St Cuthbert's Society founded at Durham

Background. St Cuthbert's Society originated as a college for students not attached to existing colleges at Durham University. Prior to 1888, unattached students had made two previous attempts to consolidate earlier in the decade. These efforts culminated in a successful general meeting in October 1888, which established the society's foundational structure and governance.

Founding Meeting. The successful meeting resulted in the election of a committee comprising a president, honorary secretary, and seven other members. The group agreed to hold regular meetings and create a program of events for unattached students, including a debate every other week. Hastings Rashdall, then chaplain of University College, was particularly enthusiastic during this gathering.

Identity and Name. A few weeks after the founding meeting, the association adopted the name St Cuthbert's Society, referencing the saint of the same name. The society developed a distinct collegiate identity through participation in sport. The university granted the society, rather than the unattached students generally, the use of facilities such as the common room and boat house.