Fordham Local History Society
We are a small group meeting once a month in Fordham Village Hall. We explore and experience local, national and international themes in order to learn about the history of our locality and how it has been shaped by people and events. In doing so, we hope to preserve the heritage of Fordham and the surrounding area.
Fordham Local History Society had its very first meeting back in March 1997 in Fordham Village Hall and was attended by 19 people.
Pat Lewis gave the first talk and she was made honourary president, sadly Pat passed away in August 2017. Her valuable contribution to the history of Fordham has underpinned much of our society.
The AGM in November 2025 was held in the Parish Room as usual with yearly accounts checked and verified by accountant G. Hewes. Wendy Shepherd continues as chairperson, treasurer and programme secretary. Christine Alexander is the second signatory. Michael Hamilton-Macy is the Colchester Archaeological Group liaison. Jenny Kay is the society's president
Membership is free to anyone who wishes to join us, we pay £4.00 on the door at the meeting.
Our meetings now take place on the third Tuesday of every month except in January, August and December. Following the 2025 AGM, members decided that in 2027 we will start the new season in March and go through the year meeting every month with our last meeting in November.
An after school History Club was started in September 2017 for the pupils of All Saints Village School. Sadly this has been put on hold due to Covid 19. It has not restarted.
We also offer a research service if you require any family history covered in the census documents and Essex Archives. Currently researcher Wendy Shepherd continues to answer queries from people all over the world who have had ancestors living in Fordham in the past.
Take a journey back to the past and enjoy the images of Fordham.
Both books about Fordham and the village during the two world wars are available online or as hard copies.
We also have a set of postcards of old Fordham for sale at 5 for £3.00 which includes postage. Earlier published smaller books 'The Miscellany' and 'Photo Album' are available too.
As part of our 30th Anniversary next year, work has started on a second photo album of brand new photos and two information leaflets. One leaflet is about the history society and the other is about our archaeological dig.
The new book about Fordham and WW2 is now available to purchase at £10.00. Many thanks to the Hervey Benham Charitable Trust who gave the author a generous grant towards the printing.
£3.00 plus £1.00 p&p
or 2 for £5.00
Please note: You may download the book here to read. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilised in any form or by any means electrical or mechanical without the permission of the author. The right of Wendy Shepherd to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by her in accordance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. Content Copyright © 2017 Wendy Shepherd and FLHS. All rights reserved.
We come together to preserve Fordham's history for the benefit of the community