Le Village Belge sur la Tamise: Belgian Refugees in Twickenham in World War I

Next talk of Hounslow and District History Society

Belgian Refugees in Twickenham in World War One is the subject of Hounslow and District History Society’s first lecture in 2016 at the United Reformed Church Hall, Chapel Road, Hounslow on Tuesday 26th January 2016 at 7.45pm. The speaker is Dr. Helen Baker, a local historian in Twickenham.

Dr. Baker will describe how, in 1914, nearly half a million Belgians fled from the horrors of war to the United Kingdom. The Belgian-owned Pelabon Munitions’ Factory in Twickenham attracted so many Belgians that it became known as “The Belgian Village on the Thames.” Dr. Baker will explain how the community linked with Belgians in nearby areas such as Chiswick and Hounslow.

This subject will prove most interesting. Some local people may even claim Belgian ancestry. Everyone is welcome at £2.00 each for non-members.

January 25, 2016