The Glasgow University Alchemist's Club was founded in 1916 with the aim of promoting scientific debates, particularly through its lecture programme and providing social events for society members. Membership was open to all past and presents chemical students and staff of Glasgow University. Membership rose from 26 in 1917 to 580 in 1971. In 1920, it was decided that meetings should be held fortnightly, as far as possible, and should take one of three forms; debates or lectures, visits to works of chemical interest and social meetings. Joint meetings were occasionally held with the Andersonion Chemical Society of the Royal College, Glasgow (later the University of Strathclyde) and with the Glasgow University Geological Society.
At least one general business meeting was held each year in the last week of December, at which the office bearers were to be elected. A council consisting of a president, two vice-presidents, six ordinary members and a secretary, who also acted as treasurer managed the Club. In 1921 the Council included two additional office bearers; an honorary former students secretary and an honorary treasurer. In the same year a sub-committee was formed to deal with all social matters, as well as sub-committees for amusements, re-unions and a dances. In 1925 it was decided to print a magazine called The Alchemist . To that end a magazine committee was set up. The council now consisted of an additional two office bearers; the editor of The Alchemist and the business manager of The Alchemist . In 1935 an amendment was made to the constitution which stated that at least three of the council members should be lady members. During the 1939-1945 World War, a sub-committee was elected to raise money for the Forces Fund.
From the 1930s an apparatus exchange appears to have been set up, with the hope it would increase the funds of the Club.
In 1938 a branch of the club was formed in London, England, for which the Glasgow branch disclaimed any financial responsibility. The club was still active in 2002 hosting lectures, social events and debates.
From the guide to the Records of Glasgow University Alchemists' Club, student society, University of Glasgow, Scotland, 1913-1971, (Strathclyde University Archives Strathclyde University Archives, and Glasgow University Archive Services)
