Saturday 14th November from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. at the Isabel Blackman Centre

An illustrated talk: Fossil Folklore, with Ken Brooks

In medieval times a fascinating variety of folklore beliefs developed around fossils, mostly about their medicinal and magical properties. Names, such as ‘thunderbolts’, ‘fairy loaves’, ‘snakestones’ and ‘devil’s toenails’ were widely used for different species.  It was not until the 19^th century and the development of palaeontology that the true origin of fossils was understood. During this illustrated talk we will learn about our ancestors’ ideas regarding fossils, and ‘hands on’ specimens will be featured and discussed.

After twenty years as a schoolteacher, Ken moved into adult education as a tutor specialising in history and geology. In 1992 his enthusiasm for earth sciences led to him forming the Hastings and District Geological Society. He has been awarded the Halsted Medal by the Geologists’ Association, presented for work of

outstanding merit, and published Geology and Fossils of the Hastings Area. He has also appeared on ‘The Sussex Coast with Kate Humble’, contributing a piece on fossils found locally.