History Talk at Dromana: Ann Wilks Explores British Diplomacy in Iraq and Afghanistan
Join us on 2nd March for an engaging historical journey
History enthusiasts, mark your calendars for an enlightening afternoon at Dromana on 2nd March at 2:30 pm. Ann Wilks CBE, a distinguished historian with a rich academic and professional background, will be delivering a talk titled “Britain’s Man on the Spot in Iraq and Afghanistan: Government and Diplomacy by Sir Henry Dobbs at the Apex of the Empire.”
Ann Wilks holds an MA and B Phil in modern history from Oxford and is a Thouron Scholar who also pursued postgraduate studies in political science at the University of Pennsylvania. Her career trajectory took a fascinating turn from a prospective history lectureship to a prolific period writing for The Economist (US section) and ultimately to a significant role in the UK government service, where she led a regulatory body in the financial services sector.
Following her retirement, Ann’s passion for history was reignited when she discovered a fascinating and previously unknown collection of papers. Since 2009, she has been diligently working on the Dobbs papers, using them as the foundation for articles published in The Royal Asiatic Society Journal and The British Journal of Middle Eastern Studies. Her dedication culminated in the completion of a manuscript that was published as a hardback by Bloomsbury in November 2023, with a paperback release scheduled for the end of May this year.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain unique insights into the intricacies of British government and diplomacy during a pivotal era, as presented by a historian with unparalleled expertise. Join us at Dromana for what promises to be a captivating exploration of Sir Henry Dobbs’s influential role in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In addition to Ann Wilks’s insightful lecture, Charles Keane of Cappoquin House will also deliver a talk on the exploits of his three times great-grandfather, General Sir John Keane of Ghazni, during the First Afghan War of 1839. Both Sir Henry Dobbs and Sir John Keane were neighbours and friends of Dromana, later residing at Cappoquin House and Camphire House on the River Blackwater.
Charles John Keane, born during World War II in 1941 in East Coker, Somerset, brings a wealth of diverse experiences to his presentation. Educated at Eton and Christ Church, Oxford, and specializing in accountancy at PMM London, Keane also studied free at the Gembloux University in Belgium, where he became fluent in French. Married to Corinne since 1977, he is a father of three and a grandfather of five.
Keane’s work experience spans across several prominent roles, including positions at PMM Paris, Bunge Antwerp, Kenneth Wilson UK, Allaeys NV, Lendit SA Belgium, and as a partner at Cappoquin Estate, where he introduced innovative Belgian farming practices such as tramlines, split nitrogen
applications, and advanced crop spraying techniques to the UK and Ireland. His career also includes marketing crop sprayers, currency trading, and real estate investment.
Currently, Charles Keane serves as a tour guide for Cappoquin House and is passionate about garden design and management. His talk promises to offer a compelling narrative of General Sir John Keane’s military achievements and a glimpse into the rich history of the Keane family.
Join us at Dromana for a comprehensive exploration of history, diplomacy, and personal narratives that have shaped the legacy of both Sir Henry Dobbs and General Sir John Keane. This event is not to be missed by history enthusiasts and those interested in the intricate tapestry of British military and diplomatic history. Followed by tea, nibbles and chats. Booking through Eventbrite or contact Barbara Grubb on email info@dromanahouse.com 086 8186305.