Our history is no mystery!

[Members of the Odd Down History Group]

I have to pass on my congratulations to the Odd Down History Group, founded by Julianne Mackrell and celebrating its second anniversary in November this year.

She told me they meet “on the third Thursday of every month at 2 pm at the Odd Down cafe at the sports ground in Chelwood Drive, and over those years, I have been able to arrange numerous talks which have always been well received (usually held at the football club, which was established in 1901).

I am keen to keep everything free so that everyone can attend regardless of status. I work as a volunteer and have been very lucky with people who have been happy to also talk for free, because they are passionate about history.”

I emailed her back to ask how much Odd Down had to offer in terms of history, and she was quick to come back to me.

“Odd Down, the area to the south of Bath, has a rich and mainly undiscovered history. There are many quarries, although often you only hear about Ralph Allen’s at Combe Down. William Smith, the strata geologist, lived here as did Dr Clara Cross, an amazing pathologist who went on to work at the former workhouse (now St Martin’s and housing) during the war, aiding the wounded and, of course, the Wansdyke, which is a mystery, and should be as important as Hadrian’s Wall!

The former workhouse and the cemetery can be read about on the display board located at the site of the cemetery, close to the Red Lion pub. 

There is the interesting workhouse chapel and a memorial to Eddie Cochrane, who was killed near Corsham.

Our friendly group meets on the third Thursday of the month at Odd Down Sports Ground cafe at Chelwood Drive at 2 pm. Do pop along and say hello. There’s plenty of parking and a level walk. Also, a bus stop is right outside on Bloomfield Road.”

Thank you for that, Julianne. Hope giving your group a mention might bring along some new members and people who would like to come along as guest speakers.