History of Dunwich Heath

The Turbulent History of Dunwich Heath 
— 
Three years of research by National Trust volunteer, Richard Symes, uncovered tales of 18th century illegal brandy and tobacco smuggling, revealed the lives of the coastguard families who lived in the cottages during the 19th century and found how First World War trawlermen cleared mines to keep a vital supply route open.  Years later the heath would become a militarised zone and one of the most heavily defended parts of Suffolk during the Second World War.  The Heath was certainly not always the quiet and peaceful place it is today.  [Since 1968, of course, Dunwich Heath & Beach has been a much-loved local asset, cared for by the National Trust.]

Richard visits us at Leiston Community Centre on Monday afternoon, 19th September at 2:30pm, to tell us about his exciting project, which has some intriguing links to family history and Leiston as well.  In the meantime, read more here and, for directions, see the box top right.  

  No booking — just turn up!  |  adequate free parking  |  members: £1.00  |  visitors: £3.00  |  tea & bickies

You cannot watch this talk over Zoom, but we hope to start "hybrid" meetings in October!