HLHS was founded in 1952
The aims of HLHS are as follows:
- To provide a forum where all with an interest in the history of Horley and its surroundings, from its earliest times to the present day, can meet, discuss and review ongoing projects and acquire knowledge on all aspects of local history.
- To provide help and assistance to those undertaking studies in areas of personal interest.
- To encourage the collection of data, information and photographic records on all aspects of local history. Also, to undertake further research with the object of assembling the results in a published format for the benefit of members and for the general public to enjoy.
The Society participates in local exhibitions and staffs the Horley Local History desk in Horley Library.
It is a member of the British Association for Local History whereby members can be kept informed of associated activities throughout the UK and can often attend national events at a reduced fee. It is non profit making and has no paid staff.
It produces annual accounts which are available on request.
In 1952 a small group of interested people within Horley parish formed a local history association. They identified early references concerning Horley history and undertook much basic research into what was available at County Record Offices, Lambeth & Guildhall Libraries, Surrey Archaeological Society and the British Museum. Much of its findings formed the basis for its future studies.
By 1971 this group had expanded to such an extent that a formal constitution was agreed and the group adopted the current name.
In the following years the Society published a number of books and booklets on local history subjects all of which continue to sell via our website and ebay.
Since then we have assembled a large collection of documents, maps and photographs of the district dating back over several centuries together with complete census records.
By 1995 it was apparent that Horley Library staff were becoming overloaded with enquiries relating to local history and to relieve the pressure on them members of HLHS agreed to man a desk in the library for two sessions a week and this group became the Horley Local History Centre. It continues till this day.
In 1997 the History Centre was given the 1st of three annual awards by Holt Jackson (the publishing services company) for the manner in which it set up the Centre along with a silver plaque and a cheque for £4000.
Membership of HLHS currently exceeds 150.
Membership is just £10 a year for individuals or £15 for families and all are welcome to join us whether resident in Horley or not.
Click on the link below to access a membership application form.
We meet on the 4th Tuesday of each month (except August) at The Regent Hall in Albert Road, Horley at 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start. This usually takes the form of an illustrated talk on a subject relating to local history or a more generalised historical event.
During the Covid pandemic we held meetings for members via Zoom and may return to this platform if neccesary.
We are currently (2025) exploring the process of digitalising our Archive material which includes several thousand postcard views of Horley and many interesting documents. Watch this space for further news.