The English-Speaking Union (ESU) was established at the end of World War 1 in England and organized in the United States in 1920. The ESU Colonial NC Branch was organized in 1976. Our Branch is also one of the six branches in NC and among 65 branches in the US. In the 1960s the Colonial NC Branch of the ESU had a large number of British members from all around eastern North Carolina, including Greenville, Washington, Bath, and Farmville as well as New Bern. Because of this, meetings were held in a variety of locations. In Farmville, the Country Inn offered a wonderful lunch buffet. The Washington Yacht and Country Club’s hosted meetings that often-featured local TV personality Kay Curry with their breathtaking views of the marina.
Many of our programs celebrate the shared language and cultural connections between the United States and the United Kingdom. Through the ESU Evelyn Wrench Speaker Program, distinguished speakers have visited to present engaging programs on history, literature, culture, and current affairs. Our programs continue to offer a bright spot of lectures from renowned experts. Years ago one speaker arrived from across the pond with a special request: he wanted to see a Walmart! At that time, New Bern did not have one: the closest was Morehead City. What a treat it was to see his reaction to this mammoth shopping paradise. The ensuing excursion to Morehead City, followed by a seafood dinner on the waterfront, became a favorite Branch story.
The Shakespeare contest has always been a priority. Our current president, Bob Husson, has worked like a trojan to make it the success it is. Students in the contest enjoy the camaraderie of other contestants and cultivate orator skills. In the contest students read and analyze Shakespeare’s works and then recite a sonnet and monologue as the competition. The Branch winner advances to the ESU National Shakespeare Competition in New York City. Here, they attend Shakespeare workshops, a Broadway play and compete with students from across the US. The National winner there receives a trip to England with additional educational workshops and cultural events.
The Colonial Branch has worked throughout the years to support local educational efforts promoting English and literacy—particularly considering the influx of immigrants to our area. Through scholarships, grants, educational programs, and community partnerships, the Branch serves students, teachers, English language learners, and members while strengthening our local community. Our cultural and social activities provide delightful gatherings of new and old friends, strengthening our community through friendship, learning, and cultural exchange.