Alberto Bioletti. Soldier of Napoleon and Master Clockmaker of Wincanton

by John Baxter

Tuesday 9 October 2018
20181009 Baxter Image 2
20181009 Baxter Photo

This talk explores the extraordinary real life story of the Italian soldier of Napoleon, Alberto Bioletti, who returned penniless to Wincanton in 1816 after Bonaparte’s fall. He came with his English wife Mary and three children having married her when a parole prisoner in England while serving the French General Boye. Here he set up first as a barber before establishing himself as a skilled clockmaker and father of a large family.

As a result of extensive research John has uncovered his truly amazing military career in Italy, Egypt, Haiti, England, France, Russia and back to England. The talk explores the dangers and disillusion Bioletti went through as he experienced the dark consequences of Napoleon’s campaigns and celebrates his personal triumph in Wincanton.

John Baxter graduated in History from Rhodes University, South Africa, Theology at Oxford and Philosophy from Bristol. After a teaching career in Religious Studies he qualified and worked as a photographer.  In 2017 he wrote Surviving Napoleon, Bioletti’s life in the form of an historical novel. He is a committee member of Wincanton History Society and Bruton Art Society.

More Upcoming Talks

Talks are held in the Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, starting at 8pm.

Complimentary tea and coffee are available from 7.15pm.

25 Sep
2018

Lies, Spies and Surprises: Berlin in the Cold War

by Major General Peter Williams CMG OBE

Tuesday 25 September 2018
A look-back at what made Berlin such a mysterious and intriguing city during the Cold War.
23 Oct
2018

The Foundation of Taunton and Somerset Hospital, 1809-1812

by Michael Davidson

Tuesday 23 October 2018
The Foundation of Taunton and Somerset Hospital (1809 – 1812), “A community effort, civic humanism in action”.