Morning at the SoG Library: Talks & Resources
The day begins at the Society of Genealogists’ Library, where our expert speaker will guide you through the extensive resources available for researching Quaker ancestry.
This talk gives an introduction to Quaker history. It explores how Quakerism began in 17th century England in the aftermath of the Civil War and the effect it had on the records that were kept. It will provide an overview of the collection at the Library of the Society of Friends which houses the archives of Quakers in Britain and Meeting records for London from the 17th century to the present day. We will give tips on navigating the collection, focusing on genealogy research.
Afternoon (lunch not included): Choice of :
1 Visit the Library of the Society of Friends in Euston Road and get the chance to see some records up close.
OR
2 Walking Tour –
This walk, led by Footprints of London Guide Rob Smith, looks at the founding of the Quaker faith in London. Starting at the Society of Genealogists offices, the walk will visit the burial ground where 4000 people followed the George Fox’s funeral procession in 1690. We‘ll also be visiting Bunhill Fields, the non-conformist burial ground, before crossing into the City of London to hear about the Quakers involvement in the abolition of the trade in enslaved persons at the site of the Devonshire Meeting House, and also talking about Quaker involvement in creating banks that form an important part of the City of London today. The walk will be about 90 minutes and finish near Bank underground station.
BONUS: Quaker Resources at the SoG
After the event you will receive access to a recorded talk by Else Churchill, on the SoG’s own collections relevant to Quaker research. Learn how to navigate our archives and special collections to uncover hidden threads in your family story.
Why Attend?
- Connect with specialists in Quaker family history
- Gain practical tools and insider knowledge for your research
- Learn how to access exclusive digitised records and archives
- Walk the very streets where your ancestors may have lived and worked
Spaces are limited—book your place today and unlock the stories of your Quaker ancestors.
Programme details
| Visit to Library of Society of Friends | In Person | 13/03/2026 | 14:30 - 16:30 | |
| Walk with Rob Smith | In Person | 13/03/2026 | 14:30 - 16:30 |
About the Speaker
Rob Smith
Rob Smith is one of the tour guides with Footprints of London. He also teaches London History classes at Bishopsgate Institute, Morley College and South Thames College.
About the Speaker
Else Churchill
Else Churchill is the Genealogist at the Society of Genealogists in London. Formerly a professional genealogical librarian and researcher, Else has worked for the SoG since 1994. She is the Society’s subject lead, working across the organisation and runs the publishing programme. She was the recipient of the IHGS Julian Bickersteth Memorial Medal in 2023 for her exemplary contribution to family history studies.
2025102117130710063.png){kind=logo}
About the Speaker
Quakers in Britain
The library and archives team at the Library of the Society of Friends, sits within the wider organisation of Quakers in Britain. The team care for and provide access to one of the most important collections of Quaker-related materials in the world. The library at Friends House is open to anyone wishing to use the collection. Further information is available here https://www.quaker.org.uk/resources/library.
13/03/2026
Society of Genealogists
Day out learning all about your Quaker ancestors. Choice of visit to the Library of Friends or guided walk in the afternoon.