Hello.

I am fascinated by maritime history, especially merchant ships, the 'tall ships' of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Inspired by my great-grandfather's first-hand account of his two years spent at sea, 1897 to 1899 from Liverpool to San Francisco, Cape Town and Chile, I have carried out extensive research, location visits and interviews to create a unique illustrated presentation about this historical voyage, its locations and some characters from the era.

Having worked as voyage crew on several tall ships in various parts of the world, I have created a second presentation about the three months I travelled aboard a tall-ship crossing the Pacific Ocean. This illustrated presentation encapsulates that voyage from Panama to Tahiti, calling at Galapagos, Easter Island, Pitcairn and the Marquesas.

New for 2026 - I have created a new presentation called: "Tales of the 19th Century Internet" which tells the story of how the Victorians created their telegraphic internet using a web of submarine cables, world-wide!

My talks have been given to various Cheshire history societies, WI groups, a library literature event, the TWG, even a wine club, with favourable press feedback: "An excellent presentation.” ”An absorbing and graphic account.”

Based in northwest Cheshire, I am happy to deliver my presentations to history societies and social groups in Cheshire as well as Merseyside, Wirral and North Wales. I’m also prepared to travel elsewhere depending on the distance.

The practical stuff: I bring my own equipment, projector, laptop with PowerPoint, extension leads, but I do ask for a screen to be available please. Tea and biscuits are always appreciated.

A little background: Now semi-retired, my professional life has been in teaching, IT training and support. I have lived in northwest England and London, and travelled extensively, on land and sea.

Information can be found at www.ianbellard.co.uk