Birmingham Civic Society

Leaders Breakfast 2018
2018-11-23 07:15 - 09:15 UTC
Book your place at our Annual Leaders’ Breakfast on Friday 23 November, 7.15 – 9.15am at Hotel du Vin, with guest speaker the Leader of Birmingham City Council, Councillor Ian Ward.
This event is for Civic Society corporate members and their guests. It includes coffee during the networking reception and a full English breakfast.
Book your place via Eventbrite.

The Suffragette Movement in Birmingham a talk by Nicola Gauld
2018-11-17 10:00 - 11:30
Women’s historian Nicola Gauld provides a fascinating account of the suffragette movement in Birmingham from key individuals to historic events.
After the talk, take the opportunity to join an accompanied visit to Women and Protest exhibition at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

Blue Plaque to Bertha Ryland to be unveiled
2018-11-16 12:00 - 13:30
The Trustees of the Birmingham Civic Society and Birmingham Museums warmly invite you to the unveiling of a Commemorative Blue Plaque to Bertha Ryland on Friday 16 November, at 12.00pm.
In the centenary year of the Representation of the People Act, we are proud to unveil a new plaque to suffragette Bertha Ryland in Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. On 9 June 1914 Bertha Ryland entered the museum and attacked a painting as part of the militant campaign for women’s rights. The attack took place as protests escalated across the UK with suffragettes fighting to have their voices heard. This event does not condone Bertha’s actions but honours her principles and the fight for women’s rights. This event will give a greater insight into Birmingham’s role in the suffrage movement. Taking place in the Round Room the plaque will be revealed as part of a ceremony that features a short presentation by researcher and author Dr Nicola Gauld and dramatic performance by actress Francesca Millican-Slater. An optional tour of a new exhibition “Women, Power, Protest” will follow with curator Emalee Beddoes-Davis.
The Blue Plaque unveiling forms part of a weekend of thought-provoking events and performances from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 November – including a women in parliament discussion with local female MPs – and is part of the programme for Women Power Protest, an Arts Council Collection National Partnership exhibition. In the anniversary year for women’s suffrage the weekend of events reflects on the progress made for women’s rights and asks just how much has changed for women today?
When: Friday 16th November 2018, 12.00pm-1.30pm
Where: The Round Room, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH
RSVP: by Wednesday 14th November 2018 to Penny Colbourne

AGM & Centenary Celebration
2018-11-15 17:00 - 20:00
Join us on Thursday 15 November, 5 for 5.15pm for our 2018 AGM, held at the offices of Pinsent Masons at 55 Colmore Row. For this part of the evening please RSVP to Kay by 14th November
From 6pm, after the AGM we invite you to join Trustees, members and guests as we look back at the highlights from our Centenary year, sharing highlights of this important anniversary and also look forward to 2019 with our new Chair, Amelia Ladbrook. If you would like to join us please RSVP here.

William Haywood and the Birmingham Civic Society a talk by Stephen Hartland
2018-11-07 18:00 - 19:30
Birmingham Civic Society Trustee Stephen Hartland introduces us to the Society’s first Honorary Secretary and illustrates a man dedicated to making Birmingham a better place for everyone.
The talk takes place in the brewery to the rear of the pub.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

Signpost Event: Funding public services: postcode lotteries or local responsibilities?
2018-11-07 16:20 - 18:45
Where should decisions on our taxes and public services be taken? Should services be funded on a comparable basis nationally from national taxes? Or should councils and other local public sector organisations have responsibility for funding services in their area, and discretion over what to spend and how to raise their revenues? Is more local responsibility a good thing that will empower communities to improve and tailor services? Or does it simply risk worsening ‘postcode lotteries’ in access to services and the taxes we pay? Would it address concerns, implicated in the Brexit vote, that decisions are made by a distant and out-of-touch elite? Or would it widen inequalities, breeding further political divisions?
These questions and more will be discussed at a presentation and debate hosted by the Institute for Fiscal Studies and Birmingham University.
To find out more about this event and sign up follow this link.

Women of the Early Birmingham Civic Society
2018-11-05 13:00 - 14:00
Birmingham Civic Society Heritage Committee member Sian Roberts reveals the history of women from the formation of the Society including politician Mary Cottrell.
Tickets will soon be available on the Birmingham Midland Institute website. Tickets are free for BMI members and £5 for non members.

Written Word - Centenary Event
2018-10-29 10:00 - 12:00
A family friendly exploration of words and writing around Birmingham Cathedral.
This is a free family drop in event, find out more on the Birmingham Cathedral website.

Unveiling of a special centenary Blue Plaque to New Frankley in Birmingham Parish Council
2018-10-26 09:20 - 11:30
Working with the staff and pupils of Balaam Wood School, as part of our centenary heritage programme, to create a film about their area and to nominate who they felt should receive a special centenary Blue Plaque, has led to a resident-led community action project bringing together local schools and groups to design new artwork to cover up the graffiti and damage on local shops and renew pride in the area.
On Friday 26 October, 10.20 – 12.30pm, this new artwork will be unveiled and New Frankley Parish Council will be receiving a Birmingham Civic Society Blue Plaque for their services to the community and environment since 2000. Young people from Balaam Wood Secondary School worked with Suzanne Carter and Scott Johnston to create a behind the scenes documentary about the community mural project and have created a fantastic film to inspire their peers to get more involved in community matters.
The event will be held at Frankley Library on Friday 26th October at 10.30am and will be followed by the unveiling of the community-designed murals at the nearby local shopping parade.
RSVP: by Thursday 25 October 2018 to Penny

Roots Rights and Resistance a walking tour with Rachel West
2018-10-21 13:00 - 14:30
Join Rachel West from Legacy West Midlands for a lively tour of Handsworth and find out more about the people, movement and struggles that shaped this area and wider Birmingham. Discover some fascinating stories of this ever evolving, dynamic part of the city.
Meet at the gates of Soho House on Soho Avenue and bring a brolly, and suitable clothing depending on the weather.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

Private Audience with Martyn Pugh and The Guardian Timepiece - POSTPONED
2018-10-17 17:00 - 19:00
DUE TO UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED, PLEASE KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR A NEW DATE
Join us for an exclusive evening with Martyn Pugh at The Assay Office.
Five years’ of determined research and collaboration between skilled craftsmen and leading academic scientists have culminated in the spectacular “Guardian Timepiece” which now hangs in the impressive foyer of the new Assay Office Building. This project has drawn on the ingenuity, experience and skill of many businesses and individuals, driven by Martyn Pugh, Goldsmith and Silversmith.
Martyn is an active supporter of the industry and has fulfilled several influential roles. He is currently a Warden of the Birmingham Assay Office and a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths.
We will hear from Martyn and have the opportunity to see the fantastic facilities of The Assay Office, a true Birmingham gem.
The evening will begin at 6pm with an opportunity to network with drinks and nibbles and finish at 8pm.
Tickets for Birmingham Civic Society Members are £5 and £10 for non-members.
Book your place via Eventbrite.

The Civic Gospel and Citizenship
2018-10-13 09:00 - 10:30
Curator Henrietta Lockhart recounts the history of the Civic Gospel, a significant movement in Victorian Birmingham and its influence on local government and citizenship. The talk is followed by a short presentation from winners of the Society’s Next Generation Awards illustrating the Society’s role in citizenship today.
Pre booking is essential via the Winterbourne House and Gardens website.

The City Beautiful Printmaking Workshop
2018-09-30 13:00 - 15:00 | Birmingham Trees for Life: Tree Planting Events
A unique opportunity for families to work with Karoline Rerrie, Friend of the RBSA, with the City Beautiful as your theme.
To coincide with our ‘The City Beautiful’ programme, design a poster inspired by well- known buildings & places in Birmingham. Draw your design onto silk screens & print your own colourful posters!
This workshop is suitable for children aged 6 to 12. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Please book in advance to enable the Gallery to confirm numbers and prepare resources.
This event is £7 per child and you can find out more information and book on the RBSA website.

Birmingham's First World War Archive
2018-09-29 11:30 - 13:30
A rare opportunity to view selected archive material relating to Birmingham during The First World War, presented by Sian Roberts.
This event will take place in the Wolfson Room and all bags will need to be placed in lockers located outside of the room.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

Birmingham and The First World War a talk by Sian Roberts
2018-09-29 09:00 - 10:30
Birmingham Civic Society’s Heritage Committee member Sian Roberts illustrates the considerable story of Birmingham during The First World War.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

Birmingham Artists in the 20th Century
2018-09-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Explore Secret Birmingham
Join Hon Professor of Art History Brendan Flynn in an engaging and colourful talk describing the prominent Birmingham artists of the 20th century.
You will soon be able to book this event via the RBSA website.

Signpost Event: Festival of Audacity
2018-09-27 07:00 - 2018-09-29 16:30
A multidisciplinary festival of activist art making all of Birmingham its stage. Taking art out of its comfort zone. Come and witness activist artists making a difference where you least expect them.
Free Radical believe that for art to have a real impact it needs to be bold, so Festival of Audacity is a home for young artists who make brave choices about what they choose to say, how they say it, where they say it, and who they address. Festival of Audacity makes space for young creators to take risks and reach people beyond traditional arts venues. With performances in New Street Station, COW Vintage Stop and on the West Midlands Metro Tram, this festival will be difficult to miss. Find out more and book your tickets here.

A Walking Tour around Cannon Hill Park with Irene de Boo
2018-09-23 13:00 - 14:30
Put your best foot forward and discover the park from the perspective of curator, historian and Cannon Hill Park regular Irene de Boo.
Meet at mac reception area at 2pm.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

City Centre Walking Tour with Blue Badge Guide Ian Jelf
2018-09-22 09:00 - 10:30
A lively, informative and enjoyable walking tour of Birmingham City Centre with Blue Badge Guide, Ian Jelf. Starting at the front of St Martins-in-the-Bullring, the tour will visit key landmarks and places of interest in the city. Ian will highlight important contributions of Birmingham Civic Society, and some of the individuals who have contributed to make Birmingham a better place. A number of Birmingham Civic Society Blue Plaques feature in the tour and it will end at The Library of Birmingham.
Sensible shoes, a warm coat, brolly and/or sunglasses recommended.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

Edward Burne-Jones Walking Tour
2018-09-16 13:00 - 14:30
Join a lively and informative walking tour looking at the life and works of Birmingham born artist Edward Burne-Jones.
Led by Birmingham Cathedral’s Heritage Manager, Jane McArdle, the tour starts amongst his finest works in stained-glass in the world and ends at Birmingham Museum.
Book your ticket via the Birmingham Cathedral website.

Imaginative Gardens
2018-09-15 12:00 - 14:00
A free, drop-in craft activity for children of all ages as part of Birmingham Heritage Week.

Enjoy the parts of Aston Park designed by Birmingham Civic Society in the 1930s and then see if you can make your own Imaginative Garden.

Aston Park and Birmingham Civic Society: A Walk with Ranger Jim Harrison
2018-09-15 11:00 - 13:00 | apt-hand-like-circle
Meet at Aston Hall Stables Range for this free of charge event

A History of Birmingham Parks a Talk by Darren Share
2018-09-15 09:00 - 10:30
Darren Share, Assistant Director, Birmingham City Council describes the history of Birmingham’s much loved parks and Birmingham Civic Society’s role in greening the city. A ranger guided walk is available to join after the talk.
Book your ticket via Eventbrite.

An Autumn Woodland History Revealed at Sutton Park
2018-09-08 09:00 - 10:30
Take a wander through Holly Hurst looking at the many features that reveal the previous management of the wood in this archaeologically rich area of the park.
This is a free ranger walk, meet at Sutton Park Visitor Centre, Park Road, Sutton Coldfield B74 2YT

Casting Creations at Coffin Works
2018-08-16 12:00 - 14:00
Celebrate Birmingham Civic Society’s Blue Plaque scheme by creating your very own name plate out of a magical combination of sand, plaster and paint.
This is a drop in family activity for accompanied children of all ages – no need to book!

Library Laughs - Centenary Event
2018-08-07 12:00 - 15:00
Bring along your best jokes or write them with us on the day – then try out a bit of stand up!
Guaranteed laughs inspired by world famous 20th century Brummie comedian Sid Field and The Summer Reading Challenge Mischief Makers.
Suitable for accompanied children between 5-12 years.
This is a free event and you can sign up here.

City Centre Walking Tour with Blue Badge Guide Ian Jelf
2018-07-28 09:00 - 10:30
An informative and enjoyable walking tour of Birmingham City Centre with Blue Badge Guide, Ian Jelf. Starting at the front of St Martins-in-the-Bullring, the tour will visit key landmarks and places of interest in the city. Ian will highlight important aspects of Birmingham Civic Society, and some of the individuals who have contributed to making Birmingham a better place. A number of Birmingham Civic Society Blue Plaques feature in the tour and it will end at The Library of Birmingham.
Meet at St Martin in the Bull Ring at 10am. Book tickets here.

Centenary Event: Birmingham Civic Arms
2018-07-09 12:00 - 14:00
Armorist Adrian de Redman takes a look at the history and both legal and illegal uses of The Birmingham Civic Arms.
This event is £5 or free to BMI members, and you can book on the BMI website.

Divine Beauty Concert
2018-07-07 16:00 - 18:00
The talented choristers of Birmingham Cathedral perform a musical treat as part of Birmingham Civic Society’s centenary – The City Beautiful – celebrating the remarkable Burne-Jones stained-glass windows.
A programme of great cathedral anthems inspired by each of the four windows, including Parry’s I Was Glad, Mendelssohn’s Hear My Prayer and O For the Wings of a Dove, Ireland’s Greater Love, music by Finzi and Wesley and several pieces written for Birmingham Cathedral Choir.
This concert supports Divine Beauty and fundraising efforts to conserve the stained-glass windows.
Book your ticket via the Birmingham Cathedral website.

Water Way to Go
2018-07-07 10:00 - 11:30
A look at the past and future of the pools and surrounds of Brookvale Park and Witton Lakes.
This is a free family drop in event.
