WELCOME to the Malago Society, the local history society for south-west Bristol.
MALAGO first became more than the name of a stream in 1973 when staff and pupils of Bedminster Down School wrote and produced a musical play on the theme of some children looking for the source of the Malago. Anton Bantock, then head of history at the school, began with a group of sixth formers to research the history of the area so that episodes could be included in the show. This in turn led to the collection of photographs and reminiscences. Those involved with the research thought it would be a pity to let their efforts go to waste, so in January 1974 they formed the Malago Archives Committee to continue their work.
In January 1975 a local history evening at the school presented some of the information in the form of readings, songs and dances, and in June 1975 the first Malago Magazine was launched at the school fête. Subsequently, Anton Bantock was asked to run a course of talks on local history for adults, from which the present Malago Society is descended.
We continue to produce historical exhibitions from time to time, and the Malago magazine, which covers the area from Dundry in the south to Long Ashton and the River Avon to the north. Topics vary from schools to shops, pubs to people, churches to railways. No. 59 was published recently. We have also published a number of other books of reminiscences, and five paperback volumes of the history of the Smyth Family of Ashton Court, on which Anton Bantock is the acknowledged authority.
Meetings of the Malago Society are held monthly from September to May, on the fourth Tuesday of the month, at St. Peter's Room (by St Peter's Church), Bishopsworth, at 7.45p.m. Some talks are given by our own members and for others we have speakers on varied historical subjects. Membership for each season is currently £4.00 per adult (students £2.00), and £1.00 each session for visitors. We are a very informal and friendly group and new members are always welcome.
If you would like to know more about the Malago Society, you will be very welcome at a meeting, or you can ring the Chairman, Mavis Eddy, on (0117) 964 6455. From abroad, phone + 44 117 964 6455, where + is the international network access code in your country, or e-mail info@malago.org.uk.
Please note that we do not get involved with family history research.
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