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The Richard III Society was founded during the summer of 1924 by a Liverpool surgeon, Saxon Barton, and a small group

of friends. They were all enthusiastic amateur historians, with a particular interest in the life and times of Richard III.  

Their motivation was a belief that history had not dealt justly with the King’s posthumous reputation, and they wanted to encourage and promote a more balanced view.

In Saxon Barton’s own words,  “In my view, historical belief must be founded on facts, where possible, and on honest conviction.”

The Richard III Society is now an international organisation, with a membership of several thousand and a range of

 achievements to its name.   Its contribution to fifteenth century research and scholarship is widely recognised and admired.   The recent discovery and identification of King Richard’s remains at the Greyfriars dig in Leicester has led to a resurgence of interest in the king, and given renewed impetus to the Society and its work, to secure a more balanced assessment of his character and his role in history.

 

 

 

 

THE VICTORIA BRANCH 

 

 

The first Australian branch of the Richard III Society was founded in Melbourne on the 2nd October, 1959.   This was the only branch of the Society in Australia until the 1980’s, when separate branches were established in other Australian states and in New Zealand.

Most Victoria Branch activities are held in Melbourne.   The Branch holds eight meetings during the year, at which talks are given on historical topics, associated with Richard III, his life and times.   Open discussion is a feature of the meetings, which end with refreshments provided by members.

There are also two luncheons and a Christmas dinner each year, as well as an annual memorial service held in August, to mark the anniversary of Bosworth Field.

Details of meetings are given to members in the Branch newsletter, or at meetings.