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Croydon Natural History & Scientific Society facts for kids
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| Abbreviation | CNHSS |
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| Formation | 1870 |
| Type | Cultural society |
| Purpose | The study of the local history, archaeology, natural history and geology of the London Borough of Croydon and adjoining districts |
| Location |
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Region served
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London Borough of Croydon and surrounding areas |
The Croydon Natural History & Scientific Society (CNHSS) is a special group in Croydon, south London. It's like a club for people who love learning about the past and nature. They study the local history, archaeology, natural history, and geology of the London Borough of Croydon and nearby places. This society started way back in 1870. It is also a registered charity, which means it helps the community.
Contents
What is the CNHSS?
The CNHSS is a cultural society. This means it helps people learn about and enjoy culture, history, and science. They focus on the area around Croydon.
Studying Local History
Local history is all about the past of a specific place. The CNHSS looks into how Croydon has changed over many years. They learn about the people, buildings, and events that shaped the area.
Exploring Archaeology
Archaeology is the study of human history through digging up old things. The society explores ancient objects and sites found in and around Croydon. This helps them understand how people lived long ago.
Discovering Natural History
Natural history is about plants, animals, and nature. The CNHSS studies the wildlife and plants in the Croydon area. They learn about different species and their environments.
Understanding Geology
Geology is the study of Earth's rocks and land. The society looks at the types of rocks and landforms in Croydon. This helps them understand how the area's landscape was formed.
History of the Society
The society began in 1870. It was first called the Croydon Microscopical Club. A microscope is a tool that makes tiny things look bigger.
Changes to the Name
In 1877, the club changed its name. It became the Croydon Microscopical and Natural History Club. This showed they were also interested in nature. Then, in 1902, they changed it again to its current name. It became the Croydon Natural History & Scientific Society. This name shows they study many different science topics.
Becoming a Charity
The society became an official company in 1967. In 1970, it was registered as a charity. Being a charity means they work for the public good.
What the Society Does
The CNHSS has many activities for its members. They hold regular meetings and trips.
Meetings and Trips
- They have lecture meetings where experts talk about interesting topics.
- They go on field meetings to explore local areas.
- They organize excursions to places of interest.
Library and Museum
The society has its own library. It is full of books and information about history and nature. They also have a museum. The museum shows off items they have collected. It is open sometimes or by appointment.
Publishing a Journal
The CNHSS also publishes a journal. This is like a special magazine. It shares new discoveries and research from their members.
Special Interest Groups
The society has smaller groups for specific interests. These groups are informal.
- The Ornithology Group studies birds.
- The Entomology Section focuses on insects.
Society Locations
The CNHSS has a main building and a separate museum.
Headquarters and Library
The society's main office and library are at 96a, Brighton Road, South Croydon. They bought this building in 1966. It is where many of their activities take place.
Museum Location
The museum is in a different place. It is housed at Chipstead Valley Primary School. You can visit the museum on special days or by arranging a time.
The Society's Emblem
The CNHSS has a special emblem or symbol. It is based on an old object found in Croydon.
An Ancient Discovery
The emblem shows a bronze disc from the 5th or 6th century. This disc has a cool design called a triskelion. A triskelion is a symbol with three spirals or legs. People think it might have been a belt decoration or a lucky charm.
Where it Was Found
This ancient disc was found in 1893. It was discovered in an Anglo-Saxon cemetery in Edridge Road, Croydon. Anglo-Saxons were people who lived in England a very long time ago.
Seeing the Original
You can see the real bronze disc today. It is on display in the Riesco Gallery. This gallery is part of the Museum of Croydon.
External Links
- Official Website of the Croydon Natural History & Scientific Society: https://cnhss.co.uk/