Shrewsbury set for major historical warfare event

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The thrust and crack of ‘Pike and Shot Warfare’ – as witnessed in the English Civil War – is set to be commemorated at a major free-to-attend event hosted by University Centre Shrewsbury at historic Rowley’s House.

One of the world’s leading publishers of military history – Helion & Company Ltd – has chosen the town’s iconic building and University Centre Shrewsbury base as the venue for the official launch of a new series of books dedicated to the Century of the Soldier 1618-1721 on Saturday 16 May 2015.

Re-enactment groups – including the Sealed Knot – war-gamers and esteemed historians will be on site from 11am to 4pm for a rich programme of talks, trade stands and displays.

Charles Singleton, who was commissioned to edit the series, which includes his own work Famous By My Sword: The Army of Montrose and the Military Revolution, said:

“It’s going to be a major day for military history fans, make no mistake. Whether you’re a serious scholar or a curious enthusiast, there’s something for you. Come and meet my group – Sir Thomas Fairfax’s Regiment of Foot – along with our fellow local re-enactors and enjoy a free lunch provided by local deli, Taste – as well as hot and cold drinks throughout the day.”

The programme includes a talk by Professor Tim Jenkins, University Centre Shrewsbury Programme Manager, on Richard Baxter and William Rowley – after whom Rowley’s House was named.

Tim Jenkins said:-

“We are extremely proud to host this exciting event and to bring together eminent military historians and enthusiasts at Rowley’s House.

“There is no better place for such an event with both the building’s and Shrewsbury’s remarkable heritage, which we are bringing to the fore with our courses and other activities.

‘We will be holding similar events open to all in the future to share University Centre facilities and knowledge. We look forward to the launch of the fascinating Century of the Soldier book series on 16 May.”

Helion & Company Publisher Duncan Rogers added:

“I’d like to express my personal thanks to the military history community in and around Shropshire who, thanks to their love of this ‘Golden Age of Pike and Shot Warfare’, have rallied to support this event.

“Charles’ Montrose book and the series as a whole is one we’re really proud of – and one we’re delighted to be launching at the heart of Shrewsbury. The Century of the Soldier series covers a period marked not only by great social change, but by fundamental developments in military history matters. It will look at everything from the battles, campaigns, logistics and tactics to the personalities, armies, uniforms and equipment. I look forward to celebrating our authors’ achievements in military history research and scholarship.”

Entrance is free by advance ticket. To apply, please email Charles Singleton at: charlesjsingleton@yahoo.co.uk.