The Dumfriesshire and Galloway Natural History and Antiquarian Society
The Dumfriesshire and Galloway Natural History and Antiquarian
Society was formed in November 1862 at a meeting held in the
Mechanics' Hall, Dumfries. The meeting had been called at the
instigation of Dr James Gilchrist, Dr J Dickson and Mr W G Gibson
who had decided to 'call together local gentlemen interested in the
cultivation of Natural History and Antiquarian Research at
Dumfries.'
The objectives of the Society were tocollect and publish the
best information on the natural sciences and antiquities…of
Dumfries, Kirkcudbright and Wigtown; to procure the preservation of
objects of natural science and antiquities relative to the
district; to encourage local research and field activities in
natural science and excavations by private individuals or public
bodies and afford them suggestions and co-operation.
Membership rose quickly, and an active programme of fieldwork
together with the personal activities of many of its members
resulted in the continued expanse of its collections. These
were exhibited, along with those of the Dumfries and Maxwelltown
Astronomical Society, in the observatory tower and main hall.
In 1935 a formal loan from the Antiquarian Society to the Town
Council was agreed. In 1982 the collections of the
Antiquarian Society were presented as a permanent gift to Dumfries
Museum. The collections represent the Antiquarian Society's
work over many decades and include social history, geological and
botanical material as well as archaeological artefacts.
Celebrating 150 years, today the Antiquarian Society continues
to provide a focus for those interested in the archaeology, human
and natural history of Dumfries and Galloway.