AT the April meeting of the Atworth History Group chairman, Gervase O’Donohoe, gave a talk entitled A history of Atworth from the Romans to the third millennium.
This was the culmination of a project to pull together all the research that has been done by the group as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
One of the organisers, David, said, “This fascinating talk showed how Atworth has changed over the years; from the road layout to the diversity of trades in the village. We discovered how life in the village changed with the coming of public transport, and services such as mains water, gas and electricity. In 1922 the Mendip Motor and Engineering Works opened in the village, and one of its founders, George Thatcher, played a part in the design of the Spitfire, and hence changed the course of WWII.
“We are pleased to announce that Gervase will repeat this talk twice more so that any non-members who are interested can come and learn about the history of Atworth. The dates are: Saturday 24th June at 2:30pm and Monday 3rd July at 7:30pm. These talks will take place in Atworth Village Hall, and entry will be free.
“On 8th May we welcomed Claire Mills who gave a talk about the history of Box, and on Monday 5th June John Girvan, a noted historian from Devizes, will give a talk about the craft of the blacksmith.
“We meet in Atworth Village Hall at 7:30pm. Visitors are very welcome at the modest cost of £5 for the evening, or you may wish to join for an annual subscription of £15.
“Also, the Atworth museum on Bradford Road has been extended and tidied up, and will be open on Sunday 28th May from 2pm to 4pm. Everyone is welcome – just look out for the board at the museum entrance (to the right of The Old Forge).”
