Description

When Roger Kemble left Hereford to find a troupe of actors in 1751 he completely fell in love with the theatre. He also fell for Sarah (Sally) Ward, the daughter of the company's manager and they were soon married despite her father's strong objections! But what happened next was extraordinary and led to the rise of a theatrical dynasty who were to dominate the English stage for decades to come. Their eldest daughter Sarah, became Sarah Siddons, recently hailed as "..the most significant actress of all time" while their eldest son, John Philip became known as "the first actor of the world". Their story is also part of Hereford's story and this talk will explore how it too played its part in the arrival of the 'acting profession' in England.

Price of Talk

£60,00

Description

This talk is available throughout the year. Duration 1 1/2 hours.An introduction to this ancient border city of Hereford, whose position in the borderland between England and Wales made it strategically important to the Saxons, the Normans and their successors. The location and founding of Hereford will be explored with stories of the cathedral, the castle and the city’s medieval defences.

Price of Talk

£60,00

Description

Born in 1821, Herefordian Alfred Watkins was the man who famously ‘discovered’ ley lines. But this was only one aspect of his multi faceted character. An amateur historian and experimental archaeologist, he was also a talented photographer, inventor, local activist and beekeeper. This talk will cover his birthplace, school, home and other key locations, and introduce you to the man who contributed so much to the city and county of his birth.

Price of Talk

£60,00

Description

Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians, daughter of King Alfred the Great, Anglo Saxon Queen in all but name. She was instrumental in restoring the Mercian territories seized and occupied by the Vikings, and she lay the foundations for the first unification of all England under her adopted son, Æthelstan. A woman in a man’s world, what kind of woman was she? How did she gain the respect of the powerful lords over whom she governed? How did she succeed where her father failed? This illustrated talk attempts to shed light on this fascinating woman and her life.

Price of Talk

£60,00

Description

An illustrated talk of about 45 minutes on a World War 2 aircraft crash in Herefordshire. The Halifax bomber was on a top secret mission and sadly all eleven men on board died. The cause of the tragedy was not made fully public until the 1970s. You will discover why. The project associated with the flight helped shorten the war and bring victory to the allies. It also left a lasting legacy which we all enjoy today.

Price of Talk

£60,00

Description

A city talk that focuses on the story of Herefordshire agriculture and the industries it generated over the centuries. The industrial revolution may not have left much of an impression but the farms and their produce certainly have. Hear about Ryeland sheep and Hereford cattle, bricks and tiles, gloves and hats, cider and hops, saffron and grapes. From the ancient forests that the Iron Age hilltop dwellers and Lord Nelson knew through to the polytunnels of today, take an alternative view of this historic city.

Price of Talk

£60,00