HISTORICAL LIVES

Historical Lives is a company that is continually striving to offer the very best in hands on education for schools, museums and individuals. This is our profession, not a hobby, and as such we take it very seriously. We know that all schools and museums have their own special requirements and we tailor our content and approach to suit those needs.

 

Term time finds us working mainly in schools and colleges. Our approach is a fun, interactive and memorable approach to learning which takes into account the differing learning styles of pupils and their need to experience in a first hand way. Historical Lives have a breadth of experience, working in a wide variety of educational settings ranging from small single mixed age class schools to five form entry inner city schools, with year two children to six form students, in mainstream and special needs settings. In the state, academies, and independent sector. We are also often engaged by schools to guide and enhance their visits to historical sites such as Wroxeter Roman City, where we can offer a deeper insight and help children to interpret what they are seeing.

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At weekends and in the school holidays our focus switches to Museums and Historical Sites. We have worked in small and large museums alike, such as Chesterfield Museum and The Oxford Museum, and been engaged frequently by English Heritage for over a decade. When working for English Heritage we offer entertainment for children age 3 -90! Our Children's Drill sessions, Gladiator shows and most recently Chariot races are the highlights of many families' visits, with some seeking us out at different venues year after year!

 

A new area we are exploring is providing an unusual element for weddings or other special occasions, with our Medieval Tilt offering a memorable experience for young guests, and our 'Day at the Amphitheatre' providing the perfect experience for the history enthusiast.

 

 

How did we start?

My name is Murray Edwards and I have always had a love for history. I was inspired to become involved in re-enacting when attended the 'Battle of Waterloo' re-enactment in 1995. Seeing history brought to life in that way made me realize the potential for bringing my love of history to a wider audience. Soon after, I joined The Roman Military Research Society and began to learn more about interacting with the public of all ages.

 

Back in 1999 I set out on the path to where I am today, visiting a few schools on my days off. In the early days I learnt a lot from the teachers I was working with about how to work with children effectively and in a fun way. In 2003 I took the decision to become full time and have never looked back.

 

Now full time and working in a variety of periods, my mission is still to inspire a love of history in those I work with whatever their age. I strive to stay up to date with research in all areas Historical lives works in, and to act on any feedback and ideas shared. Now as a fully paid up member of Equity I feel privileged that this is my profession.

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Who are Historical Lives?

No longer working alone I have the pleasure of working with a skilled and well informed team who all share my enthusiasm and love for history. John Blaymires is involved in researching and making weaponry, armour and artefacts. His work is highly sought after and places his commissions are featured include museums all over Europe. The quality of the workmanship never ceases to amaze me, from the wonderful leather reproduction helmets for our gladiators, to the recent exciting development of chariots for our work on Hadrian's Wall. When an extra pair of 'Roman' hands is required for museum engagements, Mark Blaymires steps into the team, his enthusiasm for and knowledge of Roman history second to none!

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I look forward to hearing from you and sharing a great learning experience together.

Murray Edwards (Founder of Historical Lives)

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