Local History Talks 2026

Next talk Friday 23 January 2026 Blossom Street through time A talk by Susan Major We're starting work on our next book project, this time about Blossom St. It's quite a short street, but it has much historical significance for York over many centuries. In this talk Susan will be highlighting some aspects, including the Bar Convent, the Odeon Buildings, some famous architects and well-known traders, such as Forsselius, Shearsmith's, Edwin Storey and the original York hams.

'Thank you for tonight's talk. Fascinating! Concise, accurate and left you wanting more, or at least looking at the area in a new way. What could be better?'

'As new members we thoroughly enjoyed the talk and the photographs last night and are looking forward to the next one.'

'An interesting insight not only to the Poor Laws in the 19th century, but also into how historical researchers work and the sources they use.'

'Absolutely fascinating talk, thank you.'

'Thank you! Great maps'

All talks this year will be held at Clements Hall, starting at 7.45 pm.

Please note we are unable to let you in until 7.30pm, because of earlier activity in the Hall. 

Friday 23 January 2026 

Blossom Street through time

Susan Major

Friday 20 March 2026

York Mystery Plays: the 75th anniversary of their revival

Margaret Scott 

Friday 22 May 2026

Micklegate and Bishophill in close-up

Catherine Sotheran

Friday 25 September 2026

York’s Inner Ring Road: 90 years on

Peter Thompson

Friday 27 November 2026

Sleepy sickness: the forgotten epidemic

Jenny Collieson

Changes to membership fees

In 2026 we will be offering two types of membership:

• Full Membership at £10 pa (with free entry to all talks)

• Online Membership at £5 pa (with links provided to recordings of our talks).

Non-members are very welcome to come to our talks, paying £3 per talk.

You can be an early bird and sign up for 2026 at our 21 November talk, about the Terry family.

Contact us by email chlhg.membership@gmail.com, or alternatively leave a note at Clements Hall.

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