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!
Cowboy disappoints
March 18, 1954
Cowboy film star Red Harper, member of the Billy Graham team, arrived at Herne Bay station, greeted by a huge crowd of children dressed as cowboys. Reluctant to ride Gypsy, a horse laid on for him, he led Gypsy a short way before completing his journey to the King’s Hall by car, leaving many lining the route disappointed.
A couple of chips and a promise
March 18, 1949Joan Gomm reminded the Dean, Dr Hewlett Johnson, of his promise to officiate at her wedding, which was arranged to take place soon at St Martin’s Church, Canterbury. The Dean had made his promise before the war, when he saw Joan when she was a little girl eating a bag of chips, and said how much he envied her. “Have a chip then.” she had replied.
Poles going up
March 18, 1949It was reported that after 3 years negotiation, the erection of 4 poles to provide electricity to Swalecliffe Church would cost £90 against £16 when the application was first made.
Fire at Broome Park
March 18, 1940
Fire broke out at Broome Park Mansion, Barham, home of the late Lord Kitchener, which destroyed six bedrooms and took the roof off one wing. Fire brigades from Bridge and Sturry were called at 10pm, and remained at the scene overnight.
New Barretts store
March 18, 1938
Barretts of Canterbury opened their new store in St Peter’s Street to replace the old one destroyed by fire only four months previously, with its modern lines in contrast with surrounding buildings. This building was subsequently badly damaged during the war.
Slightly tiddly
March 18, 1938Bertie Winter was found guilty by the Canterbury bench of riding a motorcycle under the influence of drink, on the basis of his inability to say ‘British Constitution’, couldn’t stand still with his feet together, eyes shut and hands behind his back, and inability to walk a straight line.
Medical examination required
March 18, 1938The Kent Police have issued a warning concerning a middle-aged man, of smart appearance, and with a refined voice, who travels from town to town, calling at various houses and offering jobs to young girls, as assistants in the office of surveyors. The pseudo benefactor insists that the girls should submit to a medical examination. In one case, at Chatham, it is stated that one girl actually agreed, before she ascertained that the whole thing was a fraud.
Trams on Sunday
March 18, 1911
The poll of the burgesses on the proposal to run the Dover municipal trams on Sunday was declared. For Sunday Trams 3674, Against 1910. The question has been agitating the town for about seven years, and may now be regarded as definitely settled.