To a packed hall in Shoscombe, Dennis gave his fascinating talk on the history of Writhlington Manor and the George Washington connection, organised by the Shoscombe Local History Group.

For the first time since 1985, valuable objects from Writhlington Church were on public display at the talk, thanks to St Nicholas Church Warden, Esther Parker.

As this silverware has significant historical interest, it is stored in a bank vault, so it was a rare privilege for the audience to see it. Items included a chalice, goblet and a number of other historical artefacts; originally held at Lower Writhlington Church, these items were transferred to St Nicholas Church, Radstock when Writhlington Church was deconsecrated in the 1970s. It was an informative talk about the history of one of our local manors (now demolished) and the lifelong friendship of owners Hon. George Fairfax, his wife Sarah and the famous George Washington, who went on to be the USA’s first president.

Shoscombe Local History Group is a thriving community-based organisation that hosts a number of talks, walks and visits each year. The main theme is local history, with forthcoming events to include an evening’s workshop on local field names, a walk and subsequent evening talk on the Camerton to Paulton stretch of the Somersetshire Coal Canal, and an update on the Roman Bath’s Archway Project. For more information on the History Group and its activities, visit: www.everythingshoscombe.org

Derek Withers