2026-2027 Programme

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19th October

David and Pam Humphries- St Chad's, Snow Hilll and Sterra

A stroll around a part of Birmingham that includes a jail, a hospital, a cathedral, gun factories and a once proud mainline railway station.

16th November

Stuart McPherson- Shirley Families

Their business activities, adventures and the great gold rush of Solihull Lodge.

21st December

Members' Christmas Meeting

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18th January

Keith Clenton- Lost Industries and Businesses of Birmingham

The talk and illustrations consist of the industries which existed in Birmingham at one time, consisting of Austin, BSA, Lucas, Wolsley Cars, Ansells, MEB, Davenports, HP and many more.

15th February

Quintin Watt- Over by Christmas, Black Country Civilians and the Outbreak of the Great War

This illustrated presentation examines the reactions of Black Country civilians to the outbreak of war in 1914. Was it 'business as usual' on the Home Front, or did war hysteria sweep across the region? Did the war bring out the best or worst in local people?

15th March

Robert Booth- Bournville Architecture, including the Churches of Bournville

Bob will share his own architectural favourites as well as showing pictures of Bournville's vernacular Arts & Crafts, 'cottage style' houses and their architects as well as architecturally significant aspects of Bournville's Quaker influence.

19th April

Chris Rice- Historical Northfield

An illustrated talk on the historic development of Northfield, highlighting the main (often hidden!) heritage buildings and other features.

17th May

Vanessa Morgan- The Families of Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House

Using old newspaper articles, the history of the families and properties are told.

15th June

Joint Meeting with Solihull Archaeological Group

Irene de Boo- The Golden Lion

An account of the restoration of this important ancient Birmingham building with details of the work of the Birmingham Conservation Trust.