Middleton Cheney History Society was formed in February 2008 and is an informal meeting place for like-minded people to discover more about the fascinating history of Middleton Cheney in particular; and national and international events that would have affected the rural area of South Northants. Everyone is welcome and it is hoped that our meetings will generate interest and lively discussion on a variety of topics. You don’t have to be a history expert to join us but if you are, we will welcome you too!
Membership is currently £10.00 per annum and meetings take place on the 4th Monday of each month at 7.30pm in the library (visitor admission £2.00 per meeting).
If you check out the heritage section of this site you will find several interesting articles about Middleton Cheney, listed below is the 2010/2011 programme.
HISTORY SOCIETY PROGRAMME 2011 - 2012
Monday - March 28th - Sulgrave, a Hidden Gem - By Thea Young (visitor manager).
Built at the time of Henry VIII we take a look at the manor house described as, ‘the perfect visit in the heart of England.’
Monday - April 25th - Bank holiday – no meeting
Monday May 23rd - Family History Research - Further Sources - Angela Malin (Chairman of Northants Family History Society)
Angela shares her expertise and knowledge of using the various historical documents available.
Monday June 27th - Barley, Beer and Barrels by Martin Way
This popular and entertaining speaker will deliver his unique presentation on the History of Brewing. Unfortunately we do not think Martin will be bringing samples…
Monday July 26th - Milestones and Turnpikes - Michael Knight
Much can be learned about old roads through looking at their milestones and posts. Many remain in this area. What were the roads like in the 16th – 19th Centuries? Why were milestones erected and why are there so many different designs? What was a turnpike? Michael is a founder member of the Milestone Society and will enthral with his account of milestones and the roads they served.
Monday August 22nd - Members Evening
An informal meeting where members are invited to bring along artefacts or other historical items, relating to the history of our village.
Monday September 26th - The Peripatetic Poor in the 18th Century - Deborah Hayter, M.A.,
A study of the surprisingly mobile lives of the poor in the 18th century, using records created by the authorities who relieved them or sent them on their way (with particular reference to Middleton Cheney).
Monday October 24th - Growing Up in a Railway Family by Raymond Wake from Far Cotton.
If you ever stood on a railway bridge to let the steam go up your trouser leg, this could be the talk for you!
Monday November 28th - A TUDOR CHRISTMAS - Martin Sirot-Smith
Martin appears in costume to tell us about Christmas in Tudor times. Its meaning, how it evolved and the customs and traditions of what was more a mid-winter festival than a Victorian Christmas
Monday December 26th - Bank Holiday – Merry Christmas!
Monday January 23rd - Banbury at War 1939-1945 – a study by James Tobin
Repercussions as a result of the declaration of war against Germany on August 14th 1914 quickly affected the life of the town. In all 2,161 men of the town served in the Navy, Army and Air Force and 325 men and one nurse lost their lives. Find out about more about Banbury at this difficult time.
Monday February 27th - A.G.M. followed by PARISH FUGITIVE TO LORD OF THE MANOR - Nancy Long (voluntary village archivist)
A short history of the Horton Family and their influence on Middleton Cheney.
Meetings are held in the Library, Main Road, Middleton Cheney at 7.30pm
Visitors are welcome