From simple enquiries for school projects to serious academic research, The Faversham Society provides an extensive source of information on Faversham and its surrounds.

Evidence associated with our collections, information contained in paper and photographic archives, our map collection, Society publications and our libraries, and – importantly – the knowledge held by our many members and specialists are all available to enquirers.

Contact us to make an appointment with the right person to suit your needs

Online Archive

Some of our Faversham papers are now available to download for free:

FP4 Faversham's Gunpowder Industry

FP 40 Churches in the Faversham Area - Ospringe and Davington

FP41 Churches in the Faversham Area - Preston, Oare, Stone and Brents

FP47 Churches in the Faversham Area - Sheldwich, Badlesmere and Buckland

Faversham & Oare Heritage Harbour Group

Faversham developed beside the creek which runs through the heart of our town.

Faversham’s maritime history reaches back to Roman times, embraces the history of the Cinque Ports, and offers a vivid picture of the development of coastal fisheries and merchant sail in the nineteenth century, and shipbuilding until the 1970s.

This wonderful maritime history, and its physical assets, defines so much of Faversham’s identity, and its rediscovery is critical for the retention and enhancement of the character of the town in the years ahead.

The Society is pleased to be part of this initiative to secure regeneration of the creek.

We also have some Faversham Papers available detailing the Creek Heritage and it's sailing craft, by renowned local expert, Hugh Perks. FP 108 - Sailing Smacks of Faversham, FP129 - Sailing Barges of Faversham, FP 132 - Sailing Coasters of Faversham

Also a fascinating paper FP 115 - Customs & Smugglers of the Port of Faversham

Faversham Historians

Originally formed in 1986, the Faversham Historians Group consisted of people who undertook an astonishing amount of research into some aspect of the history of the Faversham area and its people. Led by Arthur Percival, Duncan Harrington, Patricia Hyde and John Owen, its aims were twofold: to provide networking opportunities and to encourage the publication of members’ research to the highest level and quality. The Faversham Historians were independent of the Society although many of them were members.

Numbers grew to about 45 quite quickly but they have not met since Covid. Just like the Faversham Historical Society did after 1962 or the Faversham Institute history group did after 1926, sadly they have now passed into history. Virtually every Faversham Paper and book published post 1986 about Faversham's history was written by one their members. Many of the authors were ' enthusiastic amateurs' who without the group's encouragement would not have achieved what they did to uncover our local history. 
Patricia and Duncan particularly were exceptionally generous in their support and their co-authored books are seminal works of lasting scholarship and value to the town.

Faversham Society Archaeological Research Group (FSARG)

Formed in 2004, the Group promotes community archaeology for the people, and by the people. It works to the highest possible professional standards in an area rich in archaeological potential and, whilst large-scale excavations are not undertaken, field-walking, ‘keyhole’ evaluations and smaller digs can be very productive.

Through careful evaluation of selected sites, undertaken with the full co-operation of the owners, our understanding of the development of the area, from prehistoric times to the present day, has advanced substantially. The Group’s recording methods are meticulous and it is scrupulous about publishing authoritative reports as soon as possible on its website where you can also find how to join. You need have no experience of practical archaeology - necessary skills can be acquired from experienced members of the Group and you will have a great time!

You can find our more about FSARG on their website.