Our History Events Programme
Since its inception, the Farnham & District Museum Society has run a well-attended events programme of local history talks, seminars, exhibition private viewings, book launches, visits and other events. Our popular talks programme allows members to learn about local history and socialise in a friendly space. Our captivating talks programme is held at The Garden Gallery – a tranquil location in the Museum of Farnham’s garden. Talks are typically held monthly in the Spring and Autumn, starting at 2.30 pm on a Friday and lasting about an hour. They are a perfect opportunity to meet other people interested in Farnham and the surrounding district’s local history in a friendly and inclusive environment. Suitable refreshments are also provided! Details of our events programme for the forthcoming period are shown below.
What the Victorian Railway did for you
Dr Richard Marks is a freelance historian based in Berkshire, known for bringing Britain’s industrial past vividly to life. With a PhD in History from the University of Reading, he specialises in industrial, military, and railway history, as well as the history of science. In his talk, Dr Marks invites you to look beyond the textbook tales and television tropes to discover how the arrival of the railway really affected Farnham. This talk explores the unexpected consequences of railway expansion: how it shaped local economies, altered social patterns, and sometimes disrupted more than it delivered. From bustling goods yards to bypassed high streets, the railway’s impact was far from uniform — and not always welcome.