WTHSoc June 2025 Meeting Details

 Let History's darker side enlighten you!

WTHSoc June 2025 Meeting Details
Date - 27 June 2025
Time - 20:00 (Doors open 19:30)
Location - Weston Turville Village Hall
Title - “Grave Robbers”
Speaker – Steve Bacon
Entrance - £2 members, £3 visitors

 

Step into the shadows of history and uncover the fascinating—and unsettling—world of grave robbing. Join us as Steve Bacon, historian and former primary school teacher, delves into the notorious profession of resurrectionists. Through the compelling character of Nehemiah Bacon, Steve reveals how grave robbing shaped the progress of medicine, navigated the law, and challenged public morality.

Discover the secrets of this lurid trade, including the cunning art of “leave no trace” and the surprising alliances with surgeons and magistrates. Learn about the hefty rewards for grave robbers and the chilling tales of those who took even darker routes, sparking outrage that forever altered the laws.

Though the Anatomy Act of 1832 and public disdain brought grave robbing to an end, Steve explores how the actions of these individuals have contributed to medical advancements we benefit from today.

Steve Bacon has featured as an expert on popular TV shows such as Time Team, Inside the Body of Henry VIII, and Royal Deaths and Diseases. Don’t miss this thrilling and thought-provoking presentation!

 The nearest local example of Grave Robbers we could find was from 1820 at Great Missendon

If you would like to dive further into the topic, Steve recomends a visit to The Hunterian Museum in the Royal College of Surgeons. 

 

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