Barking and District Historical Society

1934

Founded as the Barking and District Archaeological Society. The initial meeting took place on 10th November with Robert Hewett in the chair. Lord Salisbury agreed to become its first president. There were 47 members in the first year. The society met in the Council Chamber of Barking Town Hall.

1939

Death of Fred Brand, first vice-chairman and later chairman. He was the Society’s first Life Member.

1939

James Oxley becomes chairman.

1940 January

The AGM decided that the existing officers and committee be re-elected for the duration of the war (World War II)

1940 February

Meetings of the Society moved from Eastbury House to Barking Town Hall because the bus service “cannot be guaranteed in the blackout”.

1942 January

AGM held at Barclays Bank Chambers, East Street, Barking

1952 July

Death of Robert Hewett, 2nd president.

1953

Colonel Ernest Loftus elected 3rd president.

1958

Kenneth Glenny elected 4th president.

1960

January Name of Society officially changed to Barking Historical
Society.

1964

The Society was represented at a meeting in Chigwell, hosted by founder member and Dagenham Borough Librarian J.G. O’Leary, which established the Essex Archaeological and Historical Congress.