The minute book of the Chemical Industry Club (of the Society of Chemical Industry), from its inception in 1916 to 1927, with signatures of officials, and printed material inserted.

Folio, circa 360 pp. Label of the stationers E. B. Horwood & Co. Ltd. In sturdy half-calf binding, with red leather label stamped 'MINUTE BOOK' on spine. Text clear and complete. Internally tight, on lightly-aged paper with slight damp staining at foot. Binding worn and with damp damage to back board. Titled 'Society of Chemical Industry | Chemical Industry Club', and with manuscript note on flyleaf by 'G. S. , dated 20 October 1976: '1916-1927 | This minute book was held in safe keeping, first at No 2 and subsequently at No 4, Whitehall Court until Oct 1976, when it was removed consequent on the proposed move of the Club from its premises'. The minutes are signed by the committee members present, many of whom are figures in high standing in the British chemical industry. First entry is headed 'First meeting of the London Section Club Committee, held at Broadway Chambers on Friday December 29. 1916 | Present:- Mr. A. R. Ling, in the Chair, Messers. Colley, Dewar, Howard, and the Hon. Sec: | The Chairman reviewed the circumstances leading up to the formation of this Committee, and reminded the Members that it was the outcome of a resolution agreed to unanimously at the informal meeting of the Section held on Dec. 19th. at the Birkbeck Cafe.' Over the next few meetings rules, financial arrangements and other matters are settled, and on 24 July 1917 it is decided that there should be a 'Club evening with no fixed Programme, but to arrange for certain Members to open & carry on a Debate on the subject of the reasons for the lack of cohesion amongst Chemists & Chemical Manufacturers in this Country under the title of "What is the matter with us?"' A printed 'Report of the Committee for the Year ended August 30, 1921' is the first of a number of printed reports and financial accounts laid down in the volume. At this point the Honorary Secretary is H. Edwin Coley, and the number of members stands at 757. By the time of the last printed 'Report of the Executive Committee for the Year 1926-27' the Honorary Secretary is E. H. Tripp, and the membership stands at 722.