About the Society

The Society was founded in 1951 primarily for the purpose of actively pursuing the study of the history of Lymington, publishing the results in ‘Papers’ and providing lectures for the general public.

From its foundation it was known as the Lymington Historical Record Society. The emphasis changed with the passage of time and the society was given a new name in 1983 - Lymington and District Historical Society - reflecting a greater emphasis on a variety of lectures covering not only Lymington but much of the surrounding area.

The publishing side gradually declined although Bob Coles (1939-2000), the noted historian of Lymington, still published well researched and valuable studies under the imprint of the Lymington and District Historical Society. These included, in 1996, the well illustrated "A History of Communications in South-West Hampshire" in three volumes and an important study of properties entitled "Messages and Mansions around Lymington and the New Forest" (1998).

Published papers are listed in Jude James' "Lymington; An Illustrated History" (2007), on page 188. Photocopies of many other studies can be purchased from the Society.

The Society is run by a small and active committee under the chairmanship of Caroline Birch. It has an honorific President, the first in this post was William Whitaker (1911-88) of Pylewell Park, followed by Arthur Lloyd (1917-2009) and, currently, Jude James.

Whilst we are not an historical record society and generally are not able to undertake research for applicants, we do have a wealth of local knowledge and may be able to assist with short queries. Other requests may be passed on to alternative resources. See also our links page.

We are always ready to welcome new members or guests who may like to sample a meeting or two.

Membership is currently £10 per person and £5 for students. Guests are welcome at £3 for each meeting.

Lectures

Here is a small selection of lecture subject titles over the years:-

Old Lymington—A journey through the ages
History of Hordle as revealed by Parish Documents
Lymington and the New Forest during the Civil War
History of Yachting in and around Lymington
Hurst Spit and Castle
The Adams Family of Bucklers Hard
New Forest Common Rights and their development
Romsey through the Ages
Lymington Cricket and Football Clubs
Local Smuggling in Georgian Times
History of Beaulieu Airfields
Foreign Regiments in Lymington
The Story of Highcliffe Castle
The Normandy Invasion and Mulberry Harbour
Brockenhurst and its Village School
History of the Women’s Land Army
T.E. Lawrence in Hythe
Netley: the Memory of a Military Hospital
Christchurch Castle
Lyndhurst: a Short History

The society seeks to increase its membership for the benefit of the local community and to become increasingly active in the promotion and study of our fascinating local history. To join the Lymington & District Historical Society click here

Would you like to enroll as a member?