About Us
THE BOURNE SOCIETY was formed in 1956 and takes its name from the intermittent streams that follow the lines of the A22 and A23 roads, meeting in Purley to flow northward into the River Wandle.
The Society began with a core of a dozen or so fully active members. There are now over 2000 members, and the Society is considered to be possibly the largest of its kind in the UK.
The objects of the Society are to extend the knowledge of local history in Caterham, Chaldon, Chelsham, Chipstead, Coulsdon, Farleigh, Godstone, Kenley, Purley, Sanderstead, Whyteleafe, Warlingham and Woldingham (all in North-East Surrey), and to ensure the preservation of records and objects of historical interest. The Society celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 2006.
The Society is able to help newcomers to satisfy their curiosity about the area, and to stimulate residents to search out further information. Through its publications, visits, speakers, meetings, placement of plaques, and archaeological work, the Society seeks to place the area in an historical perspective.
The Bourne Society is a registered charity, and as well as general work it has active special-interest groups in Photography, Pub History and Landscape History. Regular outings, including day tours and an annual "Heritage Tour", Members' Forums, Group Meetings and other events, are arranged. A wide range of publications is produced, including a quarterly edition of Local History Records, which is sent free to all members.
See the "Contact Us" page for details of how to get in touch with the Society.
