The aims of the Black Country Society are to promote and stimulate interest in the past, present and future of the Black Country with regard to historical, social, cultural and environmental matters; to promote a high standard of planning and environmental design and to secure the preservation, protection, development and improvement of features of historic interest in the Black Country.

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The Society was established in 1967 by Dr John Fletcher and Mr John Brimble at the Noah's Ark public house, Tipton. In 2017, the 50th Anniversary of the Society, a 'Blue Plaque' was unveiled above the front door of the public house.

The Society and its members are extremely proud to have, for over 50 years, supported, recorded, preserved and celebrated the distinct character and nature of the West Midlands area known since 1846 as 'The Black Country'.

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Our membership is mainly UK based but overseas society friends are welcomed and our aim is to to keep all members informed about the news, discoveries, stories and historical research carried out in the West Midlands area of the UK, known as 'The Black Country'.  Many BCS Members have family links to this area and an interest in the regions involvement through many kinds of trade, manufacturing processes and goods. Indeed, we are in the area of the UK where a unique combination of materials, resources, people and ingenuity came together to increase manufacturing output and create the Industrial Revolution (1760 - 1840) .

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The Society hosts and arranges many interesting talks, walks and visits, both in the area and further afield to see how goods and products, manufactured and developed in the area, have benefited the lives of millions living in this country and overseas.

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The 'Blackcountryman' magazine is our flagship and if you prefer, you can sit in your most comfortable chair at home and be entertained, amazed and extend your knowledge from the published features and articles in the magazine. These features describe the extraordinary events, achievements, places and 'larger than life' characters of the Black Country. The magazine also contains the latest news about the society and its events, so you will always be up-to-date.

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The Society also publishes a select number of books each year. These books enable historic and researched information to be shared with BCS members. The books are also available through various outlets and through this website to anyone interested in the history and industry of the 'Black Country'.

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The Black Country Society welcomes new members. We offer a diverse range of activities including talks, lectures, planned visits and walks each year. There is something for everyone to enjoy through their interest of local and social history,