You’re invited to hear Dr. Barbara Perry as she presents this December's lecture, “Monarchs and Presidents: Anglo-Americans." The ESU Central Florida Branch hosts many prominent authors and scholars including ESU’s own Evelyn Wrench Lecture Series named after our founder. These renowned British and American speakers present programs on a wide range of  topics, including but not […]

From its humble beginnings in 1947, the wife of a Marine Reserve Major wanted todonate dolls to a charity that would distribute the toys to children in need. Sheconvinced her husband to create one. He looked to fellow Marine reservists to get thejob done. The project was a huge success and was officially adopted by the […]

During World War I, Britain made numerous and often contradictory promises in the Middle East—including the Sykes–Picot Agreement, the Balfour Declaration, commitments to Arab leaders, and support for Wilson’s Fourteen Points—in an effort to secure allies. After the Ottoman Empire collapsed, Britain faced the challenge of reconciling these conflicting obligations. Winston Churchill, guided by T. […]

As the calendar turns to 2026, The English-Speaking Union of the United States begins a year-long celebration of 250 years of American independence. Throughout the year, ESU will feature several Happy Hours that give us an opportunity to pause and reflect on this historic milestone.The American Revolution was a war unlike any other—one of ideas […]

The Winter Dinner is a sublime opportunity for Central Florida members and new friends to celebrate the season in style. Come enjoy a night of delectables and wonderful entertainment! Cocktails 6:00 p.m. | Dinner 6:45 p.m. | Entertainment 7:30 p.m. Entertainment: Heather Thorn Vivacity Jazz and Swing Band features renowned musicians who have appeared together […]

Please join us for the Central Florida Branch Shakespeare Competition! School winners from our participating tri-county schools will take the stage to compete for the opportunity to represent our branch in the National Competition in New York City!

After 250 years, why are Jane Austen’s novels still so popular? Jane Austen (1775-1817) is one of the most famous writers in English literature. Her books are read by people all over the world and have been made into countless TV, film, theatre, and radio adaptations. She is known for her sharp wit, social commentary […]

You’re invited to hear Dr. Martin Greig as he presents this March’s lecture, ““British Empire and World War I.” The ESU Central Florida Branch hosts many prominent authors and scholars including ESU’s own Evelyn Wrench Lecture Series named after our founder. These renowned British and American speakers present programs on a wide range of  topics, including […]

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 • 4:00 PM ET. Sponsored by ESU Central PA Branch. Operation Overlord was the code name for the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Western Europe during World War II, launched on June 6, 1944 (D-Day). It was the largest amphibious invasion in history, involving 160,000 troops landing across five Normandy beaches. Winston Churchill, […]

You’re invited to hear Dr. Kevin James as he presents this April’s lecture, ““Why Scotland Made Britain: The Extraordinary Story of How a Small Country Shaped a Modern Nation and Empire” The ESU Central Florida Branch hosts many prominent authors and scholars including ESU’s own Evelyn Wrench Lecture Series named after our founder. These renowned British […]

The English-Speaking Union welcomes its members to NYC for the 2026 ESU Annual Conference. The conference, under the theme “United by Language, Inspired by Liberty.” The conference program will include the ESU 2026 Annual General Meeting, social events such as receptions and meals, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and local tours. We invite you to participate […]

The ESU National Shakespeare Competition returns to New York City for an unforgettable weekend of fun, education, and performance. From Saturday, April 25 to Monday, April 27, students, parents, teachers, and ESU members will gather for three exciting days in the Big Apple. Competition Weekend features a full lineup of activities, including a New York […]