Greenwich Industrial History Society announces 2025 talk series

The Greenwich Industrial History Society has announced its 2025 programme of online talks, covering a range of historical and industrial topics relevant to the local area and beyond. The talks, all held via Zoom at 7:30 PM, will feature experts in their fields discussing their latest research and findings. Booking details and links will be posted on the Greenwich Industrial History Facebook page in the week before each talk.

Programme of talks:

• 8 April – Julia Elton: Severndroog Castle and lighthouses
  Julia Elton’s recent research has uncovered a previously unknown link between Severndroog Castle and lighthouses, shedding new light on their shared history.

• 13 May – Mary Mills: George Livesey – South London's revolutionary gas manager
  Historian Mary Mills will discuss her latest book, a biography of George Livesey, who played a pivotal role in shaping South London’s gas industry.

• 10 June – Mark Stevenson: Recent work in local sites of interest
  Mark Stevenson, Archaeology Advisor for Historic England South London, will provide insights into recent archaeological work in the area.

• 8 July – Ian Craig: The Watkins family and ship towage on the Thames
  This talk will explore the legacy of the Watkins family in Thames ship towage, including details on the preserved steam tug Cervia.

• 9 September – Richard Allen: The North Kent Line
  Richard Allen will discuss his research into the North Kent Line, with a focus on work in the tunnel between Blackheath Station and Charlton.

• 9 December – Alan Burkitt Gray: Scheduling the Enderby winding gear
  Alan Burkitt Gray will provide an update on efforts to preserve and restore the historic Enderby winding gear, including potential successes and future work.

Guided walk on the Progress Estate:

In addition to the online talks, a special guided walk will take place on Saturday 12 April at 11:00 AM. Led by John Kennett of Eltham, the walk will explore the architectural and historical significance of the Progress Estate. Participants should meet outside the Co-op at Well Hall at 11:00 AM. Those planning to attend are encouraged to notify the organisers in advance.

For further details and updates, visit the Greenwich Industrial History Facebook page.