The Kingswood History Society

Pauls opening salvo “Who won the battle of Jutland?” a sea battle taking place in 1916 in WW1. The battle was between The Grand Fleet of the British based at Scapa and The High Sea Fleet of Germany from the Jade Estuary off the coast of Germany. Initially it was a trap for the Grand Fleet but communications were intercepted by the British by Room 40 (a forerunner for Bletchley and GCHQ). It was 15 inch guns of the British…

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Fresh from his appearance on BBC Points West, Oliver presented his research into this fascinating subject. His interest developing from his Great Aunt who married a GI. Initially following the Lend Lease Act (1941) US civilians arrived in Norther Ireland to support this policy. The first signs of the US military in Bristol were not until 10th July 1942 at Avonmouth. Indeed, baseball was reported in the Evening Post in September. In the early days these were black GIs in…

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A well attended event where attendees were hoping to relive their childhood memories. They were not disappointed by Martin who showed many old pictures of the zoo as well as an interesting and sometimes amusing dialogue. Bristol is the fifth oldest zoo in the world although small at 12 acres. Vienna being the first at 40 acres, in comparison. It opened in 1836 and has help save 175 species from extinction over the years. It is still involved in projects…

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David Hardwick, a member of the South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group, gave a very detailed and in-depth talk on the history of this last working mine in the Bristol area. A drift mine opened in 1954 and closed just 9 years later in 1963. Why did the mine come about ? Probably due to the NCB being formed in 1947 and had the finances to start up new efficient methods of mining. WW2 shortages of coal, Frog Lane miners available…

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Alan Clarke used his past studies to provide a compelling insight into this largely forgotten movement. It started in the 1830s although there were  concerns in the previous century. Famous paintings by Hogarth, Gin Lane and Beer Street depicted the era where beer was perhaps thought less of a problem. Initially you did not have to be completely abstinent but could chose moderation. Various acts exacerbated the volumes consumed. Firstly, reduced duty in the 1820s was introduced on order to…

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Professor Brian Vincent delivered a compelling overview as to the contributions made by this prominent Bristol family. It covered over 5 generations. The family had it routes in Pilton, North Somerset but moved to Bristol in 1780. Family members becoming publicans through the generations, Jolly Mitre (Queen Square), Plume of Feathers (St Phillips), Horse and Jockey (Marybush Lane), Packhorse (Lawrence Hill). William Herapath (1796 – 1868) was the main focus of the talk. Professor of Chemistry at the Bristol Medical…

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