Author Amy Beeson will talking to readers and historians about her work for her latest book at Staffordshire History Day on Saturday 28 April 2018 at Entrust HQ, Riverway Centre at 12.30pm on Archives and the Novelist.The event is organised by Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent Archive Service, Keele University and the Centre for West Midlands History at the University of Birmingham to share their latest research with students, historical societies, historians and readers.

Uncovering new stories

Author Amy Beeson at William Salt Library on Eastgate Street, Stafford Records Office

“I’m still in the early stages of writing my first solo novel but the Stafford Records Office have been invaluable,” said Amy who attended Blessed William High School and grew up in the village of Great Haywood and now lives in London.

“The archivists at the Stafford Records Office helped me find records, microfilm, maps and photos – it feels like playing detective in a spy film sometimes. You never know what you’ll uncover,’ teased Amy.

“I spent hours pouring through newspapers at the William Salt Library. I’m fascinated by the photos, stories and advertisements of the time. My favourite is definitely the classified ads.”

Getting hands on with collections

Amy Beeson looking at County Museum Collection at Shugborough

“I spent a thrilling morning with Melanie Williamson at the County Museum in Shugborough. Seeing a wedding dress worn by a bride at Colwich Parish Church was a very special moment.”

Amy has made special visits to The National Archives, Imperial War Museums and The National Trust Collection at Shugborough as part of her research.

Finding the truth

‘Our Country Nurse’ is Amy Beeson’s third book co-written with Sarah Beeson MBE

Amy is the Co-Author of three books with her mum, former Staffordshire health visitor Sarah Beeson MBE which included two memoirs ‘Our Country Nurse’ and ‘The New Arrival.

“Reviews often say how authentic the books feel. Research forms helps to create the truth of the characters lives, both their inner world and the world around them,” said Amy.

Signed copies of Amy and Sarah Beeson’s books will be available for readers to buy at the event.

How to book

Staffordshire History Day: New Developments in Staffordshire History

A collaboration between Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent Archive Service, Keele University and the Centre for West Midlands History at the University of Birmingham. See full programme and booking form.

Venue: Entrust HQ, Riverway Centre, Riverway, Stafford ST16 3TH

Date: Saturday 28 April 2018

Time: 10.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.

Admission: Tickets £25 per person, including lunch and refreshments. Must be booked in advance through Staffordshire Record Office to avoid disappointment. If making payment online subsequently, please quote code SHD18.

Parking: Free onsite parking.

Email: staffordshire.record.office@staffordshire.gov.uk