Welcome
The society began life as The Essex Architectural Research Society, formed in 1967 to further the study of vernacular architecture.
In 2001 it adopted its present name and extended its scope to Hertfordshire, especially the east of the county. Both Hertfordshire and Essex have a wealth of traditional buildings. The study of ‘ordinary’ buildings from earlier centuries, almost ignored until the 1960s, has advanced enormously in recent years, and the two counties have been in the forefront of research.
The Society meets once a month from September to May, usually on a Friday, in Loughton, South-West Essex. Occasional meetings are held in East Herts or North-West Essex. Meetings cover any topic related to traditional buildings, their design and construction, and their relationship to the social and economic history of their time.
Speakers are either invited guests or members themselves, and talks are usually illustrated.
During the summer months, visits are organised to places of interest, often to buildings not generally open to the public. Buildings of particular interest have been measured and recorded and, in some instances, the work has been published.
Members interests range from traditional buildings to post-war housing developments.
While many members are experts in their fields, beginners are very welcome to join our friendly group.
In April 2010 we held our first six-week class that was aimed at both beginners and intermediate learners, as part of the Loughton Festival. We are now making plans for our next, which will be held in April 2012 at Loughton Cricket Club. The class tutor will be Ann Padfield, a past HEARS Chair and WEA tutor. Details are on the next page. Booking is now open. Please send a cheque for £36 and SAE to 18 Wellfields, Loughton, IG10 1NX
HEARS has strong links with the Essex Historic Buildings Group (based in Chelmsford), with the Loughton Festival and with members of the WEA. It is affiliated to the Essex Congress and to the national organisation, the Vernacular Architecture Group (VAG).
Visitors are very welcome at our meetings, but to comply with insurance requirements they do have to register, giving their name and address.
There is a small charge for non-members, currently £2
