Notable Society Members

The Amersham Society started with a public meeting in May 1956. The aims of the Society were set to preserve the character and amenities of the old town, to study its history and provide a museum for the town. The original idea belonged to John Camp, who was elected the first Chairman.

Among other founder members voted on to the first Committee were:

  • Jean Archer, Hon Secretary
  • Ernest Bridgstock Choat, Hon Curator
  • Mr Cornwall, Hon Treasurer
  • Pam Appleby
  • Francis Free
  • John Fuller
  • George Langland
  • Mr Paget
  • Leslie Elgar Pike
  • Ronald William Prizeman

A list of Society Chairs from its foundation:

  • John Camp (1956 – 1960)
  • Ernest Bridgstock Choat (1960 – 1972)
  • Eric Corns (1972 – 1996)
  • Jean Archer (1996 – 1999)
  • Harry Morton (2000 – 2001)
  • (Acting) Anthony del Tufo (2002 – 2004)
  • Martin Brooks (2004 – 2013)
  • (Acting) George Allison (2014)
  • Martin Pounce (2015 – 2018)
  • Dorothy Symes (2018 – 2022)
  • Edward Copisarow (2022 – present)

Society Hon Curators from 1956 until 2000 when Amersham Museum received its own registration:

  • Ernest Bridgstock Choat (1956 – 1973)
  • Vera Bridgstock Choat (1973 – 1978)
  • Peter Leder (1979 – 1982)
  • Jane Berry (1983 – 1984)
  • Monica Mullins (1984 – 2003)

Local historians and contributors to Society Newsletters and other publications:

  • Dr Michael Brooks
  • Enid Butcher, artist and illustrator
  • Reg Mason
  • Nicolas Salmon

Other prominent members:

  • Enid Butcher, Hon Secretary, Hon Treasurer and Membership Secretary sequentially (1961 – 1991)
  • Frank Peers, Hon Secretary (1971 – 1986)
  • Philip Plumbly, Hon Treasurer (1981 – 1996)

(E&OE)