On this day in Kent
What has happened on this day in Kent over the years, with the occasional smile.
Covering major international events to the tiniest bit of trivia, it is amazing how many aspects of life have changed over the years, and equally amazing, how many things have remained the same.
This is an ongoing project which I hope to expand. Still a lot of work going on behind the scenes!
First pipeless organ
August 14, 1947
Organists from all over the country gathered at New Romney Parish Church to hear a recital on the first pipeless organ to be installed in a church. The organ is made by Compton, with loudspeakers taking the place of pipes, and allowing church architecture to remain unhidden.
Honesty has its own reward
August 14, 1942
1942 A boy who found a purse containing £18 19s. 4d. in Faversham Recreation Gound took it to the Police Station. It was claimed there by a woman who left a shilling for the finder!
First Anderson shelters
August 14, 1939
The first of Ramsgate’s 3,746 Anderson shelters were delivered to householders in Newington Road. Erected by the Borough Engineer’s department, they were well received, although one lady complained she would have to relocate her chrysanthemums, another annoyed it arrived on her washing day.
Telephone House opens
August 14, 1939
Telephone House opened in Canterbury, as the HQ covering 8,665 subscribers across Kent. Consisting of 310,000 bricks and 2,100 panes of glass, it provides 34,000 sq ft of office space for 250 employees. It is the largest and most modern office block in Canterbury.
No bribes for monkeys
August 14, 1936On their 3rd day of freedom, escaped monkeys Sam and Sarah continue to entertain Margate holidaymakers and have not succumbed to offers of many pounds of tomatoes, bananas, cream cake, crab and cucumber. Sam was at liberty for 6 weeks after a previous escape.
Uniform ugly as sin
August 14, 1934
Margate Council supported a resolution made by the Watch Committee to inform the Home Office that they do not favour the standardisation of police uniform. They suggested that it was the thin end of a wedge to nationalise the police force, and in any case, the proposed uniform was ‘as ugly as sin.’
I’ve got a brand new combine harvester
August 14, 1933
A new combined Harvester Thresher, made by the International Harvester Co. Ltd. was used for the first time in Kent, at Tottington Farm, Aylesford. The machine cuts, thrashes and bags the crop, leaving only stubble and straw. It is expected to revolutionise harvesting operations.
Taxi!
August 14, 1920‘PHONE “One Oh One, Canterbury,” for Taxis and Private Hire Cars. The smartest and most luxurious cars, driven only by efficient drivers. Punctual attendance to all orders.
First international beauty contest
August 14, 1908The world’s first international beauty contest was held at Folkestone, Kent.
Coach accident
August 14, 1889Mr Thomas Burren, proprietor of the “Little Wonder” coach running between Canterbury and Herne Bay, had an accident with the vehicle on Marine Parade, Herne Bay. A clergyman and the guard were badly injured, and Burren left is lying prostrate from the shock.