In 1953, Action Hampshire (previously called HCSS) formed the Hampshire Local History Council, with Bishop of Winchester as Chairman. This group was to “act as a clearing house for the activities of the numerous local societies“. Pointing out the danger of becoming too highbrow, he said that they wanted all kinds of people to be concerned about the history of their own village and towns.

First meeting on Saturday 10 October, 1953 with 20 county organisations joining and various other individuals. The intention of the council was to “do everything possible to help local history societies, become a clearing house for their activities and to stimulate interest in the subject in all parts of the county”. They were particularly keen that folklore and oral history be documented.

In 1959 the Council organised a ‘Finds and Treasures’ exhibition at East Meon Institute which displayed “ancient family souvenirs, finds made by children and other objects with historical value”.

See articles from that time by clicking on the links below.

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