The Linnean Society of New South Wales promotes the Cultivation and Study of the Science of Natural History in all its Branches and was founded in Sydney, New South Wales (Australia) in 1874 and incorporated in 1884. It succeeded the Entomological Society of New South Wales, founded in 1862 and folded in 1872, with James Charles Cox as its first president. The first issue of Proceedings was in 1875.
The establishment of the Society was largely due to the dedication and financial support of its first President, Sir William Macleay. Another important member in the society's early history was Joseph James Fletcher who was director and librarian (this title was afterwards changed to secretary) from 1885 and edited 33 volumes of the Proceedings of the society.
In September 1882, a fire destroyed the library and a part of the scientific material of the society. The efforts of William Macleay made it possible nevertheless for the society to continue its activities.
In 1903, the Society created the Macleay bursary which, has since helped of many students of the University of Sydney to continue their studies and to engage of the significant research tasks in the fields of botany, zoology or geology.
Other notable members include: