Autumn Potpourri of Online Social History Talks

When: Thursday 22 October 2026, 13:55 - 15:15
Where: Webinar

A close-up of dried rose petals in shades of deep magenta, pink, and faded yellow.

This all series ticket covers all three talks in the Autumn “Potpourri of Social History” talks series, for the discounted price of £12.50 (members £10.00). You may also book each talk individually – see each separate event page. All three talks are on Thursdays at 2pm and last about an hour. Afterwards there will be time for questions and discussion. This is an online talks series using Zoom. 

Thursday 22 October “Signs of the Times: Reading’s Memorials“: 2-3.15pm with Malcolm Summers

The stories behind Reading’s memorials bring the people and events of Reading’s past to life. This talk will describe aspects of the town’s history by considering some of its, often not well known, plaques, statues, and monuments. Even the better-known memorials have secrets to yield in the tales of their origins.

Thursday 26 November “A Timeline of Thames Valley History”: 2-3.15pm with Jim Donahue

This talk explains the layers of history that are around us, but not commonly known. Our speaker is Jim Donahue, author and prize-winning photographer of the book “The Thames Valley: Past, Present and Future”. The Thames Valley has played a surprisingly important role in the development of the British Isles as a whole. Jim’s stories range from evidence of some of England’s earliest prehistoric ancestors – to battles between Wessex’s King Arthur and the Vikings – right up to the present day, featuring the rock stars, film studios and high-tech industry that now make their home in the region. 

Thursday 10 December “Victorians at Christmas”: 2-3.15pm with Dr Richard Marks

Step back into the world of carols, crackers, and candlelight as we explore how the Victorians shaped the Christmas we know today. From Dickens’s A Christmas Carol to the first Christmas cards, decorated trees, and lavish festive feasts, this talk uncovers the traditions, innovations, and social changes that transformed a modest winter holiday into the season of celebration. Drawing on vivid stories and surprising details, it reveals how Victorian enterprise, literature, and family life gave birth to many of the customs we still cherish — and how Christmas became both a cultural phenomenon and a commercial success.

Zoom Talk Requirements

To join these talks, you will need a computer device with speakers. Ideally, also a webcam and microphone. You also need to be able to access the internet from it. First-time users of Zoom, will need to download a small piece of software – included in the link. 

How to Book

Pre-booking is required because places are limited. Full joining instructions will be emailed to attendees in advance. Bookings close one day before the first event.

To book – scroll down.

Full event details and booking

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