Dialogue Society Explores Kingston’s Heritage at Cultural Brunch Event
28 June – Quaker Centre
On 28 June, Dialogue Society hosted its second community event at the Quaker Centre, this time focusing on the theme “Exploring Kingston’s Heritage.” The brunch brought together around 30–35 participants for a morning of culture, conversation, and music celebrating Kingston’s rich history and the contributions of its diverse residents. Mrs. Mayor was among the attendees, adding a warm civic presence to the gathering.
Brunch and Cultural Exchange
Unlike the first breakfast event, this occasion took the form of a brunch, creating a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. Participants enjoyed a variety of light refreshments while engaging in discussions about Kingston’s local history and the shared experiences that connect long-term residents and newcomers alike.
Interactive Activities and Games
A lively Kahoot quiz tested participants’ knowledge about Kingston and the local landmarks featured during the presentation. The quiz sparked laughter and friendly competition — and fittingly, Mrs. Mayor won first place. Another fun activity invited guests to identify the person who had lived in Kingston the longest; the winner received a book about British history as a special gift.
Table Discussion:
Participants engaged in a thoughtful discussion around the questions: “Which values from Kingston’s past would you like to carry into the future?” and “What kind of Kingston do we want to leave for the younger generations?”
The conversation encouraged everyone to reflect on the community’s shared heritage and the importance of preserving kindness, inclusivity, and neighbourly spirit as Kingston continues to grow. Attendees shared personal stories, memories, and hopes for the borough’s future — from protecting local landmarks to fostering stronger cultural connections between long-time residents and newcomers.
Cultural Presentation and Heritage Sites
As part of the heritage theme, participants were introduced to two significant Kingston landmarks — the Coronation Stone and Clattern Bridge. A short video presentation highlighted the history and stories behind these locations, sparking curiosity and appreciation among attendees.
🏠 Market House
Located in the centre of Kingston’s ancient marketplace, the Market House represents the town’s long-standing tradition of trade and local exchange. The presentation highlighted its Victorian design and its transformation from a civic building into a hub for community engagement and local enterprise.
🌉 Clattern Bridge
Dating back to the 12th century, Clattern Bridge is one of England’s oldest surviving bridges still in use. The presentation explored how this medieval structure not only connected the two sides of the Hogsmill River but also became a timeless symbol of Kingston’s continuity and community spirit.
🕍 All Saints Church
The All Saints Church has stood at the heart of Kingston for nearly a thousand years. Once the site of Anglo-Saxon coronations, it remains a landmark of faith and civic life. Participants learned about the church’s unique architecture, its royal history, and its ongoing role as a gathering place for the local community.
Music and Atmosphere
The event also featured a live performance combining saz and ney, performed by talented musicians Mustafa and Gökhan. Their harmonious performance created a peaceful and reflective mood, beautifully complementing the event’s heritage theme. For many participants, it was their first experience hearing these traditional instruments played together.
The event concluded with warm conversations and a sense of connection — both to Kingston’s local heritage and to one another. True to its mission, Dialogue Society once again succeeded in fostering cultural understanding and community spirit through shared learning and joyful exchange.
