Local History Society Unveils Spring 2026 Programme
First talk is by June Ford Crush on Lord Burlington’s 'favourite bricklayer'
Richard Wright tomb by Kent St Nicholas. Picture:
Yale Centre for British Art
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January 12, 2026
The Brentford & Chiswick Local History Society has announced a rich and varied programme for the first half of this year, offering members a run of talks that span three centuries of local stories, global connections and newly uncovered research.
All meetings take place at the Chiswick Memorial Club on the third Monday of each month.
The new membership year begins on 1 January, with subscribers set to receive the 35th edition of the Brentford & Chiswick Local History Journal at the AGM in May.
January: Lord Burlington’s “favourite bricklayer”
The season opens on 19 January, when June Ford Crush introduces Richard Wright (c.1672–1734), the master builder so esteemed by Lord Burlington that he was honoured with a William Kent‑designed memorial at St Nicholas’ Church. The talk draws on new research into Wright’s life and family, and highlights the Friends of St Nicholas’ ongoing work to restore significant tombs in the churchyard.
February: Syon House and the shaping of North America
On 16 February, Syon House guide Howard Simmons explores the estate’s surprising influence on early American history. His talk ranges from the founding of the Colony of Virginia and the governorship of Jamestown to the visit of Pocahontas, the Northumberland family’s military role in the American War of Independence, and the later entanglements of Henry Percy with abolitionists and Native American leaders. Even modern political decision‑making, Simmons suggests, has been touched by Syon’s legacy.
March: The servants of Boston Manor House
The 16 March meeting turns to the hidden workforce behind one of West London’s great houses. John Collins, Historic Houses Manager, and researcher Maisie Whelehan share the findings of a recent internship project that has pieced together the lives of Boston Manor’s servants from the 17th to the 20th centuries. Their illustrated talk promises new stories and fresh archival discoveries.
April: Bedford Park at 150
The estate often described as the world’s first garden suburb reaches a milestone this year. On 20 April, Nicholas Bueno de Mesquita—long‑time resident and former Secretary of the Bedford Park Society—presents insights from a major community‑led research project marking the estate’s 150th anniversary. Drawing on newly uncovered visual material and historical records, he will chart the lives and contributions of Bedford Park residents across a century and a half.
May: Annual General Meeting
The Society’s AGM on 18 May will review activities from the final months before charitable registration and the first full year of the new charity. A short historical talk is expected to follow, with details to be confirmed.
Also this spring: West London Local History Conference
Members may also be interested in the 46th West London Local History Conference, taking place at Duke Street Church, Richmond, on 5 April. This year’s theme, Shopping is never done – High Streets Down the Decades, examines the evolution of local retail life. Tickets (£15) will be available soon via TicketSource.
Membership of the Brentford & Chiswick Local History Society ensures that you receive details of the Society’s programme of talks and outings and entitles you to a copy of the annual Journal. From time to time there are opportunities to join a small research group or assist with a local history project.
Meetings, usually on the third Monday of the month, take place at Chiswick Memorial Club, Bourne Place, off Dukes Avenue opposite Chiswick Library. The membership year runs from January to December and the annual subscription costs £15 or £20 for two people at the same address .
If you wish to join, either come along to one of the meetings, or print off, complete and send the membership form with your details and cheque for payment, or if you wish to use your credit or debit card through PayPal, click here but also send an email to membership@brentfordandchiswicklhs.org.uk giving your name, address, phone number, and confirmation that the society may contact you by email in the future.
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