on 28 january 1873 a meeting of notables of the island took place to discuss the formation of a society for the preservation of the island's archaeological, historical and linguistic heritage, perceived to be threatened by the expansion of st helier and coastal development. those present were aware of the foundation of similar societies in mainland normandy, such as (founded 1824) and similar county societies in the united kingdom. in 1893 the société was given a large townhouse in saint helier which became the base for its operations including its library and museum. in 1913 the various branches of activity were formalised into 'sections', amongst the first being archaeology and history. the section structure still exists and now comprise some 15 sections.