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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Swindon Heritage Preservation
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260611T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260611T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093632Z
CREATED:20260128T121215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093632Z
UID:7735-1781206200-1781209800@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'The Missing Pieces Project' by Gareth Powell
DESCRIPTION:Gareth Powell from Historic England talks about The Missing Pieces Project. All over England are places with stories to tell: from buildings to battlefields\, some on your doorstep\, others just a day trip away. Their stories are still being written\, and they won’t be complete until you share your side. \nThe Missing Pieces Project invites you to share your pictures and stories of the unique\, significant and memorable places on the National Heritage List for England (otherwise known as ‘the List’). The List is a register of all nationally protected historic buildings and sites across England. \n\nWhy not join us June 11th 2026 at 7:30 PM at the Bakers’ Café? \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nBakers’ Café is at 16 Emlyn Square (SN1 5BN) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/the-missing-pieces-project-by-gareth-powell/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/fc139511-b600-4734-b780-9ce893d3621c.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260521T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260521T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093530Z
CREATED:20260126T180304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093530Z
UID:7702-1779391800-1779395400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town | SHP Talk by Colin Parsons
DESCRIPTION:Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town\nSwindon Heritage Preservation invites you to an engaging illustrated talk titled Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town\, presented by Colin Parsons. This event explores Swindon’s railway heritage through personal experience\, memory\, and local history. As a result\, it offers a unique insight into how the railways shaped both a town and the lives of those who grew up within it. \nA Personal Story of Railway Life\nColin’s talk focuses on his own connection to Swindon and the lasting influence of the railways on his life. Born and raised in a town defined by the Great Western Railway works\, Colin reflects on what it truly meant to grow up in a railway community. \nAs he famously puts it: \n\n“It has been said that people born within the sound of Bow Bells are true Cockneys. Well\, along with my twin brother Derek\, I was born within the sound of the factory hooter so I am a true Swindonian.” \n\nThrough stories like this\, the talk brings to life the everyday sounds\, routines\, and experiences that shaped generations of Swindonians. \nWhy This Talk Is Worth Attending\nRather than focusing only on dates and facts\, Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town places people at the centre of Swindon’s history. Therefore\, it will appeal to anyone interested in social history\, railway heritage\, and personal memories of life around the works. It is equally suitable for long-time residents\, heritage supporters\, and those new to Swindon’s story. \nEvent Details\nDate: Thursday 21 May 2026Time: 7:30 PMVenue: Bakers’ Café\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BN \nBakers’ Café is located in the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. It is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station only a short walk away. In addition\, several car parks are nearby\, including Bristol Street Car Park\, which we recommend for convenience. \nCost and Membership\n\n\nSHP Full Members: FREE entry \n\n\nGuests: £5.00 entry \n\n\nBecoming a Swindon Heritage Preservation Full Member gives you free access to this and many other talks throughout the year. Full membership costs just £12 per year and includes additional benefits. \nJoin us for an evening of memories\, history\, and local pride. Book your place for Growing Up and Working in a Railway Town today.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/growing-up-and-working-in-a-railway-town/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/5842565818_364700c754_b-e1769450559572.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260430T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260430T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093242Z
CREATED:20260126T165248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093242Z
UID:7698-1777577400-1777581000@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:GWR Volunteer Rifles – For Queen and Country | SHP Talk by Mary Thornton
DESCRIPTION:GWR Volunteer Rifles – For Queen and Country\nSwindon Heritage Preservation is pleased to present GWR Volunteer Rifles – For Queen and Country\, a richly illustrated talk by historian Mary Thornton. This fascinating event explores a lesser-known aspect of Britain’s military and railway history\, focusing on the Volunteer Rifle movement and its connection to the Great Western Railway. \nThe Story Behind the GWR Volunteer Rifles\nMary Thornton’s talk examines the origins of Britain’s Volunteer Rifle movement and explains why it emerged during the nineteenth century. In particular\, the talk looks at how railway companies such as the Great Western Railway became involved. For a company built around skilled industrial workers\, volunteering brought both opportunity and challenge. \nThe talk explores what it meant in practice for GWR men to serve as volunteer soldiers. This includes their equipment\, training routines\, and the expectations placed upon them. In addition\, Mary discusses the true “calling” of the Rifle Volunteers and the serious role they were intended to play in national defence. \nAttitudes\, Humour\, and Public Perception\nAlthough the Volunteer Rifles served an important purpose\, public attitudes towards them were often mixed. Therefore\, the talk also looks at how Rifle Volunteers were portrayed at the time. Satire\, humour\, and social commentary frequently poked fun at this form of soldiering\, even while recognising its patriotic intent. These attitudes reveal much about Victorian society and its views on duty\, class\, and military service. \nGWR Volunteer Rifles – For Queen and Country will appeal to anyone interested in railway history\, military history\, and social history. It offers a well-researched and accessible insight into how industry and defence overlapped in Victorian Britain. The illustrated format also helps bring the subject vividly to life. \nEvent Details\nDate: Thursday 30 April 2026Time: 7:30 PMVenue: Bakers’ Café\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BN \nBakers’ Café is located in the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. It is easily reached by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. In addition\, several nearby car parks are available\, including Bristol Street Car Park\, which we recommend for convenience. \nCost and Membership\n\n\nSHP Full Members: FREE entry \n\n\nGuests: £5.00 entry \n\n\nBecoming a Swindon Heritage Preservation Full Member gives you free access to this and many other talks throughout the year. Full membership costs just £12 per year and includes a range of additional benefits. \nJoin us for an evening of history\, insight\, and illustration. Book your place for GWR Volunteer Rifles – For Queen and Country today.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/gwr-volunteer-rifles-for-queen-and-country/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/3697771668_12d0b76d79_z.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260409T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260409T203000
DTSTAMP:20260204T124712Z
CREATED:20260126T161232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T124712Z
UID:7695-1775763000-1775766600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Lydiard Ghost Stories' by Alex Crump
DESCRIPTION:Meet Alex Crump\, a Swindon-based illustrator and storyteller with a flair for the creative and the curious. (Writing in the third person to appear remarkably grown-up). \nAlex is a proud member of the Association of Illustrators (AOI) and the Society for Storytellers. His career spans from high-profile media collaborations to international education. He works alongside TV presenters Anthea and Wendy Turner on their Underneath the Underground series and has even had his work utilized by local governments in India for snakebite education. \nCloser to home\, Alex is a recognized figure in Wiltshire. He famously curated the sell-out ghost storytelling events at Lydiard House Museum\, where he currently gives talks on the legends linked to Swindon’s history. He has also done work for the Great Bustard Group on Salisbury Plain. \nOff the clock\, you can find Alex roaming the Wiltshire hills with his family or attempting to play the guitar and mandolin (though rarely at the same time). \nWhy not join us April 9th 2026 at 7:30 PM at the Bakers’ Café? \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nBakers’ Café is at 16 Emlyn Square (SN1 5BN) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/lydiard-ghost-stories-by-alex-crump/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Alex-Crump.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260312T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260312T203000
DTSTAMP:20260216T093032Z
CREATED:20260126T154219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T093032Z
UID:7693-1773343800-1773347400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:New Swindon and the GWR | SHP Talk by Peter Timms
DESCRIPTION:New Swindon and the GWR\nSwindon Heritage Preservation is delighted to welcome historian and author Peter Timms for a talk titled New Swindon and the GWR. This event is based on Peter’s latest publication\, which offers a detailed and comprehensive history of Swindon’s railway town. As a result\, the talk provides a valuable opportunity to explore the development of New Swindon through the lens of the Great Western Railway. \nA Talk Based on New Research\nDuring the evening\, Peter will discuss the research behind New Swindon and the GWR and explain why this history is significant. Much has been written about Swindon before. However\, this work brings together the development of the town\, the railway works\, and the community in a single\, connected narrative. \nThe talk explores how the Great Western Railway shaped daily life in New Swindon. It also considers the relationship between the company and its workforce. Therefore\, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how the railway influenced housing\, employment\, and social life in the town. \nMeet the Author and Book Signing\nPeter will be signing copies of New Swindon and the GWR on the night. This makes the event especially appealing for readers\, collectors\, and local history enthusiasts. In addition\, copies of the book can be purchased in advance from the Swindon Heritage Preservation online store\, ensuring availability on the evening. \nWhy You Should Attend\nThis talk will appeal to anyone interested in Swindon’s history\, railway heritage\, and community life. It is suitable for long-time residents\, heritage supporters\, researchers\, and those discovering Swindon’s story for the first time. The presentation offers both historical insight and personal engagement with the author’s work. \nEvent Details\nDate: Thursday 12 March 2026Time: 7:30 PMVenue: Bakers’ Café\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BN \nBakers’ Café is located in the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village. It is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. In addition\, several car parks are available nearby. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park due to its close proximity. \nCost and Membership\n\n\nSHP Full Members: FREE entry \n\n\nGuests: £5.00 entry \n\n\nBecoming a Swindon Heritage Preservation Full Member gives you free access to this and many other talks throughout the year. Full membership costs just £12 per year and includes additional benefits. \nJoin us for an informative and engaging evening. Book your place for New Swindon and the GWR today.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/new-swindon-and-the-gwr-talk/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/New-Swindon-and-the-GWR-e1769510434403.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260219T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260219T203000
DTSTAMP:20260204T124237Z
CREATED:20260126T151005Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T124237Z
UID:7689-1771529400-1771533000@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'My Extraordinary Life' by Jack Hayward
DESCRIPTION:Jack Hayward is a 92 year old former railway office worker\, historian and long time resident of Swindon’s Railway Village (since 1968). As a prominent local historian\, he researches and speaks on Swindon’s industrial heritage and the town’s working class history.  \n“Being born in the 1930s\, my extraordinary life crosses the threshold between the Industrial and the Technological ages\, which is where we are now. It expands from my traumatic childhood through the second world war and into the world of Steam Locomotion to dieselisation at Swindon Works.” \nWhy not join us February 19th 2026 at 7:30 PM at the Bakers’ Café? \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nBakers’ Café is at 16 Emlyn Square (SN1 5BN) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/my-extraordinary-life-by-jack-hayward/
LOCATION:The Bakers’\, 16 Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN1 5BN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Part-2-Presentation-21-01-26-e1769507367493.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251120T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251120T203000
DTSTAMP:20250616T130146Z
CREATED:20250616T130118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T130146Z
UID:5457-1763667000-1763670600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Let's Go Shopping' by John Stooke
DESCRIPTION:Well known local historian and author John Stooke is fascinated by the way that retailing has changed in the last 20 years compared to what a little change there was between 1880 and 1990. Throughout these years\, food\, drink\, clothing\, homeware\, and hardware were delivered to the general public via small\, often independent businesses\, what Americans might now call now “Mom and Pop Stores” or alternatively via the slow emergence of Department Stores\, collecting together many specialties under one roof. \nToday Regent Street and especially Bridge Street are mere pale shadows of the bustling commercial thoroughfares that characterised Central Swindon for so much of the 20th century \nIn this talk\, we will explore some of the founding fathers of Swindon retail\, who in most cases\, are just distant memories. Including Levi Lapper Morse\, Cyril Gray\, William Gilbert\, Montague Burton\, William McIlroy\, Phillip Hawe Mason\, James Lott and Johnny Kane. \n“Let’s Go Shopping” with John Stooke\, is an illustrated history of those Swindon shops we have loved and lost\, small businesses that made our Town Centre what it was.  Why not join us November 20th 2025 at 7:30 PM at the Central Community Centre. \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/lets-go-shopping-by-john-stooke/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Lets-Go-Shopping-John-Stooke.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251030T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251030T203000
DTSTAMP:20251022T081009Z
CREATED:20251001T103528Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T081009Z
UID:6246-1761852600-1761856200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'The History Of Tarot' by Michael Gray
DESCRIPTION:The History Of Tarot by Michael Gray – For centuries Tarot cards have been used for fortune telling believed to manifest secret knowledge handed down from ancient times. For some they are dark magic to be avoided and for others a psychological system for self awareness and personal development.\nIn this talk Michael Gray will provide an overview of The History Of Tarot showing how a reading is made and a look at some of the historical card designs that have contributed to the Tarot myth.\nFollowing a review of the  Journey of the Hero through the lens of the cards\, there will be time for questions and personal readings afterwards.\nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/the-history-of-tarot-by-michael-gray/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/the-fool-6016940_1280.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251016T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251016T203000
DTSTAMP:20250901T072854Z
CREATED:20250901T072728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T072854Z
UID:5959-1760643000-1760646600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Swindon Works at War' by Jack Hayward
DESCRIPTION:It is 80 years since the end of WW2\, and 40 years since the closure of Swindon Railway Works. \nThe Works contribution as a war factory was colossal\, its achievements little recognised. \nWith the two defining factors of WW1 and WW2 leaving their indelible marks in the minds of Swindon Railway workers\, what was it like working during the Blackout? \nWhat role did women play in Swindon Works\, and why was it not a prime target for the German Luftwaffe’s heavy bombers? \nJoin us 7:30 PM Thursday 16th October at the Central Community Centre (SN1 5BP) for ‘Swindon Works at War’ by Jack Hayward. \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/swindon-works-at-war-by-jack-hayward/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Swindon-Works-at-War.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250918T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250918T183000
DTSTAMP:20250818T074630Z
CREATED:20250818T073937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250818T074630Z
UID:5852-1758214800-1758220200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'200 Years of Britain’s Railways in 14 Journeys' by Sherin Aminossehe
DESCRIPTION:The world’s first public railway\, the Stockton & Darlington Railway\, opened in the northeast of England in 1825 and marked the start of rail travel in Britain and across the world. Over the following two centuries the rail network expanded over the country and led to the construction of some of the most spectacular examples of British architecture and engineering.\n\nThrough a selection of 14 varied journeys\, 200 Years of Britain’s Railways in 14 Journeys by Sherin Aminossehe takes the reader on a breathtaking illustrated tour of Britain’s rail network\, taking in stations\, bridges\, viaducts and other architectural elements\, but also the people and personalities associated with them.\n\nSherin Aminossehe has been drawing since she could hold a pencil and is now a trained architect working for the Ministry of Defence and will be giving an illustrated talk about the beautiful and engaging story of Britain’s railway history and architecture.\n\nCost\nThis event is completely FREE\, starting at 5 PM Thursday 18th September. No booking required. \nSherin Aminossehe’s book ‘200 Years of Britain’s Railways in 14 Journeys’ will be available to purchase during the event. \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with bus stops and Swindon Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/200-years-of-britains-railways-in-14-journeys-by-sherin-aminossehe/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,HODs,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Sherin-Aminossehe.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250710T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250710T203000
DTSTAMP:20250521T113715Z
CREATED:20250519T074616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T113715Z
UID:5168-1752175800-1752179400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'GWR Park: A focus for recreation and sport in Victorian and Edwardian times' by Mary Thornton
DESCRIPTION:GWR’s Railway Village\, “New Swindon”\, was barely half-built and the Works still modest in extent when land was earmarked for a “park” in 1844.  \nWhat does this tell us about the Company\, its workers and their families\, and prevailing Victorian values? And what were typical Victorian and Edwardian sporting and leisure activities anyway? \nMary Thornton has been a Swindon Heritage Preservation volunteer for many years and can’t help digging into the Railway Village’s past. \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks for Railway 200\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/gwr-park-a-focus-for-recreation-and-sport-in-victorian-and-edwardian-times-by-mary-thornton/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/5-GWR-Park-Collett-Talk.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250605T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250605T203000
DTSTAMP:20250602T101203Z
CREATED:20250521T101204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T101203Z
UID:5241-1749151800-1749155400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Collett Revisited' by Graham Carter & Michael Roberts
DESCRIPTION:‘Collett Revisited’\nNew insights into the glorious career\, extraordinary life and enduring legacy of the Great Western Railway engineer. \nAn illustrated talk by Graham Carter and Michael Roberts \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £5.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks for Railway 200\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/collett-revisited-by-graham-carter-michael-roberts/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/5-GWR-Park-Collett-Talk-1.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250516T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250516T203000
DTSTAMP:20250428T085747Z
CREATED:20250423T134249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T085747Z
UID:4968-1747423800-1747427400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:‘Why are we nostalgic about railways?’ by Philip Garrahan
DESCRIPTION:Philip Garrahan will contrast Swindon’s reputation for railway engineering with its important social history. It was once a complete company town. When the outside observer could be forgiven for thinking the GWR and Swindon were the same.  \nThe new town was built on a greenfield site with innovations in its Railway Village\, Medical Social Fund\, Mechanics’ Institute\, Art School and much more. Our modern nostalgia about railways may overlook how distinctive Swindon was in the age of steam. It’s now time to reset the balance. \nPhilip Garrahan\, a retired university lecturer\, is editing Made in Swindon: A Social History 1840s–1940s\, which he plans to publish this year. \nCost\nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £3.00 Entry \nMembership\nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks for Railway 200\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \nGetting to Emlyn Square\nCentral Community Centre is in Emlyn Square (SN1 5BP) at the heart of Swindon’s Railway Village. You can view the location on Google Maps here. \nIt is easily accessible by train and bus\, with the Central Bus Station just a short walk away. There are several car parks available around the Railway Village. We recommend Bristol Street Car Park for it’s proximity to Emlyn Square. \n 
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/why-are-we-nostalgic-about-railways-by-philip-garrahan-2/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WHY-ARE-WE-NOSTALGIC-ABOUT-RAILWAYS-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250410T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250410T193000
DTSTAMP:20250310T105030Z
CREATED:20250210T115933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T105030Z
UID:4447-1744308000-1744313400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Why are we nostalgic about railways?' by Philip Garrahan
DESCRIPTION:Philip Garrahan will contrast Swindon’s reputation for railway engineering with its important social history. It was once a complete company town\, when the outside observer could be forgiven for thinking the GWR and Swindon were the same.   \nThe new town was built on a greenfield site with innovations in its Railway Village\, Medical Social Fund\, Mechanics’ Institute\, Art School and much more. Our modern nostalgia about railways may overlook how distinctive Swindon was in the age of steam. It’s now time to reset the balance. \nPhilip Garrahan is a retired university lecturer and is the editor of ‘Made in Swindon: a social history 1840s-1940s’\, to be published this year. \n  \nSwindon Heritage Preservation (SHP) Full Members – FREE Entry \nGuests – £3.00 Entry \n  \nBecoming a SHP Full Member gives you full FREE access to our series of talks for Railway 200\, along with many other benefits. Full Membership only costs £12 per year! You can learn more about Membership here (https://mechanics-trust.org.uk/membership/). \n  \nPhoto Credits: The GWR Railway Village – Martin Parry
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/why-are-we-nostalgic-about-railways-by-philip-garrahan/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Railway-village.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250409T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250409T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142214Z
CREATED:20241209T132453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142214Z
UID:4057-1744227000-1744230600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Swindon - This Is Swindon' by Andy Binks
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by The Swindon Society. \nFrom its very beginnings the Society has attempted to record the social history of the area as shown by the camera since the 1850’s. \nThe collection contains photographic material on many subjects including the GWR Swindon\, Swindon Tramway system\, Wilts & Berks Canal\, Swindon in both World Wars\, school groups\, areas of the town including Old Town\, Gorse Hill\, Rodbourne\, surrounding villages and much more. \nThe collection now numbers 15\,000 plus images and is used to illustrate presentations to local groups. \nMeetings are held at Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Park North\, Swindon SN3 2QN\, commencing at 7.30pm. \nThe meetings take the form of image presentations by members or visiting speakers\, followed by a free hot beverage and a biscuit. The annual fee for membership is £15\, which includes free entry to our meetings and a monthly newsletter. For ad hoc visitors\, the entry fee is £3.00. \nYou can find out how to join them here.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/swindon-this-is-swindon-by-andy-binks/
LOCATION:Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN3 2QN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Untitled-design-12.png
ORGANIZER;CN="The Swindon Society":MAILTO:info@theswindonsociety.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250327T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250327T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142223Z
CREATED:20241209T113455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142223Z
UID:4041-1743103800-1743107400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:‘Having a Robinson Crusoe in the Family’ by Graham Warmington
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by Wiltshire Family History Society at The Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, SN1 5BG. \nThinking of researching your family history – or need some help\, then you are welcome to join our meetings (free) or contact us on\nswindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk or 01793 822310. \n 
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/having-a-robinson-crusoe-in-the-family-by-graham-warmington/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2021-09-02_DuncanMandy_for_Swindon.1_crop_-_Sw01743-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wiltshire Family History Society":MAILTO:swindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250313T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250313T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142237Z
CREATED:20241209T113231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142237Z
UID:4039-1741894200-1741897800@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:‘Stratigraphy and Archaeological Dating Methods’ by Karen Adams
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted online via Zoom by Wiltshire Family History Society. \nThinking of researching your family history – or need some help\, then you are welcome to join our meetings (free) or contact us on\nswindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk or 01793 822310.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/stratigraphy-and-archaeological-dating-methods-by-karen-adams/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/boX12QrC43wHOdz7e5Bv0dc0dc.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wiltshire Family History Society":MAILTO:swindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250312T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250312T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142248Z
CREATED:20241209T132245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142248Z
UID:4055-1741807800-1741811400@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Let's Go Shopping' by Diane Everett & John Stooke
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by The Swindon Society. \nFrom its very beginnings the Society has attempted to record the social history of the area as shown by the camera since the 1850’s. \nThe collection contains photographic material on many subjects including the GWR Swindon\, Swindon Tramway system\, Wilts & Berks Canal\, Swindon in both World Wars\, school groups\, areas of the town including Old Town\, Gorse Hill\, Rodbourne\, surrounding villages and much more. \nThe collection now numbers 15\,000 plus images and is used to illustrate presentations to local groups. \nMeetings are held at Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Park North\, Swindon SN3 2QN\, commencing at 7.30pm. \nThe meetings take the form of image presentations by members or visiting speakers\, followed by a free hot beverage and a biscuit. The annual fee for membership is £15\, which includes free entry to our meetings and a monthly newsletter. For ad hoc visitors\, the entry fee is £3.00. \nYou can find out how to join them here.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/lets-go-shopping-by-diane-everett-john-stooke/
LOCATION:Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN3 2QN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Untitled-design-12.png
ORGANIZER;CN="The Swindon Society":MAILTO:info@theswindonsociety.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250227T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250227T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142259Z
CREATED:20241209T113021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142259Z
UID:4037-1740684600-1740688200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:‘Role of the Online Parish Clerk’ by Nigel Chalk
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by Wiltshire Family History Society at The Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, SN1 5BG. \nThinking of researching your family history – or need some help\, then you are welcome to join our meetings (free) or contact us on\nswindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk or 01793 822310.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/role-of-the-online-parish-clerk-by-nigel-chalk/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2021-09-02_DuncanMandy_for_Swindon.1_crop_-_Sw01743-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wiltshire Family History Society":MAILTO:swindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250213T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250213T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142307Z
CREATED:20241209T112741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142307Z
UID:4035-1739475000-1739478600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:‘The Development of the Police’ by Graham Sutherland
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted online via Zoom by Wiltshire Family History Society. \nThinking of researching your family history – or need some help\, then you are welcome to join our meetings (free) or contact us on\nswindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk or 01793 822310.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/the-development-of-the-police-by-graham-sutherland/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/boX12QrC43wHOdz7e5Bv0dc0dc.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wiltshire Family History Society":MAILTO:swindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250212T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250212T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142317Z
CREATED:20241209T132038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142317Z
UID:4053-1739388600-1739392200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Harold Fleming - A Man For All Sports' by Dick Mattick
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by The Swindon Society. \nFrom its very beginnings the Society has attempted to record the social history of the area as shown by the camera since the 1850’s. \nThe collection contains photographic material on many subjects including the GWR Swindon\, Swindon Tramway system\, Wilts & Berks Canal\, Swindon in both World Wars\, school groups\, areas of the town including Old Town\, Gorse Hill\, Rodbourne\, surrounding villages and much more. \nThe collection now numbers 15\,000 plus images and is used to illustrate presentations to local groups. \nMeetings are held at Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Park North\, Swindon SN3 2QN\, commencing at 7.30pm. \nThe meetings take the form of image presentations by members or visiting speakers\, followed by a free hot beverage and a biscuit. The annual fee for membership is £15\, which includes free entry to our meetings and a monthly newsletter. For ad hoc visitors\, the entry fee is £3.00. \nYou can find out how to join them here.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/harold-fleming-a-man-for-all-sports-by-dick-mattick/
LOCATION:Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN3 2QN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Untitled-design-12.png
ORGANIZER;CN="The Swindon Society":MAILTO:info@theswindonsociety.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250208T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250208T130000
DTSTAMP:20250113T140733Z
CREATED:20250113T140359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250113T140733Z
UID:4212-1739008800-1739019600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Choosing History II
DESCRIPTION:This FREE drop-in event is hosted by Local Studies (Swindon Libraries) at Swindon Central Library. \nAre you aged 14-18 and interested in history and heritage? \nAre you looking into GCSE options\, A-Levels\, degrees\, placements\, jobs or volunteering with an interest in history? \nCome and learn what roles\, options and pathways are available! \n\nSpeak to professionals working in museums\, archives and libraries\,\nCheck out information stands from heritage organisations\,\nMeet local heritage experts and hear the path they followed\,\n\nQ&A panel with heritage professionals at 11am! \nThis FREE drop-in event is organised by Local Studies (Swindon Libraries).
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/choosing-history-ii/
LOCATION:Central Library\, Central Library\, Regent Circus\, Swindon\, SN1 1QC\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/images.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Local Studies (Swindon Libraries)":MAILTO:localstudies@swindon.gov.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250206T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250206T193000
DTSTAMP:20241230T161735Z
CREATED:20240819T082646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241230T161735Z
UID:3293-1738864800-1738870200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:The Great Wall of Swindon - by Jack Hayward
DESCRIPTION:Where is the Great Wall of Swindon and why was it built?\nHave you ever wondered why this wall exists? \n\n\nThe Great Wall of Swindon flows like a river of masonry from west to east. It begins as a trickle from Rodbourne Road with a low wall of pennant stone. It reaches its full height at Bristol Street and continues towards the train station. – Jack S. Hayward \nJack Hayward has compiled his research on Swindon’s “Great Wall” which runs directly through Swindon’s Railway Conservation Area.Join us for an evening of wonder\, as Jack talks us along the history of the wall\, and the changes to the buildings around it over time.\nFree Entry for Members\n£3 for non-members \nPhoto Credits: Jack S. Hayward
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/the-great-wall-of-swindon-by-jack-hayward/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Railway200,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/35.-The-Wall-15-Sheppard-St-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250123T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250123T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142327Z
CREATED:20241209T111027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142327Z
UID:4030-1737660600-1737664200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Albany Ward; cinema pioneer of the South West by Ruth Butler
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by Wiltshire Family History Society at The Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, SN1 5BG. \nThe fascinating story of a man who recognised that the new world of film could be big business and by 1914 he ran the largest cinema circuit in the country. \nThinking of researching your family history – or need some help\, then you are welcome to join our meetings (free) or contact us on\nswindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk or 01793 822310.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/albany-ward-cinema-pioneer-of-the-south-west-by-ruth-butler/
LOCATION:Central Community Centre\, SN1 5BG\, Central Community Centre\, Emlyn Square\, Swindon\, SN1 5BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2021-09-02_DuncanMandy_for_Swindon.1_crop_-_Sw01743-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wiltshire Family History Society":MAILTO:swindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250109T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250109T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142335Z
CREATED:20241209T110522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142335Z
UID:4026-1736451000-1736454600@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:‘Posted in the Past’ by Helen Baggott
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted online via Zoom by Wiltshire Family History Society. \nA soldier killed in the First World War\, the man who helped keep the doors to Great Ormond Street Hospital open for more than 30 years and a 10 year old servant working for a laundress in 19th century Bath are all revealed by messages sent using the first real social media phenomenon of the 20th century.  Drawing on the research from her collection of more than 300 postcards Helen will share some of\nthe stories in an illustrated talk. \nThinking of researching your family history – or need some help\, then you are welcome to join our meetings (free) or contact us on\nswindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk or 01793 822310.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/posted-in-the-past-by-helen-baggott/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/boX12QrC43wHOdz7e5Bv0dc0dc.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Wiltshire Family History Society":MAILTO:swindon@wiltshirefhs.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250108T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250108T203000
DTSTAMP:20241209T142344Z
CREATED:20241209T131833Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T142344Z
UID:4048-1736364600-1736368200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:'Swindon Connections' by Graham Carter
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by The Swindon Society. \nFrom its very beginnings the Society has attempted to record the social history of the area as shown by the camera since the 1850’s. \nThe collection contains photographic material on many subjects including the GWR Swindon\, Swindon Tramway system\, Wilts & Berks Canal\, Swindon in both World Wars\, school groups\, areas of the town including Old Town\, Gorse Hill\, Rodbourne\, surrounding villages and much more. \nThe collection now numbers 15\,000 plus images and is used to illustrate presentations to local groups. \nMeetings are held at Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Park North\, Swindon SN3 2QN\, commencing at 7.30pm. \nThe meetings take the form of image presentations by members or visiting speakers\, followed by a free hot beverage and a biscuit. The annual fee for membership is £15\, which includes free entry to our meetings and a monthly newsletter. For ad hoc visitors\, the entry fee is £3.00. \nYou can find out how to join them here.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/swindon-connections-by-graham-carter/
LOCATION:Goddard Park School\, Welcombe Avenue\, Swindon\, Wiltshire\, SN3 2QN\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Untitled-design-12.png
ORGANIZER;CN="The Swindon Society":MAILTO:info@theswindonsociety.co.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241109
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241110
DTSTAMP:20240924T225620Z
CREATED:20240813T092833Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240924T225620Z
UID:3273-1731110400-1731196799@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Annual General Meeting 2024: Swindon Heritage Preservation
DESCRIPTION:You are warmly invited to our 2024 AGM\, with additional speakers\, tours and exhibitions. \nFollowing a very positive meeting in 2023\, this year’s AGM is set to cover even more as we share our strategy for the future and an overview of our work from the previous year. You can also expect updates on the Mechanics’ Institution\, Health Hydro and Cricketers\, as well as an overview of the recently completed Heritage Action Zone project. \nCricketers Restoration Tours\nWe have arranged an exclusive tour of the Cricketers\, highlighting our progress and sharing the work we are doing to restore this important building in Emlyn Square. We can’t wait to show our members how much their contributions have enabled the conservation of Swindon’s built heritage. \nThere is one tour before the meeting at 11am\, and another tour after the meeting at 2pm. Tours are limited\, so please book your space below to avoid disappointment. \nAdditional things to do…\nIf you are planning to make the trip to the Railway Village\, why not join us in the Bakers for a drink and homemade cake? This is a good opportunity to meet the team and wider community; we would really like to catch up with new and familiar faces. \nWe will open the Bakers from 10:30am up until around 3pm – when the final tour has finished. (Please note we will close during the meeting\, but you are welcome to take your refreshments with you to the Cultural Heritage Institute in the Carriageworks. \nSteam: The New Wonder\nWhile you are in the Bakers\, be sure to take a look inside the Snug which is currently home to Steam: The New Wonder\, an exhibition on the growth of the railway through Richard Jefferies’ eyes. This exhibition was curated by the Richard Jefferies Museum\, and has found a new temporary home with us in Emlyn Square. \nWorks Heritage Trail \nWe would highly recommend you check out the new WORKS Heritage Trail\, developed through the Heritage Action Zone project\, funded by Historic England and supported by partner organisations including Swindon Heritage Preservation. You can pick up a map from the Bakers on the day\, and browse the additional content on your phone. \nPlease RSVP below\, book onto a tour\, and consider joining Swindon Heritage Preservation as a member for as little as £1 per year. More information on membership can be found here. Please note\, only members will be able to vote during the AGM. \nWe look forward to sharing our work with you\, and to hear your views on Swindon’s Heritage. To be added to the formal invite list\, please contact info@mechanics-trust.org.uk. \n  \nTransport and Parking \nBy public transport: Swindon Railway Village is easily reachable by train or bus\, and we are only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station. \nBy car:  There are a number of Car Parks conveniently located around the Railway Village\, but we recommend using  Bristol Street Car Park.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/agm-2024-swindon-heritage-preservation/
LOCATION:Cultural Heritage Institute\, Station Industrial Estate\, Shed 11\, London St\,\, Swindon\, SN1 5DE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Talks,Walking Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/399092645_3700287966963917_5212913308207442260_n-2.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240907T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240907T173000
DTSTAMP:20240902T200621Z
CREATED:20240819T084017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240902T200621Z
UID:3297-1725726600-1725730200@swindonheritage.org.uk
SUMMARY:Connecting the Pubs in Emlyn Square by John Stooke
DESCRIPTION:Revisiting some of the alehouses that loomed large in the lives of the GWR community \nWith the coming of the railway to Swindon in 1841\, the locomotive repair Works and all that was to follow from 1843\, there came an unprecedented explosion of the working population. “New Swindon” was first centred on GWR’s “factory village” but accommodation could not keep pace with demand\, many speculative estates of terraced houses started to spring up close-by. The burgeoning\, heavily worked population needed places to drink – let off steam if you will! \nJoin us for a talk by John Stooke\, Author of Last Orders. Last Orders is the result of four years of meticulous research by John – and hours spent writing in The Blunsdon Arms. Well it would have to be a pub where John worked wouldn’t it? \nThis event is being hosted by Swindon Heritage Preservation with support of the Royal Agricultural University at the Cultural Heritage Institute. \nPlease enter Via the main entrance in Bristol Street Car Park\, Doors Open at 16:20.
URL:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/all-events/connecting-the-pubs-in-emlyn-square-by-john-stooke/
LOCATION:Cultural Heritage Institute\, Station Industrial Estate\, Shed 11\, London St\,\, Swindon\, SN1 5DE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Heritage,MemberFREE,Talks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://swindonheritage.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gluepot-scaled-e1724057016853.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Swindon Heritage Preservation":MAILTO:info@mechanics-trust.org.uk
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR