Royal Geographical Society

UK learned society and professional body for geography and geographers

The Royal Geographical Society (RGS) is the United Kingdom's learned society and professional body for geography and geographers. It was founded in 1830 under the name "Geographical Society of London" as an institution to promote the advancement of geographical sciences. The society is headquartered in London.

History

The Royal Geographical Society was established in 1830 by a group of distinguished scientists and explorers, including Sir John Barrow, Sir John Franklin, and Sir Francis Beaufort. The society received its Royal Charter in 1859 from Queen Victoria, which formalized its status and mission.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the RGS are to advance geographical science and to promote the understanding of our world. The society supports geographical research, education, and fieldwork, and it provides a forum for the exchange of geographical knowledge.

Activities

The RGS organizes a wide range of activities, including:

• Lectures and seminars
• Conferences
• Publications such as the Geographical Journal and Area
• Grants and scholarships for geographical research and fieldwork
• Educational programs and resources for schools and universities

Membership

Membership of the RGS is open to anyone with an interest in geography. There are several categories of membership, including:

• Fellows (FRGS)
• Members
• Young Geographers

Library and Collections

The RGS houses one of the largest geographical collections in the world, including:

• Over two million items such as maps, photographs, books, and manuscripts
• The Everest Collection, which includes artifacts and documents related to the Mount Everest expeditions

Notable Expeditions

The RGS has been involved in many notable expeditions, including:

• The Nile expeditions
• The search for the source of the Niger River
• The Antarctic expeditions of Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott

Awards and Medals

The society awards several prestigious medals and awards, including:

• The Founder's Medal
• The Patron's Medal
• The Victoria Medal
• The Murchison Award

See Also

• Geography
• Exploration
• British Cartographic Society
• National Geographic Society