2016 - 2017 Talks

In the 20th century few countries experienced such dramatic political, social and cultural change as China. The recently retired China Foreign Correspondent for The Times is well placed to offer an exciting new account of its recent history.

The evolution of an indispensable, if sometimes taken-for-granted, document.

New Members’ Reception – An overview of the types of tombs and brasses to have come down to us from medieval England illustrated as far as possible from examples in Somerset and Wiltshire.

This talk tells the fascinating story of pills and potions since 1850.

This illustrated talk will introduce the dynasty of the Samanids, rulers of an Early Islamic empire (819-1005 AD) covering modern-day Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and parts of Iran. 

Members’ Christmas Evening – Twentieth century historical pageantry, from its origins in Sherborne to the 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony. 

 A new interpretation of the local impact of war on the Church as seen through the eyes of the clergy.

This illustrated talk traces a vital theme in the economic and social history of our town.

From humble south-west origins, Ernest Bevin rose to become a minister in Churchill’s war cabinet and Labour Foreign Secretary 1945-51.

The momentous events in Russia 100 years ago are retold by one of our most popular speakers.

What John Foxe’s Book of Martyrs tells us about commemorating religious persecution under Mary I and Tudor women and religion.

Margaret Beaufort (1443-1509), unofficial ‘Queen Mother’ for her son Henry VII, was an eminent background figure in the Wars of the Roses and a great educational benefactress to Cambridge and Wimborne.