The Victoria County History (VCH) was founded in 1899 as a national project to write the history of every parish in England. It was dedicated to Queen Victoria. In Somerset 11 volumes have been published and this huge research project is on-going. The first two volumes provide general information about the county and were written in the early 20th century. More recent volumes relate to individual parishes and include maps and illustrations.
Since 2015 the Somerset VCH has been managed by a small charity called the Somerset County History Trust. Looking to the future it was felt that VCH work in Somerset could be supported better if it was part of a larger organisation. As a result, the Somerset VCH has amalgamated its charitable activities with the South West Heritage Trust.
The huge project to research and write the history of every parish in Somerset continues. Volume 12, relating to the Minehead and Dunster area, will be published later in 2023. Research is currently taking place on the complex history of Taunton Deane. This includes working through the thousands of relevant records held at the Somerset Heritage Centre.
We were delighted that the Editor of the Somerset VCH, Mary Siraut, has been awarded an inaugural VCH Outstanding Contribution Award. These awards recognise and honour exceptional contributions to the VCH nationally. As editor of the Somerset VCH Mary’s dedication and scholarship have been outstanding. She works full-time in a voluntary capacity, using her wealth of research experience and incredible knowledge of Somerset. She also promotes the VCH through talks, walks and newsletters. Mary received her award at an event at Senate House in London, home of the Institute of Historical Research.
Well done Mary – this recognition is very well deserved!
