The City of Wolverhampton Council's Senior Archivist Heidi McIntosh wants to hear from amateur historians, either individuals or groups, who are willing to share their research at the city's 11th Local History Symposium, which takes place in February 2018.
The annual event showcases new and often very significant research into the history of Wolverhampton through a series of short presentations.
Guidance for submissions and an application form are available by emailing heidi.mcintosh@wolverhampton.gov.uk. The closing date for submissions is Friday 5 January, 2018, and successful individuals will be informed by the end of the following week.
As well as the chance to share their findings with local history enthusiasts, speakers will also be in the running for a Local History Bursary of £400, sponsored by the Express & Star and Wolverhampton Civic and Historical Society, to encourage and support further research into the city's varied past.
The winner will need to demonstrate a focus to their research, indicate clearly the significance of the information presented, communicate their information clearly and simply and demonstrate that they have brought about a growth in understanding on the subject (rather than simply presenting information which is already widely known).
Councillor John Reynolds, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: "Wolverhampton has some incredible stories to tell and over the last decade this symposium has become an important event on the local history calendar.
"Previous symposiums have provided fascinating studies into a wide range of subjects, from the development of the local iron industry, spectacle making in 19th century and the use of child labour trough to Wolverhampton's waterways, the war graves at Merridale Cemetery and even a history of fast food in Wolverhampton.
"We're really keen to hear from individuals or groups who want to speak at next year's event. Not only will they be able to share their findings with others who are passionate about our local history but everyone who takes part will also be in the running for a chance to win the £400 Local History Bursary."
The 11th Local History Symposium takes place at Wolverhampton City Archives' Molineux Hotel Building on Saturday 17 February, 2018, from 10am to 4pm. Tickets will be available shortly.
- released: Monday 20 November, 2017