Hidden political history of York's famous Rowntree family to be revealed

The Rowntree Society is hosting a talk titled The Politics Behind the Chocolate later this month.

The Rowntree Society is hosting a talk titled The Politics Behind the Chocolate later this month <i>(Image: The Rowntree Society)</i>

(Image: The Rowntree Society)

Political influences that shaped one of York’s most famous families will be explored at a public event later this month.

The Rowntree Society is hosting a talk titled The Politics Behind the Chocolate, examining the political ideas and philosophies that influenced the Rowntree family’s work in York and beyond.

It takes place at the De Grey Lecture Theatre at York St John University on Saturday, October 31, from 2pm to 4pm.

Nick Smith, executive director at The Rowntree Society, said: "The Rowntree name is familiar across York, but there is always more to discover about the family and the ideas that influenced them.

"This event invites people to explore their political connections and consider how these helped shape their work in the city and beyond.

"We’re especially pleased that research carried out by one of our summer interns has helped shape this event."

The Rowntrees are well known for their work in chocolate, Quaker beliefs and social reform, but less widely understood are the political ideas that underpinned their actions.

The event will explore the family’s involvement with Liberal politics, their engagement with socialist ideas, and the broader political landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Admission is free, but booking is essential.