Introduction
Cumberland and Westmorland Antiquarian and Archaeological Society was founded in 1866. The Society first published its Transactions (TCWAAS) in 1874. Fifteen volumes were published up to 1900 and from then it became an annual publication. Each volume of TCWAAS contains a collection of edited papers on various topics relating to both the history and the archaeology of the area.
From the first, the Society embraced Lancashire-over-Sands, despite the geographical focus of its name; so when, in 1974, that area of Lancashire was officially absorbed into the new administrative area named Cumbria, the change made little difference to CWAAS affairs.
The Society funds historical and archaeological research with grants to volunteer groups, schools, museums and academic/professional researchers. Operates a website, www.cumbriapast.com, with accessible heritage information. Supports local historical societies in studying the historical environment. Holds study days, lectures and visits. As well as publishing Transactions, a respected annual journal, the Society publishes books and tracts.
Membership of the society is open to everyone with an interest in the history of Cumbria; or in the more formal language of the Society's rules, 'the study of archaeology, history, genealogy, customs and traditions' with special reference to the County of Cumbria, which now includes the historic counties of Cumberland and Westmorland as well as Lancashire North of the Sands and the Sedbergh district of Yorkshire.
The Society has four affiliated regional groups. Carlisle Affiliated Group, Penrith Affiliated Group, South West Cumbria Historical and Archaeological Society and Kendal Historical and Archaeological Society.
