York Scribes was established as a group in 1990 to promote calligraphy, illumination, and lettering through informal meetings, lectures, workshops, and other events. The group was aimed at participants across North Yorkshire, both beginners and experienced calligraphers. Pauline Hall, a professional calligrapher, chaired the group for the first few years before being made Life President in 1996.

An initial open meeting was held to gauge interest, which attracted 30 attendees. This group went on to establish the York Scribes and write a constitution. Membership later grew to, and stabilised at, around 60-70 members.

The group was established with the support of the London based group the Society of Scribes and Illuminators and of the Bar Convent's education programme. Meetings and workshops were held at the Bar Convent until 1993.