Event Type: Branch

Takes Place: 9th June 2026

Time: 7.00 p.m.

Venue: to be announced

Description: Todd Gray discusses the sensitive topic of the black fictional toy character which has became a symbol of racism. Todd claims that race was not considered the defining feature of the original golliwog dolls which were created in 1895. His research shows the golliwog’s roles were not only as a childhood doll but as a mascot, corporate trademark, charity fundraiser, entertainment figure and Great War amulet. He reveals the reasons behind how, as Britain’s most prevalent image of a Black man, it developed simultaneously as a cherished childhood toy and racist icon in his new book Waterwogs and the Contested History of the Golliwog.

How to book: The easiest approach is to book tickets through Eventbrite (see The Bridge link) Otherwise contact The Bridge, University of Plymouth thebridge@plymouth.ac.uk Or phone The Bridge T: 01752 585050

Price: Free for national and local members of the HA and for Plymouth University students, Visitors £6.00, concessions £4.00

Tel: 01752 843750

Email: a.cousins345@btinternet.com

Website: www.ha-plymouth.org.uk/

Organiser: Alan Cousins

Lecturer: Dr Todd Gray, historian & Research Fellow at University of Exeter

Region: South-West England

Branch: Plymouth