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The fascinating true story of how a trade mission in 1897 ended in murder and the destruction of one of West Africa's tribal kingdoms. A period of history our last owners of Lauriston Castle would have been very aware of.


David Clarke is a historian and specialist in the military conflicts of the late Victorian British Empire and the Great War.  He is a teacher in Edinburgh.


All events in our lecture series include an opportunity to meet the guest lecturer, coffee and cakes and a special tour of the Castle.


Take advantage of our offer. Book 10 lectures today for a special price: £86.63.

About the lecturer

David Clarke is a historian and specialist in the military conflicts of the late Victorian British Empire and the Great War.  He is a teacher in Edinburgh.

Love Lauriston Lectures?

Special Offer: select 10 lectures of your choice in the series for just £86.83 | Includes booking fee

Lauriston Castle Lecture Series

The Benin Massacre: The Kingdom the British Burned

Siege of Ladysmith

The Siege of Ladysmith: Nightmare in Natal

Thursday 16 August 2018, 10:30am

Nightmare in Natal

The 118-day siege was the first moment when the horrors of 20th c. warfare were visited on a civilian population, stranding the British army and the...

Archived event

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Find out what's happening now and upcoming in our What's on section.

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Lauriston Castle

Sick Picts from the May Island Monastery: Disease and Healthcare in Early Medieval Scotland.

Wednesday 3 October 2018, 10:30am

Disease and Healthcare in Early Medieval Scotland

The Isle of May is a small island at the mouth of the Firth of Forth, with a 1000 year long history of ecclesiastical use. Excavations have revealed...

Archived event

This is an archive page for a past event

Find out what's happening now and upcoming in our What's on section.

More info