Our Story
The Farnham & District Museum Society (FDMS) has championed keeping Farnham’s fascinating history alive since its establishment in 1963. Its origins as a local history society and museum supporter can be traced back to earlier endeavours to preserve and celebrate Farnham's history.
Early Inspirations
The idea of a museum in Farnham first surfaced in 1858 during a meeting of the Surrey Archaeological Society. Although a temporary museum was created for the event and attracted over 2,000 visitors, it did not lead to a permanent establishment. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the discovery of Palaeolithic remains and the growing interest in Farnham’s archaeology led to the formation of the Farnham Field Club.
This club’s 1908 exhibition catalysed a desire to establish a permanent collection showcasing the town’s historical treasures. By 1926, a small voluntary museum had taken root in the Farnham Institute, a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its history.
Despite numerous challenges and limited support, the museum continued in various forms until 1939, when the Farnham Prehistoric Museum opened at The Chestnuts. Tragically, the outbreak of World War II halted its progress.
The Dream of a Museum is Realised
The community’s dream of a permanent museum made a significant stride forward in 1959 when Canon J.M.C. Crum’s family offered his Grade I listed home, Wilmer House, to the town at a favourable price. Seizing the opportunity, Surrey County Council purchased the house and transformed it into the Museum of Farnham, which celebrated its opening on 26 April 1961. This landmark event was a testament to the years of community and local council efforts to establish a dedicated space to keep Farnham’s history alive.
Farnham’s History Society is Born: Farnham Museum Society
Recognising the need for ongoing support and advocacy, the Farnham Museum Society was established in July 1963 with four key objectives:
- Stimulate interest in the Museum
- Organise activities related to local history, archaeology, natural history, art, and other relevant subjects
- Secure exhibits for the Museum through purchase or donation
- Publish studies and reports on the Society’s work
Leadership, Membership and Growth
The Society was soon renamed Farnham & District Museum Society to reflect the broader interests of its members and its leadership of nationally significant archaeological excavations at Neatham. Over the years, the Society has been blessed with many contributors who have acted as presidents, chairs, committee members, volunteers and members, all of whom have come together to contribute to the Society’s culture, growth and success.
SPANNING THE YEARS
Volunteering
Over the years, the Society has been blessed with many contributors who have acted as presidents, chairs, committee members, volunteers and members, all of whom have come together to contribute to the Society's culture, growth and success.
PROGRAMMES OF EVENTS
Meeting
Since its inception, the Society has organised a popular programme of events, including local history talks, seminars, exhibition private viewings, book launches and visits.
Publications
Several prominent local archaeologists and historians have been involved in publishing important research for the Society. In 1965, the Society launched its local history newsletter, which evolved into a journal published every quarter since under various names. It has also published over 35 publications. Topics have spanned all periods, including local history, archaeology, natural history, and art. The Society has published most of its works, some in collaboration with the Museum, publishers, or other history-related societies.
Events Programme
Since its inception, the Society has organised a popular programme of events, including local history talks, seminars, exhibition private viewings, book launches and visits. These events, notably the well-attended talk series, have featured speakers including Society members, professional historians, authors and academics and have covered many historical topics and periods. They have allowed members to explore local history and socialise in a welcoming environment. For more information, click here.
The Manning Library
Members of the Society created the library at the Museum of Farnham in 1965, largely from their donations. It has since grown into a more extensive reference library of several thousand books and archives through accessions from later Society members, other libraries and items received or funded by the Museum. The library takes its name from Elfrida Manning, a former member of the Society and museum advocate. The museum now manages the library. Please click here for details.
The Evolution of the Museum
The Museum itself has evolved significantly. The first curator and his assistant worked tirelessly to establish the museum’s reputation. The curators that followed expanded the museum’s services and space and oversaw significant structural improvements and the redesign of museum displays. In 1992, after a major refurbishment, the Museum reopened with new exhibits. This earned acclaim and a special commendation from the European Museum of the Year Award 1993. The Society has supported the museum throughout its history, both financially and through the efforts of its members.
Recent Developments and Future Directions
In 2008, the Museum’s Garden Gallery and education room were opened, significantly enhancing the Museum’s capacity to serve the community. The project received substantial support from various funding bodies. These facilities have transformed the Museum into a central hub for education and community events. Since its 50th anniversary in 2011, the Museum has continued to thrive under the management of The Maltings, maintaining strong ties with local schools and the community. To 2024, a project is underway, financially backed in part by the Society, to conserve and repair the façade of the Museum.
Today, the Farnham & District Museum Society remains committed as Farnham’s history society, continuing to preserve and promote Farnham’s past. We welcome new members to our warm and friendly group and invite you to join us in celebrating our past and supporting our future preservation efforts. Together, we can ensure that Farnham’s rich history inspires and educates future generations.