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Welcome to this wonderful place
The Spalding Gentlemen’s Society, one of the oldest learned societies in the Kingdom and the earliest provincial association for the encouragement of antiquarianism, was founded by Maurice Johnson (1688-1755), “The Antiquary”, of Ayscoughfee Hall, Spalding.
The Museum is currently closed for building works until spring 2027. We invite everyone to visit us at Ayscoughfee Hall, 10:30-4, Wednesday to Sunday.
“Visited from Boston last week and found your museum an absolute gem and the members so friendly, helpful and informative.”
Uncovering new stories
I joined Spalding Gentlemen’s Society as a Curatorial Associate in April 2026. I have a background in Anthropology and Museum Studies, and since moving to the UK in 2021 I've volunteered extensively across museums, working...
Curiosity, Discovery and the Search for Knowledge: 2026/27 Lecture Series
From exploring what life was like as a tavern cook in the 18th century, to gaining an insight into the archaeology of Ancaster, hearing more about the mystery of the Magna Carta and new discoveries...
welcome along
What We Do
Founded in 1710, the Spalding Gentlemen’s Society is Britain’s oldest surviving provincial learned society. Since 1955, its charitable purpose has been: ‘To promote and foster among the public knowledge, appreciation and the study of …’ what we now call the Arts, Sciences and Humanities. It is a membership society that welcomes women, notwithstanding its history and name. Membership is open to anyone aged eighteen or over.
Our Blog
News and Articles
Uncovering new stories
I joined Spalding Gentlemen’s Society as a Curatorial Associate in April 2026. I have a background in Anthropology and Museum Studies, and since moving to the UK in 2021 I've volunteered extensively across museums, working...
Curiosity, Discovery and the Search for Knowledge: 2026/27 Lecture Series
From exploring what life was like as a tavern cook in the 18th century, to gaining an insight into the archaeology of Ancaster, hearing more about the mystery of the Magna Carta and new discoveries...
