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!
New archbishop
January 24, 1975
Donald Coggan enthroned as Archbishop of Canterbury
Gorillas escape
January 24, 1964Two gorillas (Kula and Shamba) escape from Howletts zoo in Bekesbourne and played happily on the lawns until urged back
Roast chicken and Vodka
January 24, 1961When bearded Eric Jackson, 40, called at a house in Knowle-rd., Maidstone, asking for food, the householder inquired what food he wanted, and he replied: “Roast chicken and Vodka,” said Police Insp. J. Brownlow when prosecuting Jackson at Maidstone for begging. Jackson, given an absolute discharge for a similar offence last month, was jailed for 28 days.
Scouts respect for King
January 24, 1936Thanet Scouts announced when in uniform they would wear a two inch black crepe band round the left arm above the elbow, in accordance with Rule 351 as a token of respect for King George V, who died on Monday.
Last ticket
January 24, 1932
The last passenger ticket issued on the Whitstable line on December 31st has been presented to the Beaney Institute, Canterbury, by Mr. J. H Kaehler. Curiously enough, the ticket number (1830) corresponds with the year the railway was opened.
Corporation buy castle
January 24, 1931
Canterbury Castle — the third largest Norman keep in England – has now passed into the possession of the Corporation, who recently purchased it for £1,500 from the Canterbury Gas and Water Company. About a hundred years ago the Corporation of that day tried unsuccessfully to demolish it and the Gas Company then purchased it.
The char-a-banc nuisance
January 24, 1916A letter from Mr. A.S. Arhawes, Dumpton House concerning prohibition of char-a-bancs was discussed by Broadstairs District Council. He stated ‘The dust in the summer would be appalling, and the noise of horns, changing gears and applying brakes was already most unpleasant.’ No action was taken.
Objections to electric light
January 24, 1898Several objections were raised to electric lighting in Westgate. Solicitors representing mortgagees argued there was not sufficient demand or houses (500) to justify expenditure. Residents didn’t want their roads interfered with, and the Gas Company had already invested £29,000 in their network. The petitions were considered in committee.
Rabbits for hospital
January 24, 1891It was reported that C de L Fannce de Laune Esq. from Sharsted Court had donated 20 rabbits to the Kent & Canterbury Hospital
Auctioneer in pond
January 24, 1886
At a tithe sale at Biddenden the wagon occupied by the auctioneer and a reporter was run into a pond. When the auctioneer jumped out he was seized on, both the crowd and the police struggling for the unfortunate man’s body. The casual throwing of rotten eggs enlivened the proceedings.