archaeology and the activities of our specialist Sections 
  • more detailed information about our Collections, where to find them and how to get the most out of them 
  • notice of lectures, meetings and special events throughout the county
  • our printed publications and how to subscribe to them, as well as back numbers and where to find them.