The Society of Antiquaries of London

Summary by Amara Thornton

Founded in 1707 for researching the antiquities and monuments of the British Isles, the Society of Antiquaries of London (SAL) holds an important place in the history of archaeology as a supporter and campaigner for archaeology and heritage. It was a key venue for reporting discoveries through public lectures and hosted exhibitions of excavated artefacts from Britain and abroad.  Researchers will find relevant material in several collections at the SAL: in the Library, the Archives and Prints and Drawings.  The SAL also holds the records of the Society of Dilettanti and the Royal Archaeological Institute.

Scope of collections:
Administrative records (SAL Minute Books, SAL Executive Committee Minute Books, Council Books, Fellowship blue papers and lists), exhibition pamphlets, archaeological archives for excavations (including Old Sarum, Silchester, Stonehenge, Glastonbury), prints and drawings of antiquities and topography, photographs, correspondence

Website: https://www.sal.org.uk/
https://www.sal.org.uk/library/manuscripts-and-archives/
Twitter: @SocAntiquaries

Relevant Contacts:
Library email: [email protected]

Further Reading:

Evans, J. 1956. A History of the Society of Antiquaries. London: Oxford University Press. 

Gaimster, D. McCarthy, S. and Nurse, B. 2007. Making History: Antiquaries in Britain, 1707-2007. London: Royal Academy of Arts.

Pearse, S. 2007. Visions of Antiquity: the Society of Antiquaries of London, 1707-2007. London: Society of Antiquaries of London.