Lichfield: it’s full of historical stories and hidden surprises. Why not explore them for free with Lichfield Discovered?

I see that there Kate Cardigan from the wonderful Lichfield Lore is going from strength to strength with lots of upcoming events for her informal and fun Lichfield local history group, Lichfield Discovered. Kate has organised some great talks and events for 2014. These include some excellent folk, like Dave Moore, late of this parish, Sandfields Pumping Station expert and campaigner.

Remember, these meetings are free (but donations are welcome!) What’s not to love?

Kate had this to say about the upcoming meetings of Lichfield Discovered, which takes place on Monday January 13th 2014 at 7:00pm at the Heritage Centre, Lichfield:

Hi Bob

Our first meeting of the year is on Monday January 13th when Bob Williams of the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Ltd. will be telling us the remarkable story of the trust’s plans to restore the Lichfield & Hatherton Canal, how they came to be and where they are now.

At the meeting on Monday 10th February, we’re holding a session on Lichfield’s At Risk Heritage buildings – exploring their past, taking a look at their present state and discussing what the future might hold for these buildings. A local urban explorer is coming along to do a Q & A session on the work his group does in photographing and documenting places that are at risk of being lost forever. We’d also really like to hear from anyone who has memories or stories regarding any of Lichfield’s ‘at risk’ buildings, including Angel Croft, Sandfields Pumping Station, the old Regal Cinema, Davidson House and the pub most recently known as The Feria on Bore St. People are invited to come along and share their stories on the night, or to get in touch with us beforehand.

Both meetings are at Lichfield Heritage Centre and start at 7pm. Everyone is welcome and although there is no charge, there will be a voluntary collection on the night, with all proceeds going to the Heritage Centre.

Plans for later in the year include a history ‘open mic’ session, a springtime walk around Leomansley,an exploration of the lost estate of Beacon Place, an crawl around the old pubs of Lichfield, a tour of the Cathedral Close led by Rev Patrick Comerford, a picnic in the Monk’s Walk garden, a talk on symbolism in cemeteries and much more! I’ll send more details of these nearer to the time.

People can keep in touch with what’s going on via our blog, by following us on twitter (@lichdiscovered) and we’re on Facebook as Lichfield Discovered.

These events are increasing in popularity, and I can see why; this is a collection of dedicated but offbeat local history enthusiasts who really know how to make their subject engaging and entertaining. And it’s absolutely free to attend. What’s not to love?

Please do attend, it’ll be great fun!

Kate’s recent Leomansley walk was well attended and appreciated by all, although I’m not sure if the dog was impressed or not. Image from Lichfield Discovered.