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!
Inn to be demolished
January 18, 1958
Canterbury Council conceded to the demolition of the 600 yr old Fleur de Lys Inn in the High St for retail development.
England’s youngest Granny
January 18, 1954Blonde Mrs Hilda Hart of Canterbury claimed the title of England’s youngest grandmother, aged 34. Her first grandchild, a boy, was born to her elder daughter, Mrs Joyce Love, just 17, wife of a soldier, who lives at 11 Edgar Road. Mrs Hart married at 16. Her husband is Mr. Sydney (Dasher) Hart, well known Canterbury newspaper seller.
Band for box
January 18, 1952
Mention the new post box standing on the Green and Chartham villagers see red. At night, they have walked into it and gone off black and blue with bruises. Now – in the interests of public safety – the parish council are asking the GPO to paint a white band around the box.
New post office
January 18, 1868
Mr. Neame’s house on King Bridge, Canterbury, purchased by Government for the new Post Office, will shortly be altered for the purposes required. The plans have been approved by the Government Surveyor, and are in the hands of the builder, Mr. J. E. Wiltshier. The second and third stories of the house are to be set aside for the use of the Stamp and Inland Revenue Offices; the building, which will be finished by the beginning of April, will be an ornament to the city, and the putting together the three government offices will be a great convenience.
Henry VI oversees executions
January 18, 1451
King Henry VI was in Canterbury, overseeing the execution of 8 of the 26 leaders in last year’s rebellion led by Jack Cade. They had protested about corruption, maladministration, abuse of power of the king’s closest advisors and local officials.