Bringing history to life

This Heritage Open Days, join us for four fascinating talks bringing the real people of our parishes and the everyday histories that shaped our villages back to life.

Friday 11th Sept: Learn about the village of Chilworth and those who lived there

• From the landowning Fleming family to Richard Searle, who rebuilt St Denys Church at his own expense, and sculptor Richard Cockle-Lucas - discover the people who shaped this Southampton village.
• St. Denys Church, Chilworth Old Village, Chilworth, Southampton, SO16 7NN
• 2:30–3:30pm

Tues 15th Sept: A Philanthropist, A Poacher and An Airman

• The stories of three very different men: Robert Thorner, Charles Smith and Wing Commander John Dewar, all buried in the same quiet churchyard, yet worlds apart in how they lived and died.
• St. John the Baptist Church, Flexford Road, North Baddesley, SO52 9DF
• 2:00–3:00pm

Wed 16th Sept: The Story of St Mark’s, Ampfield

• Discover the church built under Revd John Keble’s direction, the ideas that shaped its design, and the vicars who left their mark over the years.
• St. Mark Church, A3090, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 9BU
• 2:30–3:30pm

Sat 19th Sept: Stories about the First Ampfield Vicarage

• From penny-farthing adventures to wartime refuge, hear the human stories of the vicars and families who called the old vicarage home between 1841–1968, including the birthplace of Revd Wilbert Awdry, creator of Thomas the Tank Engine!
• St. Marks Church, A3090, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 9BU
• 2:30–3:30pm

Pre-booking preferred for all talks - booking opens on 27th Aug via the Hampshire History Trust