Civil wars are violent, transformative, and shocking events which ripple through a nation and its people. In the 1630s the first stirrings of war rang out in Scotland, but quickly spread through Ireland, England and Wales in a series of conflicts which brought death and destruction to a largely peaceful populace. However, during a war which affected everyone in both Britain and Ireland, and which spread across the world, the heaviest fighting and the heaviest load fell upon the ‘disputed’ land in the middle.

Birmingham, a firm centre of support for Parliament, and Coventry, famous as a place which captured Royalists were held, were surrounded by supporters for the King and dozens of garrisons were spread through what is now the West Midlands, whilst Lichfield changed hands on three occasions and Dudley Castle was a firm centre of royal power.

In this lecture, Rik Sowden will focus on events and characters which impacted on the Midlands during a period whose shadow is cast long and whose echoes can be felt today.

Tickets cost £10 per person. Pre-booking is essential, spaces are limited. Tickets are non-refundable.

Please note – we recommend that this talk is not suitable for children under 12. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The talk will take place on the first floor of the museum, which can only be accessed by stairs. Due to the building’s Grade I listed status we are unable to install a lift.