Talk: The History of Veterinary Medicine in Newmarket.

Newmarket isn’t just the home of horseracing — it’s also where veterinary science galloped forward.

Discover the remarkable story of how Newmarket, the world-renowned home of horseracing, also became a key centre for the advancement of veterinary medicine. This engaging talk will explore the town’s unique role in shaping equine care — from early farriers and stable medicine to pioneering veterinary practices that influenced the wider profession. Whether you’re passionate about horses, history, or healthcare, this is a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known but vital part of Newmarket’s heritage.

Few words about our speaker: Richard Greenwood joined the equine practice of Day, Crowhust and partners in 1970 and practiced in Newmarket until retirement in 2006. The practice has now become the Newmarket Equine Hospital.

Join us for a fascinating evening exploring how veterinary medicine evolved in Newmarket, from caring for elite racehorses to influencing modern practice.

Doors open 7.00pm
The history talk starts at 7.30pm
Guests: £3.00pp
Members: Free (Annual membership £12.00pp)
Address: Catholic Church Hall, 14 Exeter Rd, Newmarket CB8 8LT
Parking: The church offers free parking on its premises
Accessibility: The level floor provides easy access for all
Refreshments available

We invite you to join the Facebook group Medical History Newmarket

Photo credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMwrb1hpen4

Discover the Story Behind Dad’s Army – A Special History Talk!

The Newmarket Local History Society invites you to a captivating talk exploring the history behind Dad’s Army—both the legendary TV series and the real Home Guard that inspired it.

Tuesday 18th February 2025
Doors open 7.00pm
The history talk starts at 7.30pm
Guests: £3.00pp
Members: Free (Annual membership £12.00pp)
Address: Catholic Church Hall, 14 Exeter Rd, Newmarket CB8 8LT
Parking: The church offers free parking on its premises
Accessibility: The level floor provides easy access for all
Refreshments available

Join us as an expert speaker from the Dad’s Army Museum takes us back in time to wartime Britain, sharing the real-life stories of the Home Guard and how Dad’s Army became one of the most beloved comedies in British history.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a fan of the classic series, this is an event not to be missed!

For more information about the museum or to book your visit, please visit the website https://dadsarmythetford.org.uk/

“The History of the Oregon Trail” by popular speaker Kevin Boardman

This is one of Kevin Boardman’s favourite talks. It comes directly from his own research and experiences.  There are no specific examples given but people from all across Britain and Europe made their way to the “New World” to start a new life. Some of them were certainly from East Anglia. They could not have imagined how vast the “New World” was, nor all the unexpected obstacles and dangers that they might encounter. The prizes at the end were a new life, freedom and the possibility of your own farm land.

Talk Content:

• The opening up of America as a nation.
• The 2000+ mile journey from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon City, Oregon, in the mid-1800s.
• How it started and how so many travelled across a continent in the search for a new life.

Tuesday 18th February 2025
Doors open 7.00pm
The history talk starts at 7.30pm
Guests: £3.00pp
Members: Free (Annual membership £12.00pp)
Address:  Catholic Church Hall, 14 Exeter Rd, Newmarket CB8 8LT
Parking: The church offers free parking on its premises
Accessibility: The level floor provides easy access for all
Refreshments available

We had a fantastic turnout for our January history talk! The evening featured unique insights into the railway’s legacy, the Railway 200 project, and its profound impact on our community.

A special highlight was the contribution from the Great Eastern Railway Society, who shared fascinating stories of Newmarket railwaymen.

It was inspiring to see the engagement from attendees and the lively discussions that followed. Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our wonderful speaker Mike Lamport for making the evening so memorable!

Stay tuned for more history talks—we can’t wait to explore more stories with our members and guests.

2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway. Born in Britain, gifted to the globe. On 27 September 1825, George Stephenson’s steam-powered Locomotion No. 1 travelled 26 miles between Shildon, Darlington and Stockton, carrying hundreds of passengers to great fanfare. It set in motion a train of events that changed the world forever.

Did you know that Newmarket once had three railway stations? The development of the railway profoundly influenced the town, shaping its growth and connectivity starting in 1836. From facilitating the transport of goods and people to enhancing its reputation as a hub for horseracing, the railway played a pivotal role in Newmarket’s history.

We are thrilled to welcome Mike Lamport, a distinguished railwayman from the Lamport family, recognised as the longest-standing cross-generational railway family, whose roots in the rail industry trace back to 1846. Mike will be sharing his insights on the rich history of the railway and the Railway 200 project. His deep connection to the railways offers a unique and invaluable perspective on this remarkable legacy.

All aboard! Dive into the captivating history of the railway and explore its lasting influence in this engaging talk by Mike Lamport.

Date: 21st January 2025
Time: 7:30pm
Location: Newmarket Town Council, Memorial Hall, High Street. CB8 8JP
Ticket price £3pp and £5 for two people – members free
Tickets available at the door.

Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of the railway!

The talk is organised by Newmarket Local History Society and supported by Newmarket Town Council. 

Dear Members and Friends,

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank you for your support and enthusiasm for preserving and celebrating our town’s rich history.

This year has been one of progress and connection, and it is thanks to your contributions and dedication that our shared passion for local heritage continues to thrive.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year filled with peace, happiness, and historical discoveries!

We look forward to welcoming you to more exciting events and initiatives in the coming year.

Warmest regards,

Newmarket Local History Society Committee

We are delighted to announce that the Newmarket Local History Society has relocated to a new venue!

Starting from December 2024, we will be meeting from our new location at ”Our Lady Immaculate & St Etheldreda Newmarket” – 14 Exeter Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8LT

This move marks an exciting chapter for our society, offering improved facilities, free parking and a more accessible space for members and visitors alike.

To make our gathering even more enjoyable, free refreshments will now be available during our meetings.

We look forward to welcoming you to our new home, where we will continue to celebrate and preserve our rich local history.

Stay tuned for further details about our upcoming meetings!

Support Local History: Shop Our Book Sale

Discover rare finds, vintage treasures, and fascinating local history books.
Every book you purchase helps fund our society’s efforts to preserve and share the rich history of our community. Spread the word and bring your friends! Together, let’s celebrate our love for books and our community’s heritage.

Grab 2 Books for Just £5! (Regularly £3 each)

£3 each

£2 each 

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On Remembrance Sunday, we remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Their bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten.

May we honor their legacy by upholding the values they fought to protect.

Newmarket Local History Society

Talk title ”Recollections of A Newmarket Head Gardener”

Step into the world of horticultural mastery and historical charm with “Recollections of a Newmarket Head Gardener,” an engaging talk that unearths the life and work of one of Newmarket’s most respected head gardener.  Join us as Mr. Chris Easom, a member of the society, recounts the fascinating stories and personal reflections of a head gardener who oversaw some of the most beautiful and iconic gardens in Newmarket.

This is an unusual, surprising, and demanding type of horticulture that has to fulfill very different demands to the usual ones found with “gardening” and horticulture.  For illustration, Chris contrasts his experience at Newmarket with other horticultural jobs he has had.

Tuesday  19th November 2024
Doors open 7.00pm
The history talk starts at 7.30pm

Guests: £3.00pp
Members: Free (Annual membership £12.00pp)

Address: The Stable, 65 High Street Newmarket CB8 8NA
The venue is accessible via lift and/or stairs