The Arts in a Time of Turmoil: Mid 19th Century Victorian Literature

On Thursday June 18th at 7:30PM, come to Ross Bay Villa Historic House Museum for a dive into literature of the Victorian era. Listen to a lecture by heritage advocate and historical researcher, Nick Russell, as he explores the invention of steam power, the impact of railways, canals and factories, the horror of cholera and London’s “Big Stink,” the furor over slavery, child labour, the origin of species and more. These topics inspired and influenced Victorian literature, which was changing dramatically as the Establishment, the Church and authority were challenged. What were Victoria’s residents reading in this mid-19th-Century time of turmoil? After all, the first owner of Ross Bay Villa, Francis Roscoe, was described in his obituary as “exceedingly fond of literature”. 

Tickets are $10 and must be booked in advance. All proceeds support Ross Bay Villa, a volunteer-run and owned 1865 historic house museum and gardens located in Fairfield across from Ross Bay Cemetery.

If you love literature, also join us at Ross Bay Villa’s ‘Read-In’ on Sunday June 21st, 12-4. Bring a book (and a cushion) and read in the oasis of calm that is Ross Bay Villa’s Victorian garden. Drop in for a chat with others who seek escape from this modern world or quietly enjoy an afternoon among other book-worms. Free admission, tea and cookies by donation.