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!
Tiger Moth performs opening
April 11, 1959
Four Tiger Moth aircraft circled the sky over a new pub of the same name in Maidstone Road, Chatham, with one landing to perform the opening ceremony. Col. R. L. Preston, secretary general of the Royal Aero Club performed the ceremony from the cockpit by pulling a cord which unveiled the inn sign. Licensee Colin Newton served Col. Preston the first pint to be served that day.
New fire station
April 11, 1959
A new £24,000 Ashford fire station was opened at Bybrook, with 2 appliance bays, full maintenance facilities, and recreational and dining facilities for firemen. The drill yard boasts a 4-floor drill tower and smoke chamber. The station officer’s house and 10 firemen’s houses adjoin the station. This firestation served until 1995.
Dungeness church consecrated
April 11, 1954
Archbishop of Canterbury Geoffrey Fisher consecrates the first church in Dungeness. Known as The Sanctuary, it was previously a pumping house for the wartime PLUTO oil pipeline. It is the culmination of 3 years hard work of the small community there. The building became a community hall before refurbishment to a private residence in 2014.
POW go slow
April 11, 1947Complaint was made to the Kent Farmers’ Union that German POWs had threatened a ‘go slow’ unless they were given cigarettes. The Chairman suggested that some farmers had not got the guts to stand up to the prisoners be relenting to their demands, and they should refuse to sign the good conduct report.
Hales Place demolished
April 11, 1928
Hales Place, 17th century mansion latterly occupied by Jesuits in Canterbury, is demolished by gelignite.