Welcome to the website of the Galmpton and Churston Ferrers Local History Group
We organise regular illustrated history talks at the Galmpton Village Institute. Why not check our events page to see when the next one is and come along. You can also subscribe to our email newsletter which tells you about upcoming events.
The group was formed in 1996 by a group of enthusiasts eager to record and preserve features and information about our parish. Since then, our email subscriber list has grown to over 160.
An aerial view illustrating the entire coastal boundary of Churston Ferrers parish from Broadsands Beach to Churston Cove. The contrast is clear between the the natural features of coastline beach, Elbury Common & Cove, woodland fringe, and the spread of 20th century development.
Upcoming Events
An illustrated talk by Rosemary Griggs.
Katherine Champernowne, being the mother of Sir Humphrey Gilbert and Sir Walter Raleigh, was no ordinary woman.
This is a talk about her story.
As a girl, she starts a life at Greenway Court, overlooking the River Dart. Her Devon gentry family had close connections to the glittering court of King Henry VIII.
About the talk Presenter – Rosemary Griggs
Rosemary is a retired Civil Servant and popular West Country speaker, delving into Devon’s sixteenth century history for many years.
She wears sixteenth century costume made by herself to bring the past to life in an entertaining re-enactment.
For more information about Rosemary, see her website here: rosemarygriggs.co.uk
Steve Banks and John Risdon will be providing a “Christmas Special” with songs from Steve and dialogue from John.
An illustrated talk by Bill Horner, Devon County Archaeologist & Historic Environment Manager
Aerial survey, including traditional aerial photography and modern laser techniques, have made a substantial contribution to the discovery of new archaeological sites across Devon.
Increasing numbers of these sites are being excavated, as housing, industrial and road development takes place.
Using examples from the south of the county, Bill will show what this is revealing about Devon’s rich heritage, from prehistory to the modern era.
Bill studied Ancient History and Archaeology at Exeter University, joined Devon County Council in 1991 and has been County Archaeologist since 2011.
He manages a small team that maintains the Devon County Historic Environment Record and provides archaeological planning and land management advice to Devon’s rural district councils, and to Torbay Council.
Picture attached (Roman site at Preston Down Road, Paignton)
Sandy and Ian Howard give a wide ranging talk on the history of Greenway.
An illustrated talk by our very own historian John Risdon.
What We Do
The group investigates and records details of our local past, preserves such as the Galmpton Lime Kiln and the Broadsands Neolithic Chambered Tomb, and provides information about the history and wildlife in the Galmpton Creek area.
A comprehensive ‘Guide to Galmpton’ map containing information of local historic interest is available via this link or at the Manor Inn and Galleon Stores.
A programme of talks and guided walks/visits is organised annually and listed on this website.
If you would like to keep up to date with our upcoming talks at the Galmpton Village Institute hall and other activities why not subscribe to our email newsletter here.
Talks at the Village Institute are usually just £3 to attend, payable on the door.
We are a friendly group and are always pleased to meet new potential members, so why not come along to our next talk?