On March 26th, there will be a zoom talk based on initial research into York's experience of the 1918 Flu Pandemic and the Rowntree family's involvement in public health during this period. 

In this talk, Catherine Oakley (Executive Director of the Rowntree Society) will share questions and findings from her early research into York’s experience of the Spanish flu.

Her particular focus is the history of the Rowntree family and company in York. Joseph Rowntree and his sons Benjamin Seebohm and Arnold made significant contributions to public health in the city during their lifetimes in local and national politics.

How did they respond to the pandemic? What impact did the virus have on Rowntree workers in York and abroad? How was the outbreak experienced among residents in the city, and in vulnerable communities such as those identified in Benjamin Seebohm Rowntree’s pioneering study of poverty in 1901?

If you have already joined Clements Hall Local History Group and paid for the 2021 talks, you will be sent an invitation link for this talk soon.

If you are a member who has not paid for talks already, the cost is £1 to book a ticket.

Non-members can attend the talk for £3, or sign up for a year's membership (£5 - £10). All funds go towards sustaining the group's work during the pandemic.

For full details, click here.