Programme of Meetings 2024-25

Month

Summary

Sept 20

 

Marie Corelli: The Life, Literature and Legacy of Stratford’s ‘Great Little Lady’.

2024 is the 100th anniversary of Marie Corelli’s death. In her day she was a best-selling author, now largely forgotten. This talk reveals her colourful life and work.

Speaker: Nick Leigh Birch

Oct 18

 

The Medieval Wall Paintings in Stratford-upon-Avon’s Guildhall

New light has been thrown on one of the most significant buildings in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, following a study of its medieval symbolic decorations.

Speaker: Lindsey Armstrong. General Manager, Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall

Nov 15

 

The Gunpowder Plot 1605

A history of the plot and local connections through personalities and places.

Speaker: Graham Sutherland

Dec 20

Christmas Songs Through the Ages: From Boar’s Head to Bing Crosby

A lively musical presentation of the history of Christmas songs.

Speaker: Dr Richard Churchley

Jan 17

 

The Phoenix Rises: History of Coventry

A brief look at how the different industries in Coventry have evolved out of each other from its 13th century trade in wool to being a centre for innovative design in the automotive industry in the 21st century. 

Speaker: Verity Tiff

Feb 21

 

Stalag Luft 111 1942-1945: The Great Escape

The Great Escape took place in March 1944 from Stalag Luft 111. Alistair Price tells the story of his father, Kenneth Price’s involvement in that daring plan and his life in a POW camp.

Speaker: Alistair Price

Mar 21

 

The Battles of Imphal and Kohima 1944

Between March and July 1944 British and Indian forces were locked in a desperate battle against the Japanese army. The struggle would be decided by two of the most decisive battles in British history: Imphal and Kohima. This lecture tells the story how the armies of the British Empire turned the tide of war in the Far East.

Speaker: Dr Spencer Jones - Wolverhampton University

Apr 18

 

Bruce Bairnsfather – Stratford’s Own Cartoonist

TA talk giving an insight into the life and career of the WW1 cartoonist Bruce Bairnsfather and his strong associations with Stratford on Avon and district.

Speaker:  Mark Warby

May 16

 

The Railways of South Warwickshire

A look at the history of the railways of the Alcester and Bidford area.

Speaker:  Stephen Godfrey

June 20

1816 - The year without summer

1816 The year without summer – If you think it won’t happen again, think again.

Speaker:  Dr G P Morse

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