Founded in 1913, The Royal Historical Society of Queensland is a vibrant organisation dedicated to promoting Queensland’s history for the benefit of members, affiliated societies and the broader community.

As Queensland’s peak history body, the Society presents an active program of events, publishes the quarterly award-winning Queensland History Journal, maintains an extensive library and museum collections, provides research services and hosts diverse exhibitions in the convict-built Commissariat Store Museum, the oldest occupied building in Queensland.

The Royal Historical Society of Queensland is well-known for its Welsby Library at their headquarters, in the Commissariat Store at 115 William Street, Brisbane. The Welsby Library is open on Thursdays from 10 am to 4 pm and Honorary Research Officers are available to assist researchers, and at other times by arrangement. Most of the research officers are experienced historians.

Available to researchers is the Welsby Library’s comprehensive collection of items that are of interest to those researching Queensland’s history. The collection includes books, booklets, and files, including photographs, many of which have been digitised, as well as maps and plans, and other archival material.

The Library also holds various Queensland Parliamentary Papers, Votes and Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly and Queensland Government Gazettes from 1861 to 1899.

RHSQ has a team of dedicated volunteer historians who also provide research services for a fee. Their extensive knowledge and experience can prove invaluable. Please contact The Royal Historical Society of Queensland research team for more information or to book an appointment. The research team operates during Welsby Library opening hours from 10 am to 4 pm every Thursday.

Postal address:
PO Box 12057, George St, Brisbane, 4003