Thatcham Historical Society

The Peter Allen Memorial Lectures (PAML) kicked off today, 5th May 2012, with local MP, Mr Richard Benyon, kindly giving an overview of the event, a background to the late Peter Allen and then introducing the talks. The event, now in its third year started with two talks on “Trades” with over 50 people attending.

A reception with local civic dignitaries, where people can share their memories of Peter and of Thatcham’s past. After the reception, local historian Bill Butler will present a talk on the history of religion in Thatcham.

• 26th May 2012,
• 6.30pm (Reception)
• 7.15pm (Talk)
• St. Mary’s Church, Church Gate Thatcham, RG19 3PN

Thatcham Town Mayor, Lee Dillon, will talk about the history that councillors have played in our past. Some of the more notable members will be discussed in detail. The second talk, presented by local historian John Trigg, looks at the Mount family and their progression from Thatcham to Downing Street.

• 19th May 2012, 10.30am - 12.40pm
• Memorial Hall, Brownsfield Road, Thatcham, RG18 3AG

Two talks are presented, one in which family historian Sue Broughton will present “Researching your Military Family History.” Sue will include several local families in the talk. In addition family historian Martin Farr will present “The Honeybun’s of Dorset.” Martin will describe this family tree, but also the pitfalls and hurdles that can occur. Alf Wheeler will also have family trees of various local families on display around the venue.

• 12th May 2012, 10.30am - 12.40pm
• Memorial Hall, Brownsfield Road, Thatcham, RG18 3AG

9th May 2012

St Mary's Aldworth - a historical seminar

Come and see what we have done in St Mary’s Church and listen to three eminent speakers explain the significance of this small village church and its contents – the Aldworth Giants.

We are delighted and extremely fortunate to be able to welcome three eminent speakers who will look at the history of Berkshire Downland churches, the history of St Mary's Aldworth and a presentation of what we have been doing over the last few months in the restoration of the "Aldworth Giants".