Archives of the Cambridge Society

First steps towards the establishment of the Cambridge Society were taken in 1974 during the Vice-Chancellorship of Professor J.W. Linnett. Its main aim was the advancement of the welfare and interests of the University of Cambridge by encouraging closer relations between resident and non resident members and keeping members informed of University developments. Membership at the start, focussing on mature alumni, was open to all matriculated members of the University and to honorary fellows of Colleges and holders of honorary degrees. The Society organised social and educational events in Cambridge, supported by a network of branches in the UK and overseas and published a magazine, Cambridge. Fundraising was not part of its remit. Down the decades, its activities broadened, among other things, to include events for undergraduates, a travel programme and to complement the role of the University's Development Office and Press and Publications Office. In 2008, the organisation was wound up, on its amalgamation with the Development Office to become the Cambridge Alumni Relations Office.

The Society had an office at 4 Parson's Court, 1977-96. In 1996 it moved into Fitzwilliam House, 32 Trumpington Street, acquiring larger premises including a Combination Room for members. Fitzwilliam House was vacated in 2008.

The records were transferred to the University Archives by Mrs Mary Howe, Administrator, Cambridge Society, on 7 March 2008.

Please cite as Cambridge University Archives, Archives of the Cambridge Society, CAMSOC

The online catalogue for Janus was completed in March 2009.