Talks and Presentations
I am very experienced at delivering talks on various historical topics, both in person and via Zoom. I have delivered talks for various organisations, such as the Wolverhampton Society, Bishops Wood Women's Institute, Friends of Wolverhampton Archives and others. I have several existing talks available, although I am happy to look at specific requests.
Lost Pioneers: Wolverhampton's Victorian Jewish Community
The Orthodox Jewish Community of Wolverhampton began in the first half of the 19th Century and would go on to establish its own place of worship, school and burial ground. This talk looks at how several fmailies of Jews from Eastern Europe overcame the odds to set up a thriving community.
An older version of the talk can be found below.
Wolverhampton's Jewish Community in the 20th Century
Continuing on from the previous talk about Wolverhampton's Jewish community, this installment takes a whistle-stop tour throughout the 20th Century. Beginning with the reconstruction of the city synagogue, the talk looks at a forgotten Jewish war hero, a pair of boxing brothers, the impact of the Nazi reign of terror, Zionist terrorism reaching the area, and the eventual decline of the community.
Love and Death in Staffordshire
This talk looks at two murders in Staffordshire, one which was solved, and one which remains unsolved to this day. Part one focusses on a tragic tale of two lovers, mental illness and the death of both parties. Part two focusses on a sensational murder of a young Australian man in 1914. The case would make national headlines for months, but was never sold and is largely forgotten.
Testimonials
"A fascinating evening - I was gobsmacked at such a detailed presentation of so much of my own family tree! "
"Andy's intriguing work included a vast amount of primary research into an area that has rarely been studied."
"This presentation received the most feedback of any talk we have held during lockdown - thank you, Andy."
Dr Anthony Joseph, Emeritus President, Jewish Genealogical Society of Great Britain
Quintin Watt, Chair, The Wolverhampton Society
Penny Smith, Chair, Friends of Wolverhampton Archives