Bridgwater is set to celebrate its vibrant and rebellious past with the return of Bridgwater History Day on Saturday, November 8, at the Bridgwater Arts Centre. The event promises a rich programme filled with engaging talks, films, live music, and traditional food, offering a deep dive into the town’s unique heritage.
Running from 10am to 4pm, the day features presentations from eight local historians covering a spectrum of fascinating topics. Highlights include the Monmouth Rebellion, World War II recollections, Romani heritage, and the origins of Bridgwater’s name. Additional sessions will explore the town’s first waterworks, the lively Bridgwater Carnival, and influential figures such as John Pym.
Opening the event will be Mayor Kathy Pearce, with Brian Smedley hosting and guiding the day’s activities. Historian Chris Hocking will share his extensive knowledge of Bridgwater Carnival, drawing from decades of involvement including coordinating the carnival’s role in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant in 2022.
READ MORE: Huish Hosts South West Student Sports Showdown for Third Year Running
READ MORE: A303 Reopens After Rush Hour Crash Causes Major Delays
Romani history takes center stage with Phil Shepherd and author/Traveller advocate Maggie Smith-Bendell, who will recount life within Somerset’s Romani community in the mid-20th century. Attendees will also enjoy two short films by Miles Kerr Peterson and Tony Woolrich, co-editors of the Bridgwater History Group website, exploring local topics like the spelling of “Bridg(e?)water” and the town’s earliest waterworks.
Dave Chapple, a local author and trade unionist, will present ‘King Charles vs King Pym,’ examining the contrasting legacies of the monarch and the notable Bridgwater-born parliamentarian. Following a performance by The Chalk Newton Band, guests will be served a ‘medieval pottage stew’ lunch by Eva Kam of Mingle Café, a community café dedicated to reducing waste and promoting social inclusion.
The afternoon continues with an illustrated musical talk spotlighting historic instruments, followed by a reading from Liz Leavy, former mayor and teacher, from her grandmother’s wartime diary. The day concludes with Tom Mayberry MBE, ex-Chief Executive of the South West Heritage Trust, presenting ‘Remembering the Monmouth Rebellion,’ celebrating the enduring impact of this historic event.
Bridgwater History Day offers a comprehensive and lively look at the town’s past, blending education, culture, and community spirit in a single, memorable day.