Heritage Open Days – Open Day
An in-person drop-in open day for family historians and local history enthusiasts to explore our research centre and get expert genealogy advice.
British Rail in Berkshire in the 1970s
The 1970s was a decade of extremes, eccentricities, and enduring legacies - and this talk describes the highs, lows, and legendary catering of a remarkable era in Britain’s railway history.
Eldon Road area, Reading, a historical tour
David Cliffe will guide us around the historic area bounded by Eldon Road and Watlington Street. This is a conservation area and famed for some stunning Georgian architecture.
Berkshire Family History Society New Premises Opening
Discover our new Family Research Centre, offering free access to major genealogy databases, expert research assistance, and extensive local archives.
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08 Jun 2026
Opulence and neglect: the changing fortunes of the Vachells of Coley House, 1638-1705
Dr Margaret Ounsley reveals everyday life in one of Reading's 'great houses' in the 17th and early 18th centuries. And also the massive social and economic changes going on during this time and the changing fortunes of the Vachell family.
Houses and Estates Talks Series
This all series ticket covers all three talks in the "Houses and Estates" Talks series, for the discounted price of £12.50 (members £10). Alll talks are on Thursdays at 2.30pm at the Abbey Baptist Church in Reading.
The Silk Industry in Reading
The silk industry existed in Reading for over 200 years, and employed over 500 people in the early 19th century. Yet nowadays few have heard of it. David will describe the different processes involved in silk production, how the industry in Reading was run, some of the firms involved, and whereabouts they operated.
A History of Tilehurst
Discover Tilehurst's place in history, its community and how local events have changed it.
St. Peter’s Church, Caversham, Reading, from the north-east, showing the church, and part of the churchyard with tombstones (courtesy of Reading Local Studies Illustration Collection)
Thomas Willats: High Sheriff and Prisoner
Thomas Willats, from a notable Berkshire family, faced extensive legal disputes and financial difficulties. Despite owning Kidmore End estate, he endured 17 years in debtor’s prison amid multiple Chancery cases, family inheritance conflicts and controversial associations with Ely Stott. His extensive correspondence and legal records reveal both personal and financial struggles.
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12 Feb 2025
Daimonomageia (Wellcome Collection (CC-BY-4.0))
A Witchcraft Accusation in 17th Century Reading
Discover how social friction, religious tension and community scapegoating led to a 1634 witchcraft accusation and trial in Reading.
30 Sep 2019