Background

Now in its 35th year, the society was initially formed as the Holymoorside history society  in 1973 when a  few residents of the village were discussing an old map, over a drink, in the local pub.

The Holymoorside and District History Society as it is now known was formed 3 years later, in 1976, when residents in the neighbouring parishes of Brampton, Walton and Wadshelf joined the group.

The first public meeting was addressed by county archivist Joan Sinar who together with local historian Charles Gedge helped to lay the foundations for the society which went on to thrive under the leadership of former chairman Roy Thompson and current chairman Brian Hutchinson.

Projects

One of our first major projects was to produce a film depicting life in and around Holymoorside. The film, “Holymoorside - portrait of a village” was made, with the cooperation of local residents, in the Queens jubilee year in 1977, and was “premiered” at Buxton Opera House. A copy of the film is now held in the national film archive. A second film was produced to coincide with the Queen’s golden jubilee.

In 1995 we started a project to restore several ancient guide stoops (signposts) to their original locations around the district. The project was carried out over a number of years and the society was successful in returning a total of 10 to their rightful positions.

A millenium project grant from the lottery commission in 2000 funded the installation of a series of 20 plaques at points of interest around Holymoorside village and heritage trail signs to assist visitors to the locality .

The society received an award from Derbyshire County Council in November 2007 for “excellence in the community”.

Today

The Holymoorside and District History Society meets on the 3rd Friday of every month except June, July and August, in Holymoorside village hall at 7.30pm. A varied selection of speakers provide an interesting and sometimes amusing evening of entertainment. Admission is £1.50 including refreshments and a free raffle. Attendance has increased by 30% over the last 2 years and we always welcome new faces of all age groups.

The society has produced several items for sale on themes of local interest, these include original walks around the area, coasters, tea towels, videos, DVD’s and calendars and christmas cards.

To order 2010 calendars and christmas cards contact the history society on 01246 568561. For details of forthcoming talks etc. please refer to the events page of this website.

For more information on society meetings, activities etc. telephone: 01246 568561 or visit our website at www.holymoorsidehistorysociety.com