Below is a list of upcoming SDFHS events. The listing includes both online events and in-person events planned for 2022. At present there are doubts as to whether the latter will be able to go ahead as planned, so please check in advance with the organising Group.
Searching for surnames: challenges, pitfalls and the downright ridiculous
Speaker: Kirsty Gray
Kirsty has been involved in the world of genealogy from a very early age. She researched her maternal family history and soon found the fascinating surname of Sillifant in her paternal lineage which she enjoyed exploring. Kirsty has continued from a rookie to a fully-fledged professional genealogist, business owner, heir tracer, TV/radio personality, Genealogy Show Director, and more besides.
Help, advice and tips
Members’ Self-help Evening
“Old Wimbornians” by John Guy
150 years of courtroom drama
Speaker: Anne Brown
Shire Hall, Dorchester, was the centre of justice and local government from 1797 to 1955. The courtroom was the scene of many famous and infamous trials throughout this period from the internationally significant Tolpuddle Martyrs to Martha Brown, said to be the inspiration for Hardy’s Tess of the D’Ubervilles. Particularly fascinating, are the stories of the ordinary Dorset men, women and children who found themselves in the dock during the 19th century. Meet young arsonists, resourceful smugglers and inept engine drivers, encounter an alleged witch, and enter the crime hotspots of Dorset! Anne is Learning Manager at Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester.