Talk: W. B. Gerish's folk tales of Hertfordshire

When the historian W. B. Gerish arrived in Hertfordshire in the early 20th century, he discovered a county rich in curious folk tales and enduring local beliefs. Fascinated, he went on to document these traditions in a remarkable series of 19 pamphlets, preserving the stories and sayings shared by the people he met.

This talk brings Gerish’s findings vividly to life, uncovering the strange, the supernatural, and the unexpected. Hear of witches said to have sown fear and chaos across Royston, a beloved giant who fought on behalf of the poor in Baldock, and many more extraordinary tales. Blending folklore with historical investigation, Gerish used his skills to trace (as much as he could) the origins of these legends, inviting us to question where myth ends and history begins.

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Matthew Platt is a curator at Hitchin’s North Hertfordshire Museum, where he has worked for the past 8 years. He loves nothing more than to bring local history to life through his talks and exhibitions.

Image: Matt created this image using AI to bring the case of the “Hartfordshire Wonder”, also known as “Strange news from Ware”, to life.

Why not make a night of it and enjoy a delicious meal at MITR, just a short stroll from the Museum at 41 Kneesworth Street? Serving vibrant, authentic Indian cuisine crafted with the finest ingredients, MITR is the perfect way to round off your evening. Simply show your event tickets to receive 10% off your meal.

Offer valid for three months from the date of the event. Booking is recommended, but not essential.