Janet & Len cleaning mosaic for photo

East Dorset Antiquarian Society (EDAS) is committed to conserving and promoting our archaeological and historical heritage through exploration, excavation and education, including the recording and conservation of archaeological monuments and antiquities.

Visiting Stonehenge

We are a friendly amateur society that actively engages with the public and local communities, inviting you to share our passion for archaeology and history through a varied programme of activities. We encourage an interest in local heritage through education, research and archaeological investigation.

EDAS was founded in 1983 and currently has over 270 members.

As an EDAS member you can enjoy:

  • Monthly lectures from September to May each year
  • A regular newsletter to keep members informed of local and wider topics in archaeology, history and social history, including summaries of lectures
  • Occasional fieldwork and excavations directed by experienced EDAS members, leading to full reports for publication
  • Opportunities to join fieldwork directed by other organisations
  • Access to skills and knowledge training in the field or classroom
  • Field trips to look at history and archaeology in other areas of the UK
  • Guided walks and outings to places of interest in Dorset and neighbouring counties
  • Occasional social events

Practical archaeology remains at the centre of our activities. EDAS is always looking for opportunities to offer members the chance to gain field experience and acquire skills in both excavation and post-excavation work.

For the formal aspects of how we operate you can read our Governing documents, revised when EDAS became a charity in 2017. For more information about the history of EDAS, go to About us.