The Scarborough 40 Club Debating Society was established in 1899 and carried on meeting throughout WW1 and WW2 with a diverse range of topics for debate, including the war and the future post war.
The full hand written minutes for 1942-1947 can be read by clicking here:
Here is a short list of highlights from that time:
17th Oct 1941: President calls on members to carry on even though some are now in service to the war effort.
10th December 41: A 'Brains Trust' impromptu evening has a topic 'Are gas masks and black outs really necessary?'
A footnote states the air raid sirens went off during this meeting but everyone stayed put!
14th January 1943 topic presented was on 'Brush making'
21st January 43: A talk on who invented radio ended with 'TV would be more efficient and popular after the war'.
25th March 43: Another air raid siren during the meeting but members carried on.
23rd Sept 43: 44th Annual Report concludes the 4th wartime session saying the Club 'contributes to a buoyant forward looking attitude of mind in the nation which is so neccessary if the waste and destruction caused by war are to be followed by recovery and the establishment of a better and more secure world order'.
28th Oct 43: A debate on 'Evacuee Revelations' moans about the deplorable condition of children evacuated to Scarborough coming from poverty in cities, many were returned home!
2nd Dec 43: A debate on Conscientious Objectors.
16th Dec: A debate entitled 'Am I a God or an internal combustion engine'.
Discussions about stopping smoking during presentations ended in smokers being asked to give 'due consideration'.
A paper on the history of beer concluded that the 40 Club would not be here if it had not been for a few gentlemen gathering for a beer and a debate.
14th Sep 1944: Annual Report states ' We may look forward to a speedy end of war, with increased membership. The 40 Club will enlighten and educate post war debates on our future.
26th Oct 44: The problems in India were discussed and how the Muslim / Hindu situation would be resolved!
Other quotes and topics: 'The young must create a new world order putting social issues before profit'. 'The British master race will lead the world intelligence after the war'. 'Voluntary Hospitals should become part of a National Health Service'.
1945: The Annual Dinner with the Mayor was commenced after a 4 year pause for the war. A paper on Winston Churchill was given along with one entitled 'Britain 1964, world power or satellite?'
1945 Annual Report: The sad loss of the youngest member of the Club, Flight Lieutenant Norman Edward Skinner, KIA in Arnham.
10th October 1945 - Back to normal with a paper on 'Cricket'.
