Annual Proctor Memorial Lecture 2025

We are delighted to welcome Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, historian and former President of Iceland, as our keynote speaker.

Representing the University of Iceland, Guðni brings a unique perspective shaped by his academic expertise and public service. His lecture will explore themes at the intersection of maritime history, national identity, and international relations, offering fresh insights into the role of the sea in shaping modern societies.

Join us for this special occasion as we celebrate maritime scholarship and honour the memory of David Proctor, whose work continues to inspire generations of historians.

This year’s lecture will be held in person on Thursday 11 December 2025, and promises to be a compelling evening of historical insight and reflection. Hosted by Lloyd’s Register Foundation on behalf of the British Commission for Maritime History (BCMH). Booking is essential as places are limited.

Registration from 16:45, Lecture starts at 17.15. Following the lecuture, guests are invited to join BCMH for a drinks reception on the General Committee Landing until 20:00.

Please note, there is a small charge to join this in person event, this is to help the BCMH toward supporting speaker’s travel to the lecture, and to also ensure that people who have registered want to come on the night (we usually have a large waiting list for this popular event and want to avoid ‘no shows’ where possible*).