As Everton prepare for one of the biggest games in the club’s history, one group that has taken responsibility for preserving that past is thinking about its future.
Everton Heritage Society (EHS) plays an important role in collating and sharing the stories of one of the world’s most storied clubs.
But with the club’s move to the Liverpool waterfront looming, members are starting to think about life beyond the group’s base within the vibrant matchday offering at St Luke’s Church, on the corner of Goodison Road. As a result, the EHS is now seeking the help of fans as it plots its next steps.
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Formed 15 years ago, the society has grown its profile as it has built its collection of stories, memorabilia and role within the community that surrounds Everton Football Club. Its website is a treasure trove of biographies of former stars and chronicles of the trophies won and the exploits of the heroes who led the club to that glory.
A new milestone was reached in the society’s activity recently with the production of its first film - the subject being Thomas Keates, an early director of Everton FC and author of the first history of the club.
The society is looking to expand its work and members are now keen to know how they can reach more people most effectively - whether it be through hosting events, potentially with ex-players, creating specialist podcasts or making more films. They also want to know how much support there would be for the society to have a presence around the club’s new stadium once it is open.
Rob Sawyer is part of the EHS and among those who is now urging supporters to complete a survey that could define the group’s future approach. He explained: “We are looking at the future and we want to listen to what people who interact with us to hear how they want us to evolve. We want to stay relevant and we want to draw in all sections of the fanbase to find out what would get them interested and engaged going forward. With the ground move approaching it feels like a good time to see what Everton fans like and what they want us to do in the future.”
Paper copies of the EHS survey will be handed out before Everton's game with Bournemouth while you can also complete it here.
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