The English-Speaking Union

Education Programs

Evelyn Wrench Speaker Program

The Evelyn Wrench Speaker Series, named for ESU founder Evelyn Wrench, provides speakers to ESU Branches throughout the United States over the course of one to two weeks. Wrench Speakers have been renowned historians, politicians, and authors, presenting their work for ESU members and the general public. Lectures cover a wide range of topics, including but not limited to: current events; history; language and literature; art and architecture; and travel.

 

The National ESU absorbs the transportation costs involved with bringing speakers to the United States as well as their travel between Branches.* The Local Branches cover the cost of any accommodations, local travel, meals, and additional hospitality. 


Our upcoming lecture features Lord Charles Spencer, who will be speaking about his new critically acclaimed book "The White Ship"

View the Program


Due to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ESU launched a virtual Wrench program in 2020, which included a virtual tour of Shakespeare's London by tour guide, Annamaria Dall'Anese, and a lecture by acclaimed author Elizabeth St. John (The Lady of the Tower). Currently, the ESU is working to re-launch the Wrench Program with a kickoff virtual lecture and Q&A session by Lord Charles Spencer in November 2021. In-person Wrench tours are scheduled to resume in the spring of 2022.

 

In 2019, a generous donation was given by Donald Best, Member of the ESU National Board of Directors, to create a fund to underwrite the travel costs of the Wrench Program. The Fund has subsequently been matched by donations from Branches and individuals dedicated to maintaining this program in perpetuity. We thank all of them for their support!