The East Africa European Pioneers' Society was inaugurated on the 22 July 1952; the first Chairman was W.G. Beaton. The aims of the Society, as set out in its Constitution, included "fostering the original pioneer spirit; establishing a Centre for the purpose of providing a meeting place for all members and for the safe custody of books, records and photographs of East African historical interest; fostering a pride in long personal association with East Africa and/or in being a descendant of a Foundation Member, and to maintain a record of Pioneers in East Africa whether members of the Society or not and to compile or assist in the compilation of their biographies". Another aspect of the Society's work was to provide financial help to "aged pioneers" in East Africa. The Society was dissolved in November 1964 and the last President of the Society was W.G. Beaton.