List of talks



NEW FOR 2012      THE TOWN CENTRE AS A LEISURE SPACE 
As many town centres struggle for survival  
a look at the leisure aspect of town centres

THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR 
- A BRITISH PERSPECTIVE
To mark 150th anniversary of the outbreak of the American Civil War
How life in the UK was influenced by events across the Atlantic

THE HISTORY OF THE PACKAGE HOLIDAY
Looks at holiday habits from 19th century to present time
Can be adapted to focus on years before WWII or after

FROM THE WRIGHT BROTHERS TO THE LOW COST AIRLINE
A history of civil air transport development including flying boats & airships

THE LURE OF THE SEA
How the sea became a focus for leisure and the changing fortunes of the seaside resort

GUIDEBOOKS THROUGH THE AGES
A review of literature aimed at helping the traveller over the centuries

1960-2010 - A GOLDEN AGE OF TRAVEL - IS IT OVER?
Questions if the growth of travel in recent decades can continue

THOMAS COOK'S 19TH CENTURY COMPETITORS
A look at some forgotten travel pioneers including the Henry Gaze business

WHAT IS HERITAGE?
An overused term - what does it really include?

THE FUTURE OF THE TOWN CENTRE - IS THERE ONE?
How towns evolve, change and even die

TAKING THE WATERS - A LOOK AT SPA RESORTS
Social history of the health tourist from the Romans to the modern health farm

AMERICA IN BRITAIN
Topographical look at links between UK & USA

JAMES SMITHSON & THE SMITHSONIAN
The story of the man whose legacy founded one of the World's premier museums

THE BURTON BROTHERS OF LINDLEY
17th century brothers from Leicestershire; one an antiquary, the other famous for his Anatomy of Melancholy

FLORIDA BEFORE DISNEY
History of the popular tourist destination from 16th century to arrival of the theme park

THE LONDON VIRGINIA COMPANY 1606-24
The story behind the foundation of Jamestown (first permanent British settlement in North America) - can be adapted to focus on investors in the colony from specific UK regions

THE STORY OF MARYLAND
Relates the early history of the only US state with coats of arms 
of two English families on its flag