Join the National Liberal Club to mark the anniversary of William Gladstone’s passing with a unique event honouring one of the most profound and impactful moments in his illustrious career. In proud partnership with Gladstone’s Library and the Armenian Institute.

In the face of the Hamidian Massacres, when the Armenian people were subjected to horrific atrocities under the Ottoman Empire, Gladstone’s moral compass and dedication to human rights led him to act. Responding to a heartfelt appeal from the Armenian community, Gladstone—despite ill health and advanced age—emerged from retirement to deliver a rousing speech in Chesterton Town Hall, condemning the atrocities.

His words, fueled by his Liberal values and Christian faith, reverberated across the globe, culminating in his timeless declaration: “To serve Armenia is to serve civilisation.”

Gladstone’s advocacy extended to a rally in Liverpool, where he addressed over 6,000 people, further galvanising international attention to the plight of Armenians. His courageous stand not only offered hope to a persecuted people but also illuminated the global conscience.

This special event, in collaboration with Gladstone’s Library and the Armenian Institute, celebrates that historic moment. It also features a rare opportunity to view artefacts gifted to Gladstone by the Armenian people in gratitude for his unwavering support.

Key speakers:

● Patrick Derham OBE - Chair of the Trustees of Gladstone’s Library

● Professor Michael Wheeler - cultural historian of the Victorian age and a Visiting Professor of English at the University of Southampton.

● Tatiana Der Avedissian - Chair of the Armenian Institute and Head of Business Development at The Economist Group

● Francis Gladstone - Great-grandson of William Gladstone

We are also honoured to have music from classical pianist Sipan Olah (Artistic Director and Conductor of KCCA), who will be playing two unique Armenian piano pieces by Komitas and Arno Babajanyan at our 3-course dinner.

Event details:

● Date: Monday, 19th May 2025

● Time: 6:45 PM arrival | 7:45 PM start

Tickets:

● Non-members: £84

What’s included with your ticket:

● A welcome drink on arrival

● A 3-course dinner

● A half bottle of wine

● Access to Gladstone and Armenian artefacts on display, highlighting the historical connection to William Gladstone

● Three talks from expert speakers and readings from Francis Gladstone, great-grandson of William Gladstone

● Music from classical pianist Sipan Olah (Artistic Director and Conductor of KCCA)

Tickets can be bought by registering as a guest on the National Liberal Club events portal, and purchasing your ticket on the event listing. Alternatively, you can book by calling our events team on 0207 968 0919.

Ensure to book early, we expect tickets to sell fast!