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2021 PROGRAMME
2021, January 6th
Richmond from the Stone Age to the Normans
Michael Wood
From Stone Age man to the Norman Conquest, successive peoples and civilisations have left their mark on the local area. To start our series of 950th lectures, well known Richmondshire Museum historian Mike Wood will share what he has learned from a lifetime of researching and collecting local history. He has formed an interesting perspective on the early settlement of Hindrelac, which pre-dated the foundation of Richmond.
2021, February 3rd
The Norman Invasion and the Harrying of the North
Rod Flint
The transition from Anglo-Saxon rule to Norman dominion was marked by significant upheaval and defiance. Local writer Rod Flint examines the strategic motivations behind the construction of Richmond Castle and its vital role for the conquerors. This session investigates how the unique political identity of Northern England triggered the devastating campaign of 1070, challenging established narratives and detailing the harsh realities faced by those who endured the era.
2021, March 3rd
The Early Years of Richmond Castle
William Wyeth
Anticipating the celebratory 950th anniversary events slated for late March, we are pleased to host William Wyeth. An English Heritage historian with expertise in medieval fortifications, he unveils original research concerning the initial century of Richmond Castle, focusing on the architectural evolution of its formidable keep. This presentation features an introductory address by Anna Eavis, the Curatorial Director for English Heritage.
2021, April 7th
Richmond's Gardens and Designed Landscapes – Through the Ages
Valerie Hepworth BEM
Val Hepworth, a founding member of the Yorkshire Gardens Trust and former head of the Association of Garden Trusts, has committed her professional life to protecting our horticultural heritage. A dedicated gardener herself, she examines the historical development and cultural importance of the ornamental grounds and designed vistas that define Richmond and its environs.
2021, May 5th
Richmond and the Picturesque
Dr Véronique Gerard Powell
The aesthetic allure of Richmond’s urban and natural setting has long captivated artists, serving as a primary focal point for the Picturesque movement. Dr Veronique Gerard Powell, a local resident and former Associate Professor at the Sorbonne, explores how the Richmondshire landscape shaped British artistic preferences from the mid-1700s through the early 19th century.
2021, June 2nd
Swaledale's Fine Buildings – Through the Ages
Dr Jane Grenville OBE
Following a distinguished academic career at the University of York, archaeologist and conservationist Dr Jane Grenville is currently updating the Pevsner 'Buildings of England' guide for the North Riding. She discusses the legacy of Sir Nikolaus Pevsner's monumental survey, with particular emphasis on his detailed architectural observations during his 1963 expedition through Swaledale.
2021, April 1st
Trip: April Society Trip
Society Trip
The trip in April will depend on the pandemic and the regulations in force.
2021, July 1st
Trip: Richmond Castle Archaeology
Society Trip
Visit to the Community Archaeology Project in Richmond Castle (July/August).
2021, September 1st
The History of Racing in Richmond
Professor Michael Huggins
Dr Mike Huggins is Emeritus Professor of Social History at the University of Cumbria and has written several definitive books on the history of sports culture and horse racing. He has been the catalyst in the production of the new booklet by the Burgage Pastures Committee, 'A Short History of Richmond Racecourse and its Grandstand'. He will talk on the significance and importance of racing in Richmond
2021, October 6th
Richmond People
Jane Hatcher
Since 1071, there have been men and women born in Richmond who achieved much for the town and elsewhere. Local historian and author Jane Hatcher will talk about the characters in her latest book, which is due for publication in 2021.
2021, November 3rd
The Community Archaeology Project at Richmond Castle
Jim Brightman
Educated at Richmond School, local professional archaeologist, Jim Brightman, is a founding partner of Solstice Heritage, which specialises in historic buildings and heritage. He will round off the year with a summary of the early years of Richmond’s medieval settlement and will report on the Community Archaeology project in Richmond Castle. How did it come about, who was involved, what was found and how has it increased our understanding of Richmond Castle's early medieval history?