Changed in the 1950s, Norwich was to alter even more during the 1960s. Increased traffic would be met with widened roads and a new flyover, while London Street became pedestrians only. After centuries of trading there the cattle market would move out of the city centre. Bigger buildings changed its skyline and the city gained a university and a new library. The Beatles played here, secret chemical tests were carried out there and plans to modernise were everywhere.
In this talk, the sequel to his hugely popular book and talk about Norwich in the 1950s, Pete Goodrum takes a fascinating look at the ten years in which the baby boomers came into their own. As the fifties faded away and sixties style arrived, this was the decade that altered the face of the city
Pete Goodrum is a writer and broadcaster, and author of several books on local history. He frequently broadcasts on radio, on a range of subjects and gives talks based on his books. Pete will be presenting a sequel in January 2026 on Norwich in the 1970s.
The Norwich Guild Feast was the day at midsummer on which the new mayor of Norwich was installed in office. It was set within an entire week of popular festivities. The day itself culminated in a grand feast in ‘New Hall’ (St Andrews Hall). Hospitality, food and eating together are always full of meaning. So, what can we learn from examining the foodstuffs before they ended up on the plate? Where are the swans and did early-modern pigs really live in a two-class society?
Victor Morgan worked at the UEA for many years after graduating there in 1965 and has been involved in a number of research projects and studies, including undertaking a fellowships in the united States. His research interests have focused on East Anglia and he has published many articles and books. He also has an interest in how history is taught and has been involved in much extra-mural teaching through the region. His most recent research includes the history of civic ritual in Norwich, c.1450-1730, and a biography of the Norfolk gentleman, JP and MP, Sir Nathaniel Bacon of Stiffkey.
