Monday Night Talks

Monday 14th September 2026 - A Brief History of Crime by David Moseley

Local prosecution associations were a method of controlling crime which was devised in the second half of the eighteenth century, fifty years before the introduction of police forces. They were a national phenomenon, and it is estimated that by the end of the 1700s around 4,000 of them existed in England. This book tells the story of one particular society: The Hathersage Association for the Prosecution of Felons and Other Offenders.

Hathersage is a Peak District village which came top in a Country Living poll to determine the ‘20 best hidden gems in the UK’ in 2021. The tourists who now visit the village in their thousands each year come as walkers, climbers and cyclists. Its grimy history of wire and needle manufacturing is almost forgotten. In addition to telling the story of its ancient prosecution organisation, this book seeks to illuminate some of the less conspicuous aspects of the social history of Hathersage by shining a light from the unusual direction of minor crime and antisocial behaviour. It also describes the lives of some of the village residents: mill workers and labourers as well as minor gentry, industrialists, clergy, and farmers.

Monday 12th October 2026 - Lady in the Bay Window by William C. Grave

In 'The Lady in the Bay Window,' William shares his experiences in gripping detail, recounting each spine-chilling encounter as it happened. He also includes a visit from a famous paranormal investigation crew and a local spiritualist medium who came highly recommended. Together, they attempt to unravel the mystery of William's haunted home.

Whether you're a believer or a sceptic, 'The Lady in the Bay Window' is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don't miss out on this captivating true-life thriller that will leave you questioning what lies beyond our reality.

Monday 9th November 2026 - Exploring the War Graves Commission Archives by Annette Parker 

Exploring both our Casualty Archive and the Commission Archive, we explain how you can research casualties and what we record. It also shows how to access the Commission Archives both in person and digitally, and highlights some of the documents contained there, explaining their historical significance.

Your ticket includes use of our refreshment station.

Monday 14th December 2026 - Christmas in the Sheffield Blitz by Janet Ridler 

The Sheffield Blitz changed the face of Sheffield city centre for ever. Over two nights in December 1940 the bombs rained down, thousands of people were left homeless and hundreds killed. The landscape of Sheffield city centre was changed for ever, it would never be the same again. This illustrated talk looks at how people lived, worked and played in wartime Sheffield, telling the story of the Sheffield Blitz through the people, places and events which form such an important part of Sheffield's story, and looking at how today's city centre has been shaped by those fateful nights over 80 years ago, if you know where to look.