This talk will narrate the history of the Channel Tunnel through the 18th & 19th centuries, featuring the proposals that were put forward over this period, up to the final decision to build a tunnel.
Before 1909, there were no purpose-built automobile racing tracks in the world. All racing was carried out on normal roads. Hugh Fortesque Locke King decided to build the first track on his estate at Brooklands. The building virtually bankrupted him and certainly put a strain on his health. Brooklands also became the birthplace of British aviation, with some of the most famous innovators and flyers basing themselves there.
Background: Between 1816 & 1872 the Wey & Arun Junction Canal formed the final link in a chain of inland waterways connecting London to the English Channel; this walk introduces participants to the northernmost section of the former canal and the railways (defunct or still operating) that took its trade.
This talk uncovers a lost industry of the Adur valley – the making of salt. Rents were sometimes paid in salt, as it was such a valuable commodity. The farmers of the Adur valley would have known all about it.
Following SIHG’s very popular Zoom on Heath Robinson’s World Word One “inventions” earlier this year, we’ve decided to organise a museum visit.
Energy in the United Kingdom from the late 1800s to Today (with a Glimpse into the Future)
Our speaker John will give us a thought-provoking talk that looks at:
The industrial revolution created both winners and losers. In this talk, we’ll hear about on three men who clawed their way to success during the industrial revolution - while their workers in both mills and mines endured lives of extraordinary hardship
