The full title of this illustrated talk is 'Alphonse Normandy (1809-1864): chemist, desalination pioneer and Judd Street resident'. Our speaker, Debbie Radcliffe, is resident of a house in Judd Street, which was for many years the home of Alphonse Normandy, whose 1850 handbook on chemical analysis was recommended as a guide "indispensable to the housewife as to the pharmaceutical practitioner." Dr Normandy has been largely written out of history, despite his mid 19th century reputation as an expert in food adulteration. He took out many patents during his career, including improvements to soap, inks, waterproofing fabrics, thimbles and playing cards. He was also a pioneer in desalination applications that are still in use today. 

Price: Free to members. Non-members welcome (£1 at the door). This talk is preceded at 7pm by the Society's AGM (open to CHS members only).