Join us this July for the Dr Johnson's House monthly lecture, sponsored by the Fleet Street Quarter.

Dr Samantha Ward-Smith’s talk examines how archaeology and historical records surrounding a building can shape historical fiction, with her novel Tower of Vengeance set in the Medieval Tower of London. She shows how writers use research—architecture, excavations, chronicles, and archival sources—to create an authentic sense of the past.

Her work explores elements of daily life, including the lesser-known history of taverns within the Tower itself—spaces that evolved from simple alehouses to more established drinking quarters serving garrisoned soldiers, workers, and visitors. It also reflects the turbulent experiences of the Jewish community, who endured persecution, forced levies, and eventual expulsion. These historical threads are subtly woven into the story to deepen the setting without overwhelming the reader.

Biography

Dr Samantha Ward-Smith recently published her debut novel Tower of Vengeance, a historical fiction novel set in the Tower of London in 13th century. She lived in London for over 30 years working in investment banking, also pursuing a PhD in English at Birkbeck. For the past 13 years, she has also been a volunteer at the Tower, which has provided her with invaluable insights into its history—many of which deeply influenced her writing. She now lives in Kent by the sea with her two cats, Belle and Rudy.

Tickets

Your ticket includes the opportunity to look around Dr Johnson's House, to learn about the unique architectural features of the last surviving Grade I listed historic townhouse in Fleet Street Quarter. It also includes a complimentary lunch from local business Dilieto on Fleet Street.

The small charge for this lecture is to ensure good attendance and reduce drop outs, and is far below the normal cost for a similar event. This lecture series has been sponsored by the Fleet Street Quarter.

Lunch

Lunch will be served at this event: please let us know 48 hours in advance, via an Eventbrite message, if you have any specific dietary requirements or have any allergies.

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The Tower of London: Creating a 13th-Century World Within its Walls