Bristol & Avon
Family History Society

On Monday 10th November the Bristol talk will be given by Andy Browning. The story of how an old non-descript sepia photograph inspired an epic adventure in an attempt to follow 80-year-old family footprints through the deserts of Sudan and beyond. Andy has dedicated the last 15 years of his life to off the beaten track exploration, seeking out adventures and experiences wherever they might be lurking, often with unconventional and embarrassing outcomes! Inspired by family history (specifically his great-grandfather), Andy has made a habit of travelling to the less visited corners of our planet, and by telling his stories he hopes not only to break down preconceptions and to make people laugh, but to also prove that exploring the world isn’t an endeavour limited to the rich and famous, but is something that can be accessed by everyone. This talk promises a very different type of evening.

At next Monday’s Bath Group meeting, our talk will be about “Family History from Education Records”. For centuries, education at all levels was provided, often free of charge, by churches, the State, charities, endowments, professional institutions and individuals. Our speaker, Dr Colin Chapman, will discuss how the surviving records can be an invaluable resource for family historians. The talk is online, beginning at 7.30pm, and is available to members only (joining details sent by email). If you are not a member you can join BAFHS.

The October Bristol Group meeting will be held in-person at Keynsham Library when Peter Lander will talk about the undocumented history of Birnbeck Pier, and there is a lot to tell. Please note that this meeting will be held on the 3rd Monday, 20th October, doors open at 7pm for the bookstall and helpdesk. The talk begins at 7-30pm. members and non-members are welcome. Venue: The Space, Keynsham Library, Market Walk, Keynsham, BS31 1FS.

Next Monday’s Bath Group talk is “Knowing Your Place” by Stuart Burroughs. Stuart is Director of the Museum of Bath at Work. The Museum has traditionally worked with local community groups to co-curate exhibitions and research projects as the museum moves from industrial and commercial themes to social and people’s history in the city. The techniques for engaging co-curators have included community alphabets, parish maps and rules for local distinctiveness. Learn how to gather intelligence from your community partners! The talk is online and begins at 7.30pm and is available to members only (joining details sent by email).If you are not a member you can join BAFHS.