London Branch
The Branch has been in existence since 1948 and serves members living in London and the Thames Valley. Meetings are generally held in and around Central London.
Printing Events of Interest to Members
Forthcoming Events
Click here or on the menu button above to find more details of forthcoming events in and around London.Reports on Past Events
St Bride's Printing Library — Thursday 22nd, May 2014
On 22 May 2014, a group of London-based BPS members met for a tour of the St Bride’s Printing Library given by Bob Richardson, the Acting Secretary of the London Branch. There was an introduction to the history of the St Bride’s Foundation and a visit to the Passmore Edwards room (the old reading room) and the associated recreation of William Blades’ study with his collection of books — the Library’s first acquisition. Such treasures as Caxton’s Boethius and a Kelmscott Chaucer were shown followed by a visit to the main library stack where the group saw Eric Gill’s original drawings for Gill Sans and the vast collection of matrices and punches from the Caslon type foundry.
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Over tea and biscuits, the assembled members officially joined the London Branch whose membership had dwindled over recent years and William Rouse offered to take on the role of Branch Chairman and Matt McKenzie the role of Secretary.
In the small amount of time left, the newly invigorated London Branch had a quick look around the workshop and marvelled at the equipment ranging from an 18c wooden press, a Stanhope, Albion, Columbian and the inevitable Heidelberg Tiegel (which was produced from 1950 until 1985).
The good thing is that the group only saw a fraction of the collection, meaning that another visit is absolutely necessary and it is hoped that even more members will benefit from the excellent generosity and knowledge of the evening’s guide, Bob Richardson, whom we thank for giving up his evening to show the group around.
Contacting the Branch
| Branch Chairman | |
| William Rouse (10330) | ku.oc.snoitcuakciwsihc@mailliw |
| Secretary | |
| Matt McKenzie (10577) | moc.sserpikirakakeap@ttam |
| 07836 785505 |