Welcome to Balsall Heath Local History Society

• The magnificent  Baths and Library remain a proud feature of Balsall Heath

Our  image based collection is at Digital Balsall Heath . For hundreds of Balsall Heath images (and new ones added every week) go to Digital Balsall Heath. You can also find us on Facebook at Balsall Heath Local History Society.

Over the last 30 years the Society has grown from strength to strength and has a part-time Development Worker, Chris Sutton. We also have a Victorian Schoolroom, a fascinating range of publications, some interesting projects and active participation in local events such as Balsall Heath Carnival.

Our History Base at St Paul's Venture is open to visitors by appointment every monday or tuesday by prior booking. Either email chris.sutton@stpaulstrust.org.uk or ring 0121 464 1890 to arrange a visit.

Our monthly meetings are held at St Paul's Venture, Malvern St. off Clifton Road, Balsall Heath, on the last Thursday of most months. The 2013 meetings are on the meetings page.

Why not come along? Visitors and new members are always welcome. We make a small charge for visitors.

Heritage Days Are Here Again!

Heritage Open days are coming and, as usual, Balsall Heath Local History Society are taking part! The old Clifton Junior School (entrance on Clifton Road) will be open on the weekend September 14th/15th from 11 a.m to 4 p.m.

The focus will be on the World War 2 Schoolroom with classes running at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. It is the day before evacuation so children will be preparing. They will need to practice their handwriting on a postcard to be sent home and be told what to bring the next day.

There will also be a related exhibition in the hall. Wartime rationing is in force so appropriate refreshments will be served.

A Blue Plaque for Balsall Heath

On Monday, September 22nd a Blue Plaque will be unveiled in honour of John Bowen,( 1844 to 1926), a renowned builder who had his works in George Street.

He built a lot of housing in Balsall Heath as well as many important buildings, including Birmingham’s splendid Victoria Law Courts in Corporation Street. So watch this space for more news about this in September.

(Above) Bowen's former yard in George Street retains some splendid original features.