[2] On 25 August 1835 a small group of men, already committed to the total abstinence of alcohol, met in Mrs Meadowcroft's Temperance Hotel, Bolton Street, Salford in order to discuss a friendly society for those who had "signed the pledge" and abstained from alcohol.

From its first procession on New Year's Day in 1836 the organisation grew rapidly with local groups known as "tents" being formed throughout the country.

In 2004 the Society developed further and opened its membership to include temperate members or those who "enjoy alcohol in moderation".

It remains true to its founders' principles and avoids direct investment in companies in alcohol, arms and tobacco industries and in gambling and pornography providers.

Its members are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) which guarantees investors 100% of all their investment with the Society without limit.