Dr. John Ball, was a dedicated and highly respected general practitioner in Barton. He devoted countless hours to meticulously documenting the rich tapestry of Barton’s history, stretching back to a time when our ancestors roamed these lands some 10,000 years ago. His remarkable dedication resulted in extensive notes that chronicle the town’s journey through the millennia, culminating in the mid-20th century. Under the pseudonym ‘Doc John,’ he took it upon himself to publish a volume of this extraordinary work.
In the fascinating talk by Paul Mann titled ‘Doc John’s Barton,’ we delve into two significant epochs from these voluminous records. First, we journey back to the ancient period of 10,000 BC, then to a time when Barton stood as a sentinel on the frontier of the Roman Empire, a crucial defensive bastion on its northernmost edge. Then, as time unfolds, we witness the profound transformation brought about by the advent of Celtic Christianity, a pivotal moment that would forever shape the spiritual landscape of Barton.
These stories, preserved through the tireless efforts of Dr. John Ball, offer us a unique window into the past, reminding us of the resilience and enduring legacy of this remarkable town.

Annual membership £10, individual talks £5