Historian Richard Marks invites you on a railway journey through Victorian Berkshire on the Great Western Railway. In this talk we will explore the arrival of the Great Western into Berkshire and what it meant to the people who lived and worked there. Why did Brunel choose to build his masterpiece through the county ? What were the first railway stations in Berkshire and why were they built where they were. How did the GWR change life in rural Berkshire ? Find out more in this talk
Views: 692 | Enquiries: 1I am a freelance professional historian residing in Berkshire. I specialize in industrial, military, and railway history, as well as the history of science. My current research focuses on industrial and social change during the Victorian era, the progression of Britain's railway and canal systems in the latter half of the 19th century, and the broader history of British industry. I earned my PhD in history from the University of Reading in 2024 and also have experience teaching a range of historical subjects to diverse groups.
My talks are suitable for different audiences and group sizes. I can adjust the length and format to meet your needs. My goal is to inform and entertain, and to leave the audience with a new insight and a desire to learn more.
My previous career in technology, working with British and international manufacturing companies, has given me a unique perspective as an historian.
Feedback from previous talks: "Richard had clearly done a massive amount of research and preparation. He is an excellent presenter very knowledgeable and engaging speaker. It was informative and thought provoking."
"I found the whole subject fascinating and wanted to learn more."
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