The Abertay Historical Society was founded at a meeting in University College, Dundee on 29 May, 1947 by the Principal, Major-General D.N. Wimberley and History Lecturer, Dr Wainwright. It was formed to encourage the study of local history in Angus, Perthshire and Fife. The Society and Dundee University have maintained close links: meetings are held on University premises and many members and office-holders have been University staff.

The Society’s original remit has been implemented through talks and lectures, excursions and annual publications, and with other agencies, it has also lobbied for the preservation of local historical buildings. It was instrumental in the creation of Dundee Heritage Trust. The Society also takes part in the Dundee Afternoon Lectures series, which is run jointly by the Dundee Centre of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society, the Dundee Members’ Group of the National Trust for Scotland, the Dundee Naturalists’ Society and the Abertay Historical Society.