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!
Chaste girls on roof
August 13, 1966Two Scots girls holidaying in Margate found the attention of some boys a little too amorous. They climbed on to the roof of a cafe and were trapped. The fire brigade was called out to rescue them.
Angling society catches mermaid
August 13, 1948
Film actress Miss Glynis Johns has accepted the Whitstable Angling Society’s invitation by telegraphing “Delighted to become honorary member. – Miranda.” The Society is the first in the world to catch a mermaid.
Dean opens holiday camp
August 13, 1947
Canterbury’s ‘Red’ Dean, Dr Hewlett Johnson opened the Church Army’s Holiday Camp in Seasalter. He took the opportunity to recommend an annual 6 week holiday for all.
Whitstable bombing
August 13, 1940Regent Street in Whitstable suffers as houses are destroyed by enemy action
A seaweed solution
August 13, 1929
The Health Committee of Margate Town Council recommended the purchase of two 30hp Fordson tractors at £315 each for hauling seaweed on the road, the seaweed being brought from the sands in horse wagons. The decaying seaweed on the shore was doing great harm to the town.
Murderer hanged
August 13, 1915George Joseph Smith, the ‘Brides in the Bath’ murderer, including victim Bessie Smith in Herne Bay, was hanged in Maidstone Prison
First aircraft in Herne Bay
August 13, 1912First aircraft lands in Herne Bay at Underdown Farm in Eddington after flying from Gravesend, and flown by Henri Salmet
No jab
August 13, 1904Herbert Swain Brading of The Bungalow, East Cliff, Herne Bay was fined 20s plus costs for not getting his child vaccinated
Queen Victoria Memorial
August 13, 1901
Proposals were made for the acquisition of ten acres of Westgate Court Farm in Canterbury to be laid out as a recreation ground in memory of the late Queen Victoria. The owners, The Ecclesiastical Commission are asking £2,000, £1,000 of which has already been offered anonymously.
Channel tunnel progress
August 13, 1887Journalists and other gentlemen were invited to inspect the experimental Channel Tunnel works at Dover. Government prohibition means the tunnel hasn’t increased in length since 1882. The grey chalk is practically impervious to sea water; only a third of a gallon percolates through per minute.