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 […]
A Thursday – A “Robert (“Rabbie”) Burns” night at Glenmore – complete with the ritual procession of the Haggis and Single Malt Scotch whiskey. Kilts, Period Costumes, and Formal Attire are encouraged. This event will be hosted by Glenmore Country Club. Our Branch will be a major sponsor. Details to follow with invitation.
The Shakespeare Competition at Blackfriars Playhouse, the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia at 10:00. For those who wish to remain for lunch, we will gather at a nearby restaurant. We want a good Branch showing in the playhouse. Free.
Mystery Movie – Not a mystery this coming year. It will be the family-friendly Pirates of Penzance. Venue: The Alamo Theater. Time: 12:00 Noon. Children’s best Pirate Hat contest. Winner – free Jumbo Popcorn. Don’t miss this opportunity for the families of our younger members, or the grandchildren of more seasoned members, having a great time […]
Informal TLAB presentation by our TLAB winners of their experiences, and take-aways, of studying in the UK. 3:00-5:00. Invariably a fascinating, and animated, report. Hospitality Committee event. Free. Venue to be determined. Members seriously encouraged to attend. Support our teachers and their schools. Free.
(Rain Date is Sunday April 26th) - Waterperry Farm (Free Union) – Private Guided Tour by Owner-Designer, Katherine Kane at 4:00. Prosecco and Hors D’oeuvres at the Pool House at the end of the tour (rest rooms available). One need not be a garden-lover to find these elegant gardens, their inspiration, glass in hand, to […]
The English-Speaking Union welcomes its members to NYC for the 2026 ESU Annual Conference on April 24th-25th,2026. 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 […]
(This will be the date for the tour if 19 April is rained out)
June 7 – The Annual Garden Party, from 4:00 to 7:00. Venue TBD. More information to be communicated. Come toast the King with President Phil’s Pimm’s No. 1 cup. Secret judges (two men, two women) will determine, respectively, the best chapeau/hat of the day. The winners will receive a bottle of Champagne.
