A talk by Michael Burns

86 years on from the beginning of the Second World War, each year we lose more of the personal connection to events as they pass out of living memory. Oral History is a powerful resource to capture these memories and gain a glimpse into what life was like in wartime Co. Armagh from the words of those who lived through it. Michael Burns, Research Officer at NI War Memorial, will talk about his work with the NIWM's Oral History Collection and share the personal recollections of those who experienced the Second World War in Northern Ireland; including the Belfast Blitz, rationing, the American presence in NI and the celebrations of Victory.

Michael Burns is the Research Officer with the NI War Memorial Museum. He gained a First Class honours degree in History and an MA in History (Public) from Queens University Belfast and has worked for the War Memorial since 2017. Michael has interviewed over 300 people about their wartime memories. He is Vice-Chairman of the Federation for Ulster Local Studies, now celebrating its 50th anniversary of supporting local history in Ulster.

A talk by Dr Greer Ramsey

Some of the most important objects on display in the Ulster Museum have been found by members of the public. This includes, in recent years, those acquired under the Treasure Act (1996).

This illustrated talk takes us on a journey from finding an object, to appearing in the Coroner’s Court and explores some fascinating artefacts ranging from Bronze Age gold jewellery to Viking silver.

Dr Greer Ramsey is Curator of Archaeology at National Museums NI.

TO BE PRECEDED AT 19:30 BY THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

A talk by Dr Malin Starrett

In the last few years of the 19th century, a man from Kilmore in County Armagh carried out some remarkable experimental research in Dublin. He was studying the effects of magnetism on light sources by producing spectra and then observing and photographing the lines of colours. The results of his experiments caused a major challenge to the theories of physics, which only became resolved about twenty seven years later, with the idea of spinning electrons.

This illustrated talk will give a broad overview of Preston’s life and work, without getting too involved in theory – no specialist knowledge required. Some attractive examples of actual spectra will be shown to give the audience an idea of what Preston was studying.

Today, Thomas Preston is remembered in University College Dublin where he was Professor of Natural Philosophy 1891 – 1900. U.C.D. keeps some of his equipment on display and they have a scholarship fund named in his honour. However elsewhere on the island of Ireland and beyond, he is largely forgotten. Come along to appreciate one of Ireland’s most accomplished experimental scientists, whose life and work deserves to be more well known.

For over two decades, Malin Starrett, D.Phil., has been attempting to bring complex themes in the history and philosophy of science to laypeople through talks, presentations, practical workshops and making experimenting kits. His research on Thomas Preston began with scientific experimental work that then expanded to include historical studies on the work of Preston and his friend Professor G. F. Fitzgerald.

PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF DATE FROM THAT PREVIOUSLY ADVERTISED

Seasonal Readings

Join us for a cosy, slightly chaotic, and thoroughly festive evening of Christmas poems, readings, and songs, all brought to you by the most important performers of all – you!

Bring along a favourite festive piece – a poem, a reading, a carol, or that slightly dramatic monologue from The Muppet Christmas Carol (we won’t judge). Whether heartfelt or hilarious, well-rehearsed or discovered five minutes before, all contributions are welcome!

Mince pies will be plentiful.
Mulled wine will be flowing.
Christmas jumpers are optional (but highly encouraged).

No pressure, no auditions, just good cheer and perhaps the odd dramatic pause.

Come to read, sing, or simply sip wine and heckle gently from the back.