The Collection was begun in 1912 by Professor F.E. Fritsch for use by himself, students and colleagues.  In accordance with his wishes, after his death in 1954, Mrs. Fritsch gave it to the Freshwater Biological Association (FBA).

At the FBA, which received government grant-in-aid, the Collection continued to expand under the direction of Dr. J.W.G. Lund until he retired as curator in 2005.  Dr Elizabeth Haworth is the current Curator.

From 1989 to 2004 the Fritsch Collection was in the joint care of the Freshwater Biological Association and the Natural Environment Research Council (latterly through the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology).  The Collection is currently in the care of the FBA at Windermere, and relies on grant applications and donations.

Visitors are very welcome to visit Windermere, where the Collection is organised to be easily accessible to all users.  We are glad to help researchers, wherever possible.