HISTORICAL RESEARCH.

Otago Witness, Issue 3869, 8 May 1928, Page 24

HISTORICAL RESEARCH.

A meeting was held at the University on Wednesday to consider the formation of an historical society for Dunedin. The proposal was first mooted by Mr A Eccles, correspondence read by whom indicated that support could be expected from a considerable number of persons in addition to those assembled.

Dr Elder, professor of history, who was voted to the chair, explained the work being done by the New Zealand Historical Association, formed recently with branches in Wellington and Christchurch, the archaeological section of the New Zealand Institute, and the Early Settlers’ Association, whose membership is limited to pioneers and their descendants.

Mr A. Eccles, who recently contributed an article to the Otago Witnes elaborating a proposal for the formation of an historical society (copies of which were circulated among a number of persons likely to be interested), referred to the growing interest in New Zealand historical research work shown by recent books and newspaper articles. He suggested thai a society should be formed which should engage in the recording of New Zealand history, European and Maori, excluding the wider scope of the Polynesian Society. It should assist members in acquiring authentic information of past happenings, and if branches could be formed in other provinces their work would be aided by such opportunities for consultation and co-operation. Useful work could be done also in the preparation of indexes to books already published and articles in newspaper files. Any spare funds might be used for assisting authors in the publication of works which otherwise they might be unable to publish.

After an interesting discussion, in which the inadvisableness of multiplying societies, if the object could be gained'by working in with an existing institution, was generally agreed on, Mr T. K. Sidey, M.P., moved and Mr R. Gilkison seconded, that steps should be taken to obtain A copy of the rules and constitution of the New Zealand Historical Association, with a view to further consideration of the matter at a subsequent meeting, and this was agreed to. The general objects of the New Zealand Historical Association are defined as being “ the advancement of the study and » teaching of history by the collection of I

information, by correspondence, by lectures, and the encouragement of research.”