In 2008 Irene Shettle spoke to us about Lucy Broadwood and we are delighted to be welcoming her back to Newdigate. Irene’s talk this time follows the journey of the Christmas carol “Oh Little Town of Bethlehem” from its 19th century origins in Philadelphia to its publication in England nearly fifty years later with a new tune and arrangement in 1906. Her talk focuses on the life and music of Henry Garman, the elderly Surrey farm labourer who introduced two…

We are delighted to announce that Michael Gilbert will be returning to Newdigate. His subject this time will be the Festival of Britain in 1951.   Many will remember when he last came to talk to us in 2018 when his subject was the Great Exhibition of 1851. This was a memorable talk so we can look forward to another fascinating evening.

Julian Pooley the Public Services and Engagement Manager at the Surrey History Centre will be coming to give us a talk about Gertrude Jekyll. Gertrude Jekyll (1843-1932) was not just a gardener. She was an artist, photographer, designer and social historian whose work was highly regarded by her contemporaries and whose influence is still felt today. Julian's talk provides a brief overview of her life and achievements and discusses the wide range of materials relating to Gertrude Jekyll that are…