Stratford History Group
Meetings: Second Thursday of the month from 10-11.30am in the Methodist Church New Room
We are a thriving group aiming to research into the history of Stratford generally, with particular interest in its architecture, the development of its buildings and the people who have helped to make the town what it is.
We have learned something of the Flower family of brewery fame, including their financial support for the first Shakespeare theatre and other Stratford institutions. We have had some enlightening speakers on a range of topics. Val Horton spoke about her book "It's not about Shakespeare", which reflects our attitude to the subject perfectly. Other talks have included the Tramway, Stratford street names, the Town Trust and the Spa at Bishopton. We have looked into the pubs, of which there used to be a far greater number, and visited Holy Trinity Church, the Guild Chapel, The Birthplace Trust, the canal, Alveston Manor and the historic Welcombe Hotel.
It all sounds somewhat serendipity, but we follow the interests and enthusiasms of our members and the topics they wish to research and tell us about at meetings. It's all very encouraging.
Reluctantly we have decided that the group has almost grown too big for us to know everyone, so we are no longer taking any new members. If you are interested in being on a reserve list, please contact our group coordinator via this website.