Welcome to

Helmsley Archaeological and Historical Society

HAHS Guided Tour of Beadlam Roman Villa

The Society began life as the Helmsley and Area Group of the Yorkshire Archaeological Society, and the inaugural meeting took place at the Scout Hall, Helmsley on 5th December 1950.

Our Story

Since 1950

“to gather together periodically for lectures and discussions on archaeological subjects, with special emphasis on local history”

Its purpose was ‘to gather together periodically for lectures and discussions on archaeological subjects, with special emphasis on local history’ and to collect and record data. The group flourished and a committed and enthusiastic membership, pre-eminent among them being Raymond Hayes, soon began the task of compiling ‘The History of Helmsley, Rievaulx and District’ which was published by Stonegate Press, York in 1963, edited by John McDonnell. Although long out of print, this volume remains an invaluable source of information about the town and its surroundings.

The first issue of the Society’s biennial publication, The Ryedale Historian was in 1965 providing a way for members and to publish the results of their archaeological and historical research. This and subsequent issues provide evidence of the wide range of interests of the Society’s Members, and activities in which they have been involved.

The AGM is held annually at the April meeting.

The Ryedale Historian

Committee Members 2024-25

 

Chair: Pat Sutor

Secretary: Kay Jones

Treasurer: Veronica Dunne

Membership secretary: Ian Bartlett

Talks Secretary: Susan Harrison

Visits secretary: Richard Sharpe

Librarian: Peter French

Ryedale Historian Editor: Position vacant

Committee member: Tricia Mainprize

Committee Member: Mike Hann

Membership Request

Latest News

Inland Jet Mining in the North York Moors

Discover the hidden history of jet mining across the North York Moors. Chris Twigg reveals 12km+ of forgotten underground workings beyond Whitby’s cliffs.

Read More

Lost in the Woods: Archaeology in the woods around Yorkshire Reservoirs

ohn Buglass reveals hidden archaeology in Yorkshire’s reservoir woodlands—medieval settlements, mills, trackways, and more across 1300 hectares of forest.

Read More

HAHS Guided Tour of Beadlam Roman Villa

This past August, the Helmsley Archaeological and Historical Society (HAHS) arranged an exclusive visit to the remarkable Roman Villa at Beadlam.

Read More

Raiding the Bank – Community Led Archaeology and History at Sutton Bank

Next MeetingRaiding the Bank – Community Led Archaeology and History at Sutton Bank Our first talk of the autumn season on Friday 19th September is: Raiding the Bank – Community Led Archaeology and...
Read More