Everyday Life & Fatal History in 16th Century Oxfordshire
Tudor England was a dangerous place. There were plagues and wars, perilous childbirths and shocking infant mortality. But what risks did people face as they went about their everyday lives?
Using evidence from coroners’ reports preserved in the National Archives this talk explores the history of everyday life, and everyday death. Farming, building and travel were dangerous. Fruit trees killed more people than guns and sheep killed about the same number as coal mines. Men stabbed themselves playing football and women drowned in their hundreds fetching water. From bear attacks in North Oxford to a bowls-on-ice incident on the Thames, this talk brings the stories of common folk back into the big picture of Tudor England, bringing the reality of their world to life and never before.
- Refreshments: Tea and coffee will be available.
- Raffle: Join in for a chance to win a prize and help support the society.
- Easy Access: There is a large free car park directly adjacent to the hall.
- Open to all: Visitors and non-members are warmly welcomed for just £5 per person.
Booking Information: Advance booking, for members and non-members is appreciated but not required. Non-members have the option to register and pay online in advance. If you prefer to pay on arrival, please note that we can only accept cash payments at the venue.
- Mon 21 Sep 2026
- 19:30 - 21:30
- Long Furlong Community Centre, Boulter Drive, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1XP
Category
Organiser
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Abingdon Branch - Berkshire FHS
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Email
abingdon@berksfhs.org.uk
Speaker
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Steven GunnSteven Gunn is a Fellow and Tutor in History at Merton College, Oxford and Professor of Early Modern History. He teaches and researches the history of later medieval and early modern Britain and Europe.
He speaks regularly to Historical Association branches and similar groups and has contributed to radio and TV programmes such as In Our Time, Great Lives and Time Team.