… that was the question at our April General Meeting. However, before coming to this interesting talk some business needed to be taken care of.

Our Secretary, Julia thanked all those who had sent their registration forms for the May conference – and their cheques.  There was still time before the cut-off date for enrolment.  She reminded people to contribute to the bring and buy stall, that costume was optional, and asked them to be sure to arrive on time so as not to delay the programme.

Treasurer Dorothea reported that our finances were in good shape and looking healthier than usual because of the registrations for the May conference.

As Webmaster, she reported that excellent reactions from overseas were coming in, and references to our website were being included in other ones around the world.  The Ricardian Calendar was going well, with additions for each month, and a new item for all members to contribute to was a feature on Ricardian Places such as Fotheringay, Middleham, Tewkesbury etc.  These needed to be fairly short, with reference as to where to find further information.  Photographs would be welcome, particularly personal ones as there would then be no problem with copyright.

As Librarian, Dorothea reported that several books had been borrowed and returned.

Social Secretay Kevin explained that there had been a hiccup with the booking for the lunch to remember the death of Queen Anne, but in the end everything had turned out well.

During the meeting there was also a draw for the Scrabble speakers at the August meeting.  For those who have not heard one of these talks, members draw a scrabble tile, and prepared a short talk – 10 minutes or so – on a Ricardian or medieval history subject beginning with the drawn letter.  The speakers in August will be:  Jane on ‘T’;  Xavier on’ H’;  Leslie on ‘U’; Dorothea on ‘E’ and Lynne on ‘O’.  It will be interesting to see what they make out of it.

Kevin was also  our speaker for the afternoon.  His subject “What’s in a Name?” was a survey of historical people who bore the names Richard and Duke of Gloucester.  This talk had been given at the Perth conference in a shorter form.  As expected it was researched in detail as the tragic lives of these people with the name Richard and/or title of Duke of Gloucester were revealed.  Only two or three died peacefully and led reasonably happy lives.  Kevin pointed out that the current Richard Duke of Gloucester, is the exception to the rule, with his relatively normal life as a royal, and his valued interest and involvement as Patron of the Richard III Society.  Afterwards Lynne proposed a vote of thanks to Kevin, praising his knowledge of historical family trees.  There was much applause from all present.

The raffle was drawn and then members and friends enjoyed afternoon tea.

Tags: NSW Branch