On the of 22nd November, join Wainwright archivist Chris Butterfield for a special talk marking the 70th anniversary of The Eastern Fells, Alfred Wainwright’s very first Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, alongside curating this year’s landmark exhibition at The Armitt. This talk coincides with the final weeks of the exhibition, which has showcased many rare and personal objects connected to Wainwright’s extraordinary life. Chris will explore Wainwright's wider legacy, including how Fairfield and Dove Crag, described just a short walk from The Armitt, became the first steps in this epic publishing journey. He will also share his involvement with the newly released 70th Anniversary Edition box sets, created to commemorate this milestone for a new generation of fellwalkers. Chris also talks about upcoming projects and new Wainwright stories. This closing talk offers an opportunity to reflect on Wainwright’s influence and to hear first-hand insights from the archivist behind the exhibition.

About the speaker

A lifelong love of the outdoors and admiration for Alfred Wainwright inspired Yorkshire-born engineer Chris Butterfield to build an archive safeguarding the world-famous fellwalker’s legacy. Assisted by his wife, Priscilla, Chris has amassed one of the most comprehensive private collections of Wainwright material, including original negatives, plates, and rare memorabilia. Chris is the author of Wainwright Memories and has published numerous articles about Wainwright’s life and work. He has also appeared on television and radio to discuss the fellwanderer’s remarkable achievements. Beyond curating the archive, Chris runs the website alfredwainwright.co.uk and the popular Facebook group Alfred Wainwright Books & Memorabilia, which has grown into a thriving community of enthusiasts.

This event is in support of the Alfred Wainwright exhibition hosted by The Armitt, co-curated by Chris Butterfield.