Following the AGM which takes place on the evening of Wednesday 8 September 2021, we are delighted to have secured the services of Chris Corbett, from Teesside Archives, to recount again the fascinating life of William Gileard Brown.
Chris delivered this talk as part of Local History Month in May, and by common consensus it was the surprise hit of the month-long programme. If you missed it first time around, do NOT miss it again.To whet your appetite, Mr Brown was born in 1874, worked for the railways most of his life and lived in 7 Railway Terrace at Port Clarence with his wife Mary. He also had a massive impact on the community around him, in many ways, and when he died was described as ‘The Father Christmas of Teesside’.
Teesside Archives hold the William Gileard Brown Collection, a remarkable collection of books; part journal and part scrapbook, which document his life and achievements as a railway yard foreman, church goer, inventor, local councillor and a member of numerous boards and committees, dedicated to improving life for local people.
You will also learn about how William created a truly stunning eagle lectern for his local church, St John’s at Haverton Hill, which also served as a war memorial, and the mystery of its present whereabouts.Do NOT miss this fascinating talk, which will immediately follow the AGM, on Wednesday 7 September 2021.
Anyone wishing to attend AGM – taking place via Zoom – or to obtain copies of papers including Annual Report should contact the Secretary.
