Event Date: Thu - 12 Nov 2026

Event Time: 7:00 pm

Location: Depot Studio, Depot, Pinwell Road, Lewes, BN7 2JS

A talk and PowerPoint presentation in the Depot Studio. Music journalist and historian Tony Montague shares his research into the life and legend of Billy Waters, who first brought African American music and dance to Britain.

A sailor from New York, Waters (c1776 to 1823) became a naval gunner in the Napoleonic Wars. He lost a leg in a fall and supported a family as a fiddling, singing and dancing busker on the streets of Regency London. He became a celebrated figure, but was ruthlessly exploited and then defamed.

The talk traces his story in 50 images, with sound clips and short video. It was first presented at the British Library.

Starts at 7pm.

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