In the 1800s, the United Kingdom, especially the northwest of England, experienced a surge in the establishment of scientific groups. Many Microscopical and Natural History Groups formed during this time.
The Microscopical Society of London, founded in 1839, became the first group dedicated to promoting and studying with the microscope. It received its Royal Charter in 1866.
Oldham Microscopical and Natural History Society
The Oldham Microscopical and Natural History Society, established in 1864, continues to meet twice a month at the Lifelong Learning Centre at Oldham Library. The Society has gradually added its natural history collections and historical microscopes to Oldham Museum, now known as Gallery Oldham.
Organisations and events
World Microscope Day offers an opportunity to celebrate the microscope’s wonder and promote microscopy. Many events will take place over the weekend of World Microscope Day (Sunday, 13 April 2025). Here are some of the organisations and events:
The Oldham Microscopical and Natural History Society will hold an event on Saturday, 12 April 2025, in the foyer at the Gallery and Library in Oldham. We invite you to join us in celebrating the power, wonder, and impact of the microscope on our world.
Oldham Microscopical and Natural History Society (established 1864) holds indoor meetings in Room 2, Gallery Oldham at 7:30 PM. Contact Secretary Phil Whiteman at 0161 290 0722.
Quekett Microscopical Club (founded 1865)
Manchester Microscopical and Natural History Society (established 1886)
Microscience Microscopy Congress 2025, taking place at Manchester Central Conference Centre from 1st-3rd July 2025.
Manchester Museum of Science and Industry will host “Operation Ouch! Brain, Bogies, and You!” until January 4, 2026. Visitors can shrink down to microscopic size and travel through their senses.
The 21st International Microscopy Congress (IMC21) will take place in Liverpool from 28 August – 5 September 2026.
Let us appreciate, celebrate, and promote microscopy in all its forms.
