Speaker: Maurice East Maurice examines the fascinating story of one of the most controversial planning issues in the history of Oxford – the proposal to build a relief road across Christ Church Meadow.  Maurice  was born and brought up in Oxford and specialises in researching some of the lesser-known stories about the city.  He also […]

Speaker: John Leighfield John’s illustrated talk looks at developments in mapping over the centuries, ending with the transformation brought about by the technological revolution of recent years. John is a director of GetMapping and a former chairman of RM plc.  John's talk is given in aid of Helen & Douglas House hospice in Oxford. Visitors […]

Speaker: Katherine Bradley Katherine describes the lives and work of some of the pioneering women gardeners who had a major impact on garden design, with particular reference to notable local examples.  Katherine is particularly interested in 19th and 20th century women's history linked to Oxfordshire. Visitors are very welcome to attend our meetings (suggested donation […]

Speaker: Mike Evans Mike presents the history of this part of north Abingdon from the time of Abingdon Abbey to its links with Klaus Fuchs and other atomic spies in the post-war period when the houses were built there for the families of scientists working at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment at Harwell.  Mike lives […]

Speaker: Mark Davies Mark presents dramatic and amusing incidents from five centuries of ceremonial circuits by Oxford's mayors of the city's boundaries which were mainly defined by its waterways. Although serious in intent, numerous pub stops often resulted in ‘high jinks’ and ‘irresponsible jollity’. Mark is an Oxford local historian, author, public speaker, guide, and […]