Birmingham has a long and well-documented history, supported by a wide range of historical societies, civic groups and heritage organisations dedicated to researching, preserving and promoting the city’s past. These groups cover everything from local neighbourhood history and genealogy to architecture, art, social history and civic life. The following organisations are all directly connected to the City of Birmingham, rather than the wider West Midlands region.
Birmingham Civic Society
Founded in 1918, the Birmingham Civic Society is one of the city’s longest-established heritage organisations. It was created to promote civic pride, improve the built environment and protect Birmingham’s historic buildings and public spaces. Over the years the Society has played an influential role in conservation campaigns, public realm improvements and heritage awareness.
The Society is well known for its distinctive blue plaques, which mark important people, places and events in Birmingham’s history. It continues to campaign on planning and conservation issues while promoting high standards of architecture and urban design.
Website: www.birminghamcivicsociety.org.uk
Birmingham Heritage Forum
The Birmingham Heritage Forum acts as an umbrella network for dozens of heritage organisations, historic sites, museums, churches, archives and interest groups across the city. Its purpose is to connect organisations and individuals with a shared interest in Birmingham’s heritage and to raise public awareness of the city’s history.
The Forum supports events, heritage open days, training and collaboration between groups. It also acts as a collective voice for Birmingham’s heritage sector.
Website: www.birminghamheritage.org.uk
Birmingham People’s History Archive
The Birmingham People’s History Archive is a community-run archive dedicated to preserving the history of working people and everyday life in Birmingham. Founded in the early 2020s, it focuses on social movements, labour history, housing, migration, protest and community activism.
The archive holds pamphlets, documents, photographs and oral histories, many of which are not represented in traditional collections. It is based at the Birmingham & Midland Institute and works closely with local researchers and volunteers.
Address: Birmingham & Midland Institute, 9 Margaret Street, Birmingham, B3 3BS
Website: www.bpha.online
Birmingham & Midland Institute (BMI)
Established in 1854, the Birmingham & Midland Institute is itself a historic institution and an important centre for learning, culture and local history. While not a historical society in its own right, the BMI hosts several history and heritage organisations, talks, lectures and archive collections.
It provides a long-standing meeting place for historians, genealogists and researchers interested in Birmingham and the surrounding area.
Address: 9 Margaret Street, Birmingham, B3 3BS
Website: www.bmi.org.uk
Midland Ancestors – Family History Society
Midland Ancestors is a major family history society serving people researching ancestors connected to Birmingham and the historic counties of Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Staffordshire. The society supports genealogical research through publications, talks and access to extensive records.
Its Family History Centre is based at the Birmingham & Midland Institute and is widely used by researchers tracing Birmingham families.
Address: Birmingham & Midland Institute, 9 Margaret Street, Birmingham, B3 3BS
Telephone: 0121 236 8977
Website: www.midlandancestors.org.uk
Handsworth Historical Society
The Handsworth Historical Society focuses on the rich and diverse history of Handsworth, one of Birmingham’s most historically significant districts. The society organises talks, meetings and research projects covering local buildings, industries, communities and notable residents.
Although no longer based in Handsworth Old Town Hall, the society continues to meet at local venues and remains active in promoting Handsworth’s heritage.
Meeting venue: New Church Centre, Winleigh Road, Birmingham, B20 2HN
Telephone: 0121 747 5266
Moor Pool Heritage Trust
The Moor Pool Heritage Trust is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the Moor Pool Estate in Harborne, one of Britain’s earliest garden suburbs. Built in the early 20th century, Moor Pool is historically important for its architecture, community planning and social ideals.
The Trust manages heritage buildings, archives and community events, ensuring the long-term protection of the estate’s unique character.
Address: Moor Pool Hall, The Circle, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 9DY
Telephone: 0121 426 2908
Birmingham History Network
The Birmingham History Network is an informal group bringing together people interested in all aspects of Birmingham’s past. Activities include talks, guided walks, visits to historic sites and discussions led by academic historians and local experts.
The network is particularly popular with residents who want to explore Birmingham’s history in a social and accessible way.
Website presence via Meetup and social media platforms
Birmingham History Forum (Online)
The Birmingham History Forum is an online community dedicated to discussions about Birmingham’s history. Members share photographs, memories, research queries and historical knowledge covering neighbourhoods, industries, transport, families and lost buildings.
It has become a valuable digital resource for researchers and former residents now living elsewhere.
Website: www.birminghamhistory.co.uk
Royal Birmingham Society of Artists
Founded in 1821, the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists has deep historical roots in the city’s cultural life. It has played a significant role in promoting Birmingham artists and documenting the city’s artistic heritage.
The RBSA Gallery in the Jewellery Quarter continues to host exhibitions and events linked to Birmingham’s creative history.
Address: RBSA Gallery, 4 Brook Street, Birmingham, B3 1SA
Website: www.rbsa.org.uk
Birmingham Natural History Society (Historical)
The Birmingham Natural History Society was founded in 1858 and for over 160 years promoted the study of natural history in Birmingham. Its work contributed greatly to scientific understanding and public education in the city.
Although the society closed in 2022, its publications and collections remain an important part of Birmingham’s historical and scientific legacy.
Black Heritage Walks Network (Birmingham)
The Black Heritage Walks Network delivers guided walks and educational programmes focusing on African-Caribbean and Black British history in Birmingham, particularly in areas such as Handsworth. The organisation highlights overlooked stories and landmarks connected to migration, culture and activism.
Website: www.blackheritagewalksnetwork.com
Legacy West Midlands (Birmingham-based projects)
Legacy West Midlands is a heritage and education organisation that works extensively within Birmingham, delivering heritage trails, exhibitions and community projects that reflect the city’s diverse social history.
Website: www.legacywestmidlands.org
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