Gypsy Travellers in Dorset talk at Shire Hall Museum on Wed 20 April 2022 12-2pm

12th April 2022

Gypsy Travellers in Dorset - Wednesday 20 April 2022 at Shire Hall

Meet Ray Wills, the Gypsy Poet

Time: 12 noon – 2.00pm
Where: At Shire Hall Museum, High West St, Dorchester DT1 1UY

Ray will be sharing his local research with us on Gypsy Travellers in Dorset, followed by a poetry reading.

Meet Betty Smith-Billington, Chair of Kushti Bok

Betty will be speaking about the work of Kushti Bok and her family life in Dorset.

There will also be the opportunity to see the exhibition.

Unearthed

With a map displaying some of the original Gypsy Traveller encampments in Poole; earth samples; a photographic display and Fancy and Roger’s family tree dating back to 17th Century.

This exhibition will be accompanied by a selection of Ray’s published books; information about Kushti Bok - Dorset’s leading Gypsy & Traveller organisation; and children’s learning resources from DEED - Dorset’s global education centre.

We will also be joined by Anne Brown, Learning Manager at Shire Hall and Maria Gayton, Community Development Manager at Dorset History Centre who will share some of the local research they have been involved with.

We will also be showing some short films exploring life for Gypsies and Travellers today.

Come join us to learn more about how Gypsy Traveller communities have lived and worked in our local community for hundreds of years.

All are welcome!

A light ploughman’s lunch will be provided.

Places are limited so you will need to book.