Cheltenham Local History Society was again well-represented at this year's Gloucestershire Local History Association (GLHA) local history day, held at Hartpury University on 27 July. Twenty two Gloucestershire societies produced displays on the theme of Life Stories, with ours being the life and work of Alfred Miles (1853-1932), the Cheltenham coachbuilder, renowned Borough and County Councillor, Christian preacher and local historian, whose plaque we unveiled at his home in St Anne's Terrace in April 2022. 

 

The event, ably coordinated by our own Sally Self, the new Chairperson of GLHA, and a team of volunteers, was attended by 92 people. It included two very informative and well-illustrated talks about people with strong Gloucestershire connections. Maureen Anderson spoke on Major General Fabian Ware (1869-1949), an educator, journalist and founder of the Imperial War Graves Commission, and Dr Steven Blake on George Rowe (1796-1864), the artist and lithographer and, later, gold prospector in Australia.  

 

The whole day was greatly enjoyed by all who attended, as an opportunity both to network with other local historians and to learn more about the lives of many extraordinary Gloucestershire people. We particularly appreciated the excellent facilities and friendly support from the University staff.