About Us
Who Are We?
The Society was originally formed in 1975 for the village of Send only and in 1982 Ripley was added as it was originally part of the ancient parish of Send.
The Society is very active, run by a committee of volunteers, some of whom have been involved with the history of the villages for over 50 years.
There is a year-round calendar of talks, outings and social events.
Membership is currently over 330.
Aims of the Society
The original aims were: to promote an interest in, and an understanding of, the history and prehistory of the locality of Send, and to act as a forum and a source of reference for all matters relating to local history. On the recommendation of the Charity Commissioners the aims were changed to read: to educate the public in the history of the ancient parish of Send and Ripley and of any nearby parishes.
Considerable research has been conducted over the years and is documented in the many books and articles written by members.
Constitution
The Send and Ripley History Society is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), charity no. 1174161. Above is a copy of our constitution as registered with the Charity Commission. Financial information and changes in the trustees can be viewed on the Charity Commission website
Museum
The Society owns a tiny museum in the grounds of Ripley Village Hall – possibly the smallest Arts Council accredited museum in the country. In September 1993 Lord Forte of Ripley officially opened the museum, converted from the local NatWest bank branch and relocated next to Ripley Village Hall. There is a permanent display of local artefacts and regular changing exhibitions.
Opening times:
Saturday mornings: 10am-12pm or by appointment.
Charitable Status
Send & Ripley History Society became a registered charity in 1987 and a CIO from 2017 (charity reg. no. 1174161) and relies on its membership and occasional grants to fund its activities.
Education
The Society is committed to helping local schools in researching and learning about the history of Send and Ripley and offers loan boxes to local schools to provide material for history projects. We can arrange speakers for schools and arrange visits to the museum, and may be able to display school’s work there.
Loan boxes include:
-
Toys – old and reproduction toys as well as information sheets on the history of different types of toys. There is also a mystery item to be explored with a reproduction for hands-on play.
-
A walk around Ripley – old photos, maps, information on the history of the village with ideas for walks.
-
A walk around Send – looking at wrought iron work made in the village smithy.
-
World War II memories – this box contains some replica documents and some original uniforms.
-
Transport – particularly looking at the role of the Wey Navigation
Please contact us if you are interested in borrowing any Loan Boxes.
Guest Speakers
The Society may also be able to arrange speakers for other local groups. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.