The Walmsley Society was formed in 1985 by a handful of people who derive great pleasure from the writings of Leo Walmsley and the paintings of James Ulric Walmsley and wish to share their enthusiasm with others. Membership now stands at over 200 worldwide and includes several members of the Walmsley family, whilst Leo's youngest son, Dr. Sean Walmsley, Professor of Education in New York State, is Society President.

The Society, which is a member of the Alliance of Literary Societies, meets annually in May at Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire, England, and occasionally in autumn in other parts of the country that often have Walmsley associations. A Journal, free to members, is published twice yearly and regular newsletters are circulated.

A considerable amount of research into the life of Leo Walmsley has been undertaken by the Society and already a biographical monograph has been published. (The Honey Gatherers, Peter J. Woods, Arestos Publications, 1991). This offers a critical study of his writing and gives an insight into his character.

Further biographical information has been correlated and examined and the Society has built up a large archive from which a comprehensive biography has been prepared. Entitled Shells and Bright Stones, it was published by Smith Settle of Otley, Yorkshire, in May 2001. Having now almost sold out, there are just a few copies in softback and hardback remaining in our online online bookshop.

Walmsley's widow, Stephanie, writes her own personal memories of their relationship in Autumn Gold (Fowey Rare Books, 1995).

The Journal is a rich source of information about Leo and Ulric and Society members and a web page is being planned that lists the contents of all editions. This is with a view to making available this valuable archived material either by selling back issues (already in short supply) or by copying where Journal volumes still exist.

If you'd like to become a member of the Society, please subscribe today and start by receiving your first copy of the Society Journal.

Jack Hazell, the Society's founder, with the
president, Dr Sean Walmsley

Details of future events.

Some past events can be seen here

and some Sunday walk photos are here.