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A Victorian Christmas

Dr Rachael Bailey-Gibson SpeakerNet Sponsor


Regions:
Essex, London, Hertfordshire
Notice Period:
Short (maybe less than one month's notice)
Type:
Historian, History
Fee:
Paid: £50 (including travel)
Category:
History
Updated:
7th October 2026

Before Victoria’s reign began in 1837, nobody in Britain knew about Santa Claus or Christmas Crackers. People didn’t send Christmas cards, and most didn’t take time off work. Then things changed. The wealth and innovation of the Industrial Revolution began transforming Christmas into what we celebrate today. This festive talk goes back to the nineteenth century to explore what Christmas was like for both the very wealthy and the poor. Christmas trees, cards, feasts—including the traditional boar’s head (curious why that tradition didn’t endure)—puddings, turkeys, mince pies, goblins, and a ghostly dash of Charles Dickens are on the menu. Plus, handmade toys, gifts, and stockings by the fire, and not forgetting Santa Claus and all his different looks, including one Santa who is simply terrifying! Come celebrate a Victorian Christmas. There is also a free raffle and a chance to win some gifts.

Views: 156 | Enquiries: 3

About Dr Rachael Bailey-Gibson

I was born in Brentwood, Essex, and have had a lifelong interest in nineteenth-century history. I have spoken at universities, public record offices, local history clubs, Women's Institutes, professional working men's organisations, and U3A's. I speak in Essex, London and the surrounding areas.

In 2023, I received the prestigious Future 100 Centenary Scholarship from the University of Leicester, where I worked within their globally renowned Victorian Studies Centre. My talks centre on Victorianism, from lunatic asylums and workhouses to how Victorians celebrated Easter and Christmas. All my talks are informative, lively, and entertaining. I bring my own equipment and can speak at short notice.

My talks last fifty minutes but can be easily tailored to fit your schedule. I always use a PowerPoint presentation with lots of images. I include entertaining activities, real case studies, and links to more information about the different topics. I also leave time for a question-and-answer session at the end.


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