AGRA conference speaker line-up announced

This third AGRA Conference, due to take place on 8 and 9 September 2023, will explore the theme of navigating your family history with topics from migration, through naval and military records to finding your way round local and national archives and the records they hold. 

The event launches with an after-dinner speech by historian, author and broadcaster, Dr Sam Willis, a Fellow in Maritime and Naval History. Dr Willis has made numerous TV series for the BBC and National Geographic, published more than fifteen books as well as presenting The Mariner’s Mirror Podcast and co-presenting the podcast Histories of the Unexpected.

The following day, keynote speaker, Dr Helen Doe, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and Vice Chairman and Trustee of the British Commission for Maritime History, offers her insight into maritime history in the 19th century. 

Next, discover how author and publisher Richard Atkinson turned amateur genealogist and uncovered a remarkable ancestor who was a purveyor of provisions to the British army, and family who were merchants and planters in Jamaica, involved in the slave trade, as he discusses his book Mr Atkinson’s Rum Contract. 

Additionally, attendees can find out about researching British prisoners of Napoleon in French archives from Anne Morddel, who will examine the range of resources available for this in British and French archives including the published memoirs of individual prisoners of war. 

Conference details

The conference takes place on 8 and 9 September at Downing College, Cambridge, and will also be live streamed for those unable to attend in person (further details announced soon).

Prices range from £45-£320, including a package deal which includes a day ticket to the conference, drinks reception, dinner, one night’s accommodation and breakfast. Early bird discounts are available if booked before 30 April. For all ticket pricing and booking visit EventBrite.