About the Wareham and District Archaeology & Local History Society
The Wareham and District Archaeology & Local History Society was established in 1985 with the aim of bringing together individuals with a shared interest in archaeology, local history, and heritage. Our society is made up of a diverse group of like-minded people from various backgrounds and walks of life.
A special event to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Wareham Archaeology and Local History Society will take place on Saturday 10 October 2026 at Furzebrook Village Hall (2pm – 4:30pm). Lilian Ladle, founder of the society will provide some highlights of the last 40 years. Julian Richards a professional archaeologist with over 30 years experience, and a familiar face on TV over the years, will give a talk ‘A Career in Ruins’. See Events page for more details.
As part of the celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the Society we have provided some information on the Bestwall Quarry project which ran from 1992 to 2005.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
16 September 2026. Victorian Wareham
Lilian Ladle
Wareham’s recovery and growth after the devastating fire of 1762 continued throughout Victoria’s long reign (1837 – 1901). The economy and social growth of this self-sufficient market town was vibrant. New buildings proliferated, businesses flourished, and the development of health and education systems, railway and postal services was of benefit to all. However, by the end of the 19th century a dramatic change was afoot. The Boer war in far away South Africa affected the town. The telephone and motorised transport arrived. Life as it had been would never be quite the same again.
For more information and full list of dates go to the Meetings page
UPCOMING EVENTS
(Our own WALS events and others likely to be of interest to members)
26 June 2026 – Tour of The Big Dig Excavation at Winterborne Kingston
02 September 2026 – a walk around Victorian Wareham with Lilian Ladle.
For more information go to the Events page
