researching and recording the history of the Sorell district, south east Tasmania
We collect stories, photographs and artefacts that share the rich history of the Sorell district in south east Lutruwita/Tasmania – from Orielton to Marion Bay, from Nugent to Primrose Sands and the townships of Sorell, Midway Point, Dodges Ferry and Dunalley.
Learn about the people of this place, from deep time to today. Visit us at the History Rooms at Sorell Memorial Hall (Wed 9-12, Sat 12-3) and search our extensive online collection of people, places, items and events. We publish the Pitt Water Chronicles local history journal, host events from time to time, run a Facebook page and the very popular Sorell History SocietyFacebook group.
Formed in 1983, the Historical Society of the Municipality of Sorell Inc is a not-for-profit association with an active volunteer committee.
New members are very welcome (just $25 annual family subscription). Visit the History Rooms, come along to a meeting, phone SHS president Peta Kelly on 0437 588 848 or email us with a question.
From 1 January 2026 the new History Rooms are open twice each week and by appointmentThe new History Rooms and eastern entrance to Sorell Memorial Hall (laneway behind the CWA Rooms)The new History Rooms first opened to the public on Sat 20th DecemberAll Roads Lead to Sorell by Dawn Gatehouse – 2012 Sorell Art Prize acquisition (Sorell Council)The Toys &Transport exhibition in the new History Rooms at Sorell Memorial Hall, Dec 2025At the official opening L-R Jo Hopkins, Rebecca White MP, Peta Kelly, Colin Reed, Councillor Melinda Reed, Moya SharpeL-R Jo Hopkins, Jane Howlett MP, Mayor Janet Gatehouse, Colin Reed, Councillor Melinda ReedSorell on Stage members dressed as characters from their past showsSorell on Stage president Craig Cherry dressed to impressL-R Clr Melinda Reed, Colleen Mundy, Jo Hopkins (rear), Peta KellyJo Hopkins and Peta Kelly in the Archives RoomJudy Pearson with her work ‘Memories’ featuring WWI postcards from the Western FrontPeta Kelly and other members at the new History RoomsFinishing touches to the cockatoos in History Room North Pitt Water Chronicles Vol 4 August 2024SHS President Peta Kelly, editor Melinda Reed, Sorell Mayor Janet Gatehouse launching Pitt Water Chronicles Vol 4 at Carlton Park Surf Life Saving Club Pitt Water Chronicles Vol 3 June 2021Bicentenary of the naming of Sorell township by Governor MacquarieCentenary of ANZAC commemoration, 2019Judy Pearson won the SHS sponsored Sorell Art Prize heritage award, Nov 2018Pitt Water Chronicles Vol 2 May 2017Graeme Evans and Rebecca White MP launching PWC2 at Dunalley Community Hall, May 2017Dell Iles and Graeme Evans at PWC2 launch, May 2017Pitt Water Chronicles Vol 1 June 2015Outgoing and incoming office bearers, 2014 AGM (L-R) Tony Bruce-Mullins, Graeme Evans, Gwen Reynolds, Peter Macfie, Peta Kelly, Barbara Kregor, Cath GriffithsMrs Gwen Reynolds, Mrs Barbara Kregor and Mrs Catherine Griffiths at the January 2014 meeting of the Historical Society of the Municipality of Sorell Inc.
