Bristol gained a cathedral and consequently became a city in the early 1540s as a result of Tudor 'restructuring' - also known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the Protestant Reformation in England. Situated on the tidal River Avon, a tributary of the River Severn that offered a convenient haven for trading vessels, Bristol had long been a significant seaport for the Irish Sea and Atlantic Ocean, and for voyages of exploration. At times rather radical and with a dissenting streak, Bristol also gained considerable wealth from the notorious triangular trade with West Africa, the Caribbean and British North American colonies. Bristol has adapted over time to meet new technological challenges and take advantage of economic opportunities to become a lively contributor in the 21st century.
Sunday 31 August 2 - 4pm
Fee: $20 due by Friday 29 August