The Dominicans established their Friary by the Stour in the mid-13th century and mediaeval wills provide insights into the life of the Friary before its dissolution in 1538. The buildings then became associated with the weaving industry of the immigrant Walloon community. Plans and drawings provide an exceptional record of the layout and appearance of the Friary in the late C.16th and early C.17th with the Friary church ruinous by 1627, the main gate demolished in 1787 and with much of the site developed for housing in the early C 19th.
Speakers:
• Dr. Sheila Sweetingburgh - 'Supporting the friars: the Dominican Friary in late medieval Canterbury'
• Prof. Jackie Eales - 'Housing and Weaving: Secular Uses of the Blackfriars after the Reformation'.
• Clive Bowley - The topography of the Blackfriars in the Post-dissolution Era
Professor Jackie Eales, Dr. Sheila Sweetingburgh and Clive Bowley will be jointly talking about various aspects of the Blackfriars. The talks, illustrated with historic photos, prints and map views, will attempt to uncover the complex history of the Priory, its decay and re-use in the C.17th and C.18th.
Thursday 19th February 2026 - 6.30 for a 7.00 start
Location: The talk will be held at the Dominican Guest House (Beerling Hall).
Access from St Peters Lane, Canterbury
Cost: Tickets - £10.00 - to include a glass of wine– Please pay at the door
Booking: Booking is advised. Please contact Alan Roberton 7798645141 or spracanterbury@gmail.com