Formby Library echoes with Whaling Stories

Visitors to Formby Library will have a whale of a time next month with a special talk by lecturer Simon Hill.

The Liverpool John Moores academic will visit the Duke Street library on Tuesday March 13 from 2pm to talk about Liverpool’s involvement in the 18th century Whaling trade.

A spokesman for Formby Library said: “In the words of one author, Georgian ‘Liverpool’s whaling trade has received little attention from historians’.

“This stands in sharp contrast to the port’s association with trans-Atlantic slavery. So, it is not surprising that we should want to learn more about Liverpool’s association with whaling during that period.

“The presentation begins in 1750, when the first Liverpool whaling vessel sailed to Greenland, and concludes when the trade effectively ended in 1823.

“Among the issues that shall be discussed are the financing of Liverpool’s whaling industry, patterns of trade and life on board a Liverpool whaling vessel.

“Guests will also be given a fascinating insight into what impact the whaling industry had across Liverpool and Merseyside.”

The talk is free but places are limited and booking is essential. To book or for more information call 01704 874177 or email Formby.library@sefton.gov.uk.