The Society was founded in 1924 with the same aims as today: "To study the antiquities of the area, collect material of interest, publish articles, go on excursions, hold lectures and stimulate general interest in the history of East Lothian".

The Society publishes biennial Transactions of articles covering a range of topics relating to East Lothian, as well as being the publisher of historic books. The Transactions and books can be accessed through the Society's website.