Captain Michael Barritt will pick up the theme of his 2017 E.G.R. Taylor Lecture, showing the evidence that belies the received wisdom that the Royal Navy of the period showed neither interest in nor aptitude for hydrography, and that there was clear encouragement from leaders such as Nelson.
Case studies will illustrate challenges and achievements with the often limited means at the disposal of the practitioners, show how men with higher skills were identified, and consider the background of the different educational regimes in Scotland and England.
The lecture will tap into the rich visual material preserved in archives, especially that of the UK Hydrographic Office.
- Lecture
The life of Captain James Fitzjames - Fabiënne Tetteroo
This talk explores the roles of Captain James Fitzjames and highlights primary sources that reveal a more accurate, underexplored portrait of this remarkable officer.
London and onlineOpen to allMonday 27 April 2026 - Lecture
The years of travelling anxiously
Over the last 20 years, writer and academic Tom Sykes has been lucky enough to travel all over the world. But his trips have often been marred - if not ruined - by anxiety. This talk, based on Tom's latest book, hopes to solve a lifelong conundrum and in so doing help other anxious travellers.
PortsmouthOpen to allTuesday 5 May 2026 - Lecture
Metal mining and the Tyne
Join us to hear from Dr James Fielding, Tyne Rivers Trust, about the fascinating historical and geological context to the once booming metal mining industry in the Tyne catchment, together with an overview of the lasting environmental and ecological impacts of the industry.
Newcastle-upon-TyneOpen to allWednesday 6 May 2026