Speakers & Outings Index
THE GREATER WIGSTON
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
PETER COUSINS
MILITARY & FAMILY HISTORY PRESENTATIONS
“TOMMY’S MAIL” – THE POSTAL SERVICE TO THE WESTERN FRONT IN THE GREAT WAR
The postal system to the Western Front did not exist before the declaration of war in August 1914. The story tells of the huge logistical exercise to put a system in place and to get letters and parcels to the “Tommies” - much needed for the morale of the troops.
Approx. 50 mins.
ORSON WRIGHT
“CHAMPION OF THE PEOPLE”
Builder of South Wigston and many parts of Leicester! An amazing "rags to riches" story of a man influential in all areas of Leicester - and the story of his lasting legacy. From his early roots in Dunton Bassett to his grand houses in Wigston through his hard work and his vision of the needs of Leicestershire people. But not just a builder! Approx. 50 mins.
THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE 1914
The story of the truce starting from the outbreak of WW1 in August 1914, the recruitment of volunteer soldiers, and the days of entrenchment and life in the trenches leading up to the truce on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 1914. Approx. 45+ mins.
THE BOYS & GIRLS OF WORLD WAR 1
The stories of the underage volunteer soldiers in the Great War - some as young as 13! and the volunteer “VAD’s” – Voluntary Aid Detachment – nurses on the Western Front. Young boys and girls who volunteered in 1914 for their country for the conflict which was “Going to be over by Christmas!”
Approx. 50 mins.
WIGSTON’S SIGNIFICANT BUILDINGS, BLUE PLAQUES AND CONSERVATION AREAS
A virtual walk around Wigston on-screen covering over 300 years of building history, the stories on the people commemorated on the Blue Plaques, and the history of the Conservation Areas. Approx. 1 hour
STARTING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH
How to get started on an “addictive” hobby. Start from scratch and then a guide through the various sources available – at local, national and international archives and the Internet. Approx. 45+ mins.
NEW FOR 2025
THE LIFE AND TIMES OF NOEL CHAVASSE
The only man to win 2 Victoria Crosses in World War 1. The presentation will uncover the history of this amazingly brave man, son of a Bishop of Liverpool, who was awarded two Victoria Crosses and the Military Cross in World War 1. It will also detail other members of his family who between them were awarded over 30 medals.
Approx. 50 mins.
All talks £45 up to 5 miles from Wigston Over 5 miles £50.
All talks are PowerPoint presentations with laptop & projector supplied.
13 Langton Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2HT
Tel: 0116 2884638 - Mobile 07702 127313
E-Mail: [email protected]
