Celebrating 150 years of Société Jersiaise - Click Here to Look Back on all the Events & Releases

Blog Series

Cardomania: A Matter of Identity

This essay takes you on a journey through the rise of the carte de visite, the revolutionary photographic format introduced by André-Adolphe-Eugène Disdéri in the mid-19th century. It explores how these small portraits took the world by storm during the era of ‘Cardomania’, becoming a symbol of social status, personal identity, and a new form of mass communication. Along the way, it also highlights the impact of cartes de visite in Jersey, showcasing the work of local photographers like Henry Mullins and their role in making the format a commercial success on the island.

Read More

“Excavation is a human adventure where we can all learn from one another”

Last summer, a field in Mont Cochon became the site of an extensive three-week archaeological excavation and the discoveries made were fascinating. Directed by our very own Société Jersiaise Field Archaeologist Dr. Hervé Duval-Gatignol, the excavation uncovered some intriguing archaeological features and finds which could give us insights into how the land was used on the Island during the Iron Age.

Read More

Seas of Change: The Marine Biology records unlocking the secrets of Jersey’s waters

With something as vast and changeable as the ocean, pinning down the mysteries of ocean life seems an intimidating task...

Read More

The “exhilarating journey” of change, modernisation and the future of the Société Jersiaise

So, how exactly does the Island’s oldest heritage organisation stay true to its roots whilst keeping itself relevant in the modern day? That’s the question at the forefront of Société CEO Rebecca Bailhache’s mind.

Read More

The Canadian Red Cross parcels that ‘saved Jersey lives’ during the Occupation

Although he hails from Devon, Peter George is perhaps more knowledgeable about Jersey than many locals since writing in the Island’s indigenous language became the focus of his academic research.

Read More

Ès Jèrriais, en Jèrriais: The Société Scholar who taught himself Jersey’s indigenous language

Although he hails from Devon, Peter George is perhaps more knowledgeable about Jersey than many locals since writing in the Island’s indigenous language became the focus of his academic research.

Read More

The Polymath’s Journey

Arthur Ernest Mourant (1904–1994) was a pioneering biological anthropologist whose groundbreaking work in blood group serology significantly advanced our understanding of human genetics. Mourant's formative years were marked by a complex interplay between his religious upbringing and burgeoning scientific curiosity, ignited by childhood explorations of Jersey's natural landscapes. His photography captures both the beauty of Jersey and the essence of his scientific pursuits, providing valuable insights into his life. His collection, now housed at the Société Jersiaise, reflects his personal and professional journey.

Read More

Lithophilia: For the love of sound and stone

To mark the centenary of the historic excavation of La Hougue Bie's ancient chamber, the Société has teamed up with Jersey Heritage to commission a number of creative responses to this sacred, ancient site. One such commission is from Jersey composer Charles Mauleverer, who has created a site-specific composition that will be installed at La Hougue Bie later this month.

Read More