Introduction

Abstract

In this the first number of our quarterly magazine,  “The Coelacanth”, it is fitting to turn our minds back to the first steps taken to form an historical society in East London. The Society was formed at a public meeting held in the Council Chamber, City Hall, on July 28th, 1960. The meeting, convened by the then Mayor of East London, Cr. W.P. Osmond, was one at which progress was reported following on the establishing here of a branch of the Simon van der Stel Foundation the previous year, also under chairmanship of Mr. Osmond. It was felt, however, that historical matters in East London and on the Border generally, would be best served by a local body and consequently the meeting formed an independent body and proceeded to elect an executive committee.