The Public History Grad Con team is excited to invite you to attend the 2025 conference, in collaboration with the Institute for the Public Understanding of the Past (IPUP), at the University of York.
Taking place on Friday 12th September, the conference brings together postgraduate students, as well as early career researchers and practitioners, to discuss and contribute to the wider field of Public History.
This year’s theme is ‘Histories of the Unexpected.’
You can expect to hear about the unique research surrounding unconventional topics, as well as those which show more conventional ones in a new light.
Our keynote speaker is author and public historian Sally Coulthard, author of A Brief History of the Countryside in 100 Objects and A Short History of the World According to Sheep.
The 2025 Conference will also feature four panels of student papers, discussing themes such as conflict, memory, iconography, and embodiment. Whether you are interested in the ways in which we can make history through creation, or want to hear about how we can include animals in heritage spaces, this year's conference will have something for you.
New to our 2025 Conference, we will be holding a poster fair. This will be able to provide attendees with a dedicated time to view and appreciate the displayed research posters, but also discuss with their creators' vital research. We hope that this allows a chance for both visitors and researchers to informally chat and learn about these unexpected public history interests!
The day finishes with the Annual IPUP Reception at the wonderful Merchant Taylor's Hall. This is an opportunity to celebrate this year's MA and PhD students and to welcome the incoming cohort of 2025/26! Please join us for drinks and dinner, 6.30pm-9.00pm.
Outline Programme:
