The Tools of the Trade of Field-working Oral historians and Folklorists

The tape-recorder, microphone, camera, notebook and pencil, and now their digital equivalents, are the tools of the trade of field-working oral historians and folklorists. This paper discusses the contribution that fieldwork in oral history and folklore can make to identifying objects and their uses, documenting and interpreting the past, and recording the experiences of the men and women who used the objects. Illustrated with photos, audio-recordings and film from community projects.
The lecture will be followed by a Q&A. Attendees are also welcome to stay for a free drinks reception from approximately 7pm where you can discuss the lecture and other interests with the speaker, Society Fellows and other attendees.
This talk will be presented by Professor Margaret Bennett, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
Margaret Bennett’s interest in traditional culture began in Skye, where she grew up. She studied Folklore at Memorial University of Newfoundland then gained a PhD in Ethnology from Edinburgh University where she lectured at School of Scottish Studies from 1983 to 96. Author of 15 books, she has received many awards including Honorary Doctorates from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the University of St. Andrews. Margaret is Honorary Professor of Antiquities at the RSA and a Professor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland where she teaches Folklore across the performing arts.

This will be a hybrid event which will take place both in Augustine United Church and online. Please keep an eye on the Society website, e-newsletters and your email inbox for the latest news and further information on Society events.

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Please note, the hearing loop facility at Augustine United Church is currently unavailable. The venue is working to get this fixed as soon as possible. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

The main entrance to the church is up four steps with a handrail.

Step free access is available via a door to the right of the building - please ring the bell for attention. Please note there is a tight turn in this passageway.

A standard accessible toilet is available on the ground floor and lower level (accessible via lift).

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If attending via Zoom, captions are included.

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Header image credit: Professor Margaret Bennett

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Augustine United Church, 41 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, United Kingdom