The Society was founded in 1849 "To preserve, examine and illustrate all ancient monuments and memorials of the arts, manners and customs of the past, as connected with the antiquities, language, literature and history of Ireland."

These aims are achieved today through the Society's annual programme of lectures, talks and excursions and by the publication of its journal, which is received by all members.

The Society, through its council and country-wide membership, is actively involved in the preservation of our national heritage. Members are entitled to use the Society's library which contains books on Irish history, antiquities and archaeological and historical journals published in Ireland, Great Britain and on the continent.