Discover a part of Reading where department store and brick magnates left their mark and the bicycles for the British Army's first cycling regiment were made. This area has had a wide range of industries over the years. From the malthouses that sold to Simonds Brewery, to the iron foundries near the Thames. The latter served the railways and other light industries such as vehicle works and Cox & Wyman printers, who operated in the area for over 200 years. For many years this area has been something of a neglected backwater. Probably, one of the reasons a surprising amount of its heritage has survived to this day.
Join us for a short guided walk exploring the area’s rich history. The walk will be on level ground and will last about 90 minutes. This walk is led by David Neale of the Bell Tower Community Association. The association is itself named after the distinctive tower on the area’s school - E.P. Collier.
During the walk you will be shown historic photographs. This will help you visualise the Victorian street scenes and the figures from the past who shaped not only the local area, but Reading and even the country as a whole.
Numbers are limited, so pre-booking is required.
2 - 3.30pm
About Berkshire Family History Society
Berkshire Family History Society is a registered charity number 283010.