Who are we?
The Ithacan Historical Society aims to promote the history of the island of Ithaca in the Ionian Sea, its region, and its people, from antiquity to modern times. The Society is active in Australia and Greece and has members across the world.
Read about our Mission here.
Our story
The Ithacan Historical Society belongs to a broader network of Ithacesians (or ‘Ithacans’) in Australia. The IHS was, and remains, closely tied with the Ithacan Philanthropic Society which was founded in Melbourne in 1916 by pioneering members of the Greek community. The IPS is one of the oldest organisations of its kind in Australia.
The Ithacan presence in Melbourne was strong in the Greek community in the late 19th and early 20th century. In 1897, the Greek Community of Melbourne was established, a society mainly organised and controlled by Ithacesians of Melbourne for many years.
The IHS was founded in 1993 to promote the cultural activities of Ithacesians in Melbourne, and to support activities in Ithaca.
Read more about Ithacan migration stories here.
Governance
The IHS is governed by a Committee with officers elected biannually at alternating Annual General Meetings. We welcome and encourage members of the IHS to join Committee meetings, to listen to our plans and contribute their ideas.
Our Management Committee
Our committee members bring diverse expertise, united by a passion for the history of Ithaca. The current Committee is formed by:
Peter Raftopoulos President
Kyriaco Nikias Vice President
Athena Connock Secretary
James Morris Treasurer
Greg Deftereos
Nick Galatis
Christine Georgopoulos
Leah Koutsounis
John Paizis
Andrew Raftopoulos
Would you like to get involved?
We are always welcoming of new members, who are passionate about Ithaca and who wish to get involved! Please get in touch with us, or sign up as a member.