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1 The Society’s Study Day took place in September at Union Chapel, Islington. Members of the Congregational History Circle were invited to attend as the Annual Lecture was given by Dr Clyde Binfield and commemorated the centenary of the founding of the Congregational Historical Society. Dr Binfield brought figures from our past to life with a wealth of fascinating detail. The day also included a tour of the Abney Park Cemetery, with its Isaac Watts and 19th Century Congregationalist connections, and visits to local churches of historic interest.

2 The first “Study Day in the North”, held at the old Northern Congregational College at Whalley Range, was attended by over 40 members and friends. Dr Elaine Kaye gave a lively lecture on the history of the Northern College focussing on the personalities and peculiarities of the various Principals.

3 Some concentrated work on the Library and Archives, now held at Westminster College, Cambridge, put them in better order following their move from London. Those wishing to use the Library are advised to contact Mrs Margaret Thompson on 01223 741300 first. Any queries should be addressed to the URC History Society at the College address. Correspondence for the Secretary should also be sent to the College and not to her private address.

4 In accordance with the 1997 General Assembly Resolution, in October 1999 the Northern Synod archives were sent to the Tyne and Wear Archives Service for distribution to other relevant record repositories in the north. The Society wished to record its thanks to the Newcastle District for financial assistance towards this work and to Mr and Mrs Richard Potts for their specialist advice and help. The work of dispersal was continuing, following the pattern used for the Northern Synod, and it was expected that archives from churches in the former Manchester and Liverpool Presbyteries would be dealt with in the first half of 2000.

5 The Journal continued to flourish and the editor had a good pool of publishable material to choose from. A Supplement to mark the R W Dale Centenary was produced in co-operation with Carrs Lane Church.

6 The lecture at the Society’s General Assembly Lunch at Southport had a local theme, “Chapel Boothroyds - a Southport Perspective”, and was given by Dr Clyde Binfield. About 25 members and friends were present.

7 The Society is happy to receive copies of local church histories. The present membership comprises both professional and amateur historians and all who have an interest in the history of the URC are warmly welcome to join.