Curtain Up! Theatre History
16th March Adrian Tayler
This presentation charts the development of British theatre from the Middle Ages onwards, concentrating specifically on the story of the Lancaster Grand theatre (which opened in 1782) and the many and varied acts that have performed there over the years.
Visit to the Lancs County Council Conservation Studios
Wednesday 18th March 2pm . Cost £11 per person (£8 for concessions)
The visit starts with an introduction about what the conservation service does, followed by a tour of the studios where we will meet the conservators and see what they are working on at that time. The tour can last anything up to 2 hours depending on how many questions are asked, and will be followed by tea / coffee + biscuits.
Places are limited to a maximum of 14 and will be accepted on a first come basis.
The History of Horwich Works
20th April Derek Cartwright
In this presentation, we will hear the history of the Horwich Loco works which provided employment for almost 100 years. It was one of the most important loco works in the country and over the decades, 1,830 steam locos were built and over 50,000 were repaired.
Our speaker started work at the site in 1978 and was one of the last millwrights to be employed there.
18th May The Case of the Missing Body Live! Tony Cunliffe
We’ve all heard of the Turin Shroud, but is it an authentic artifact, a hoax, or perhaps something else?
In this compelling interactive presentation, everyone becomes a detective trying to unravel the mysteries behind the shroud. The audience will be provided with evidence from forensic science, historical clues and expert testimonies as the fascinating investigation unfolds.
15th June History by Design Chris Freeman
Tonight we will experience something completely different – a sideways look at how history and nature have shaped some of the things we may often have wondered about.
Our speaker will provide explanations behind some of the really crazy reasons why certain things are as they are.
Summer – date to be confirmed Trip to Lytham hall, possibly including afternoon tea. Further details will be announced at the AGM.
21st September Reservoir Navvies in East Lancashire Catherine Rousseau
Tonight’s talk investigates the documentary, photographic and archaeological evidence of the navvies who constructed the reservoirs around Burnley at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century. From disease to disasters, the lives of the navvies offer a fascinating view of social history.
19th October Florence Nightingale: Her Life and Legacy. Frances Raftery
This presentation describes the life of Florence, whose destiny was realised due to a surprising turn of fate long before she was born! Follow her life from her birth in Italy, through her determination to flout Victorian convention and to her horrific experiences in the Crimean War. Fulfilling her destiny, Florence developed her system of nursing practice which founded and established the nursing profession.
16th November Lancashire in Fifty Objects Speaker TBA
In commemoration of fifty years of the Lancashire Museum Service in 2025, fifty objects were chosen to represent the breadth of Lancashire’s History & Heritage. This illustrated talk choses a number of these objects to tell the story of our great county.
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