1906-1913

EARLY YEARS UP TO THE GREAT WAR

First General Meeting of the Society

The first formal General Meeting (AGM) of the Society was held on 27th February 1906, atwhich the Provisional Committee was replaced by the General Council and Officers. At that time, the positions of President and Chairman were separate and distinct. The President was a person with status and influence, able to act as a figurehead and give stature to the Society, whilst the Chairman led the day to day business, assisted by the Secretary.

The first President was Sir Dugald Clerk, although he was not the first person to be approached to take on the office. He was later to receive an honorary Degree of Doctor of Science from Manchester University. The first Chairman was Mr Charles Clare, who had chaired the Provisional Committee, as well as calling the inaugural meeting to discuss the formation of the Society.