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Posts by Kent Archives

Image: a man operates a machine comprising large rollers at Sittingbourne Paper Mill (Bowaters), 26th November 1973. Following the success of our event last October aiming to enhance our cataloguing of the Sittingbourne Paper Mill collection, Kent Archives is returning to Sittingbourne Library on Friday 24th April, 11am - 4:30pm. Former employees and anyone interested in the history of the mill are warmly invited to join us and view a display of historical photographs and documents. Maybe you can identify members of staff, or recognise different types of machinery? Impart your knowledge to our team – we'd love to hear from you! We're also keen to capture your memories of the mill through oral history interviews, if you might like to take part. We might not have time or resources to interview you during the event but hope to come back at a later date to complete this. If you would like to give an interview, please email our engagement officer, Mark Bateson: mark.bateson@kent.gov.uk

Image: a man operates a machine comprising large rollers at Sittingbourne Paper Mill (Bowaters), 26th November 1973. Following the success of our event last October aiming to enhance our cataloguing of the Sittingbourne Paper Mill collection, Kent Archives is returning to Sittingbourne Library on Friday 24th April, 11am - 4:30pm. Former employees and anyone interested in the history of the mill are warmly invited to join us and view a display of historical photographs and documents. Maybe you can identify members of staff, or recognise different types of machinery? Impart your knowledge to our team – we'd love to hear from you! We're also keen to capture your memories of the mill through oral history interviews, if you might like to take part. We might not have time or resources to interview you during the event but hope to come back at a later date to complete this. If you would like to give an interview, please email our engagement officer, Mark Bateson: mark.bateson@kent.gov.uk

Can you help us enhance our cataloguing of the Sittingbourne Paper Mill collection?

Former employees and anyone with an interest in the mill are invited to a special event at #Sittingbourne Library on Friday 24th April, 11am - 4:30pm

🏭 More info:
kentlra.qrplanet.com/fbarchivessittingbourne2026

5 days ago 7 3 0 0
About the talk: 'The past is a foreign country. They do things differently there.' - L. P. Hartley After the dissolution of the monasteries, the UK gentry organised most schooling of reading and writing, to prepare children for 'that state of life, unto which it shall please God to call me' (Church of England catechism) – classical instruction for their own children and, from the Industrial Revolution, mechanical drills for children 'called to a mechanical state of life' – until the late nineteenth century. In this talk, Tony Fairman will examine four letters held by Kent Archives which demonstrate the consequences of two different educations and schoolings. Of the four letters, two were written by a labourer's son (aged 19-20, in the fourth and fifth years of his five-year apprenticeship to a watchmaker and silversmith) to his parish overseer, dated 1821-22; and two were written by a gentleman's son (aged 7-8, in his first two years at boarding school) to his parents, dated 1834-35.

About the talk: 'The past is a foreign country. They do things differently there.' - L. P. Hartley After the dissolution of the monasteries, the UK gentry organised most schooling of reading and writing, to prepare children for 'that state of life, unto which it shall please God to call me' (Church of England catechism) – classical instruction for their own children and, from the Industrial Revolution, mechanical drills for children 'called to a mechanical state of life' – until the late nineteenth century. In this talk, Tony Fairman will examine four letters held by Kent Archives which demonstrate the consequences of two different educations and schoolings. Of the four letters, two were written by a labourer's son (aged 19-20, in the fourth and fifth years of his five-year apprenticeship to a watchmaker and silversmith) to his parish overseer, dated 1821-22; and two were written by a gentleman's son (aged 7-8, in his first two years at boarding school) to his parents, dated 1834-35.

In his lunchtime talk yesterday, Tony Fairman examined four letters held by Kent Archives which demonstrate the consequences of the different educations received by a labourer's son and gentleman's son in the early 19th century.

Thank you for an insightful presentation, Tony! ✍️

1 week ago 4 1 0 0
Shown here is Dr Mark Bateson (Archive Engagement Officer) representing Kent Archives at Maidstone Museum's Local History Fair, Saturday 11th April 2026. He was joined by colleague Alice Imperatori (Archive Services Officer – not in photograph).

Shown here is Dr Mark Bateson (Archive Engagement Officer) representing Kent Archives at Maidstone Museum's Local History Fair, Saturday 11th April 2026. He was joined by colleague Alice Imperatori (Archive Services Officer – not in photograph).

We were delighted to speak to so many of you at our stall last Saturday, promoting our archive service at #Maidstone Museum's Local History Fair alongside colleagues from across the heritage sector.

Our thanks to Maidstone Museum for hosting a wonderful event!

1 week ago 4 0 0 0
Shown here is a promotional graphic advertising Maidstone Museum's Local History Fair. The event is taking place on Saturday 11th April 2026, from 10am - 3pm, and will be attended by historical societies, museums, and heritage organisations from across Kent. Maidstone Museum is located at St Faiths Street, ME14 1LH.

Shown here is a promotional graphic advertising Maidstone Museum's Local History Fair. The event is taking place on Saturday 11th April 2026, from 10am - 3pm, and will be attended by historical societies, museums, and heritage organisations from across Kent. Maidstone Museum is located at St Faiths Street, ME14 1LH.

Join Mark and Alice from Kent Archives at #Maidstone Museum's Local History Fair, taking place today from 10am to 3pm.

Learn about our collections and services, view a small selection of original documents, and discover other heritage organisations from across the county 🤝

1 week ago 4 0 1 0
Shown here is a graphic displaying Kent Archives' opening hours for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 2026.

Shown here is a graphic displaying Kent Archives' opening hours for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 2026.

Kent Archives will be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Monday whilst our team consumes copious amounts of chocolate, but we'll be open as usual this Saturday 4th April.

Feel free to hop into our Search Room — just remember to leave any #Easter eggs in the lockers… 🐰🍫

2 weeks ago 2 0 0 0
About the talk: 'The past is a foreign country. They do things differently there.' – L. P. Hartley, 1953 After the dissolution of the monasteries, the UK gentry organised most schooling of reading and writing, to prepare children for 'that state of life, unto which it shall please God to call me' (Church of England catechism) – classical instruction for their own children and, from the Industrial Revolution, mechanical drills for children 'called to a mechanical state of life' – until the late nineteenth century. By comparing four letters held by Kent Archives, which two boys wrote, we see some consequences of two different educations and schoolings: 1) the first and last of eight letters, which a labourer's son (aged 19-20, in the fourth and fifth years of his five-year apprenticeship to a watchmaker and silversmith) wrote to his parish overseer, dated 1821-22; and 2) the first and last of five letters, which a gentleman's son (aged 7-8, in his first two years at boarding school) wrote to his parents, dated 1834-35. Tony Fairman was trained in linguistics for teaching English as a second or foreign language, and taught for many years in Africa. For the past 20+ years he has researched and published on LALPs (Letters of Artisans and the Labouring Poor) applying to English parishes for poor relief, from 1750-1834. He is also interested in anything written by children during the same period.

About the talk: 'The past is a foreign country. They do things differently there.' – L. P. Hartley, 1953 After the dissolution of the monasteries, the UK gentry organised most schooling of reading and writing, to prepare children for 'that state of life, unto which it shall please God to call me' (Church of England catechism) – classical instruction for their own children and, from the Industrial Revolution, mechanical drills for children 'called to a mechanical state of life' – until the late nineteenth century. By comparing four letters held by Kent Archives, which two boys wrote, we see some consequences of two different educations and schoolings: 1) the first and last of eight letters, which a labourer's son (aged 19-20, in the fourth and fifth years of his five-year apprenticeship to a watchmaker and silversmith) wrote to his parish overseer, dated 1821-22; and 2) the first and last of five letters, which a gentleman's son (aged 7-8, in his first two years at boarding school) wrote to his parents, dated 1834-35. Tony Fairman was trained in linguistics for teaching English as a second or foreign language, and taught for many years in Africa. For the past 20+ years he has researched and published on LALPs (Letters of Artisans and the Labouring Poor) applying to English parishes for poor relief, from 1750-1834. He is also interested in anything written by children during the same period.

Next lunchtime talk: Monday 13th April, 1-2pm

'"The past is a foreign country": schooling and writing in early nineteenth century Kent' presented by Tony Fairman – Independent scholar

Book your free seat today:
📧 archives@kent.gov.uk
☎️ 03000 420 673
#Education #History #Kent

2 weeks ago 5 1 1 0
Shown here is part of the will of John Hawke of Garlinge in the parish of Petham, made 1604 and proved 1606 [ref. PRC/32/41] The scribe used an ink made from the tannic acid of oak galls; growths formed by the tree in reaction to hosting the eggs of gall wasps. Combining tannic acid with iron salts and a binder creates a dark ink which, today, appears purple/brown-black in colour. Many pre‑20th century manuscripts held by Kent Archives are written in this ink – favoured by European scribes for its permanence, water resistance and ease of manufacture. However, iron gall ink becomes acidic over time and can oxidise due to excess iron in the ink formulation, causing weakening of the substrate upon which it has been used. At first, diffused halos develop around written text, followed by the ink striking through the document, leaving a shadowy impression on the verso. Eventually, the ink etches into the substrate to such an extent that material loss occurs, often referred to as lacing.

Shown here is part of the will of John Hawke of Garlinge in the parish of Petham, made 1604 and proved 1606 [ref. PRC/32/41] The scribe used an ink made from the tannic acid of oak galls; growths formed by the tree in reaction to hosting the eggs of gall wasps. Combining tannic acid with iron salts and a binder creates a dark ink which, today, appears purple/brown-black in colour. Many pre‑20th century manuscripts held by Kent Archives are written in this ink – favoured by European scribes for its permanence, water resistance and ease of manufacture. However, iron gall ink becomes acidic over time and can oxidise due to excess iron in the ink formulation, causing weakening of the substrate upon which it has been used. At first, diffused halos develop around written text, followed by the ink striking through the document, leaving a shadowy impression on the verso. Eventually, the ink etches into the substrate to such an extent that material loss occurs, often referred to as lacing.

I is for… #IronGallInk

Made from oak gall tannic acid and iron salts, this ink was favoured by European scribes for over 1400 years owing to its permanence and ease of manufacture. Over time it can deteriorate, causing a type of substrate loss known as lacing.

#KAconservationAtoZ

3 weeks ago 5 2 0 0
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Shown here is João, a former volunteer at Kent Archives. He can be seen in our Search Room, transcribing one of the late-19th century nominal registers from our Maidstone Prison collection [sub-fonds ref. PR/Md] From hosting reading groups to providing customers with IT support and developing resources to aid historical research, the Time2Give scheme offers members of the public the opportunity to volunteer at Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives. For further information and to submit an application, visit: www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/libraries/clubs-and-activities-in-libraries/volunteer-in-libraries-and-archives

Shown here is João, a former volunteer at Kent Archives. He can be seen in our Search Room, transcribing one of the late-19th century nominal registers from our Maidstone Prison collection [sub-fonds ref. PR/Md] From hosting reading groups to providing customers with IT support and developing resources to aid historical research, the Time2Give scheme offers members of the public the opportunity to volunteer at Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives. For further information and to submit an application, visit: www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/libraries/clubs-and-activities-in-libraries/volunteer-in-libraries-and-archives

We recently said farewell to João who has volunteered with us for several months, transcribing the late-19th century nominal registers from our #Maidstone Prison collection.

Thank you for all your hard work, João! You'll be greatly missed and we wish you every success for the future.

1 month ago 5 1 0 0
Mark Ballard presents his lunchtime talk at Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone. About the talk: Kent Archives' guide, 'How to Research the History of Your House', outlines the sources available at Kent Archives for researching properties, including deeds proving title to land, whether built upon or not. Mark will explain how to locate and interpret title deeds, discuss their limitations, and show how other sources may be used to supplement them. He will also demonstrate how title deeds can aid research into historic houses that no longer exist, using the Tonbridge abode of Jane Austen’s grandfather, William Austen, as an example. Mark Ballard has worked for Kent Archives since 1991, with an interlude at Tower Hamlets Archives working on title deeds for its National Lottery Fund-supported Land and Lives project and the Survey of London volumes on Whitechapel. He has published articles about Jane Austen’s Kent relatives, including 'Tales of Inheritance from West Kent' in 'Jane Austen's Geographies', edited by Robert Clark (Routledge, 2018).

Mark Ballard presents his lunchtime talk at Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone. About the talk: Kent Archives' guide, 'How to Research the History of Your House', outlines the sources available at Kent Archives for researching properties, including deeds proving title to land, whether built upon or not. Mark will explain how to locate and interpret title deeds, discuss their limitations, and show how other sources may be used to supplement them. He will also demonstrate how title deeds can aid research into historic houses that no longer exist, using the Tonbridge abode of Jane Austen’s grandfather, William Austen, as an example. Mark Ballard has worked for Kent Archives since 1991, with an interlude at Tower Hamlets Archives working on title deeds for its National Lottery Fund-supported Land and Lives project and the Survey of London volumes on Whitechapel. He has published articles about Jane Austen’s Kent relatives, including 'Tales of Inheritance from West Kent' in 'Jane Austen's Geographies', edited by Robert Clark (Routledge, 2018).

Our thanks to Mark Ballard for launching this year's lunchtime talks programme with an insightful presentation on using title deeds to aid historical research.

Did you know that we're now selling de-accessioned books at our talks? Have a browse when you next attend 📚👀

1 month ago 2 2 0 0
About the talk: Kent Archives' guide, 'How to Research the History of Your House', outlines the sources available at Kent Archives for researching properties, including deeds proving title to land, whether built upon or not. Mark will explain how to locate and interpret title deeds, discuss their limitations, and show how other sources may be used to supplement them. He will also demonstrate how title deeds can aid research into historic houses that no longer exist, using the Tonbridge abode of Jane Austen’s grandfather, William Austen, as an example. Mark Ballard has worked for Kent Archives since 1991, with an interlude at Tower Hamlets Archives working on title deeds for its National Lottery Fund-supported Land and Lives project and the Survey of London volumes on Whitechapel. He has published articles about Jane Austen’s Kent relatives, including 'Tales of Inheritance from West Kent' in 'Jane Austen's Geographies', edited by Robert Clark (Routledge, 2018).

About the talk: Kent Archives' guide, 'How to Research the History of Your House', outlines the sources available at Kent Archives for researching properties, including deeds proving title to land, whether built upon or not. Mark will explain how to locate and interpret title deeds, discuss their limitations, and show how other sources may be used to supplement them. He will also demonstrate how title deeds can aid research into historic houses that no longer exist, using the Tonbridge abode of Jane Austen’s grandfather, William Austen, as an example. Mark Ballard has worked for Kent Archives since 1991, with an interlude at Tower Hamlets Archives working on title deeds for its National Lottery Fund-supported Land and Lives project and the Survey of London volumes on Whitechapel. He has published articles about Jane Austen’s Kent relatives, including 'Tales of Inheritance from West Kent' in 'Jane Austen's Geographies', edited by Robert Clark (Routledge, 2018).

Announcing our first lunchtime talk of 2026!
Monday 9th March, 1-2pm:

'Using title deeds to research historic buildings, and to trace lost houses' presented by Mark Ballard – Archivist at Kent Archives.

Book your free seat today:
📧 archives@kent.gov.uk
☎️ 03000 420 673

1 month ago 5 3 1 0
Shown here is an engraving depicting the west prospect of Knole in Sevenoaks, taken from 'Thirty six different views of noblemen and gentlemen's seats in the County of Kent…' by Thomas Badeslade, n.d. [c.1750] (ref. C150603044) Overlaid are two red squares, marked 'A' and 'B', highlighting areas of the estate that appear in the recent adaptation of "Wuthering Heights", directed by Emerald Fennell. Location 'A' comprises Knole Barn and Stable Court, which provided the backdrop for the harrowing opening scene of gallows day in Gimmerton Town Square. Since 2017, the 15th‑century barn with its Kentish flagstone facade has housed the National Trust’s conservation studio. Location 'B' comprises Green Court and Stone Court, separated by Bourchier’s Tower. Here, the camera captures Heathcliff and Isabella approaching the tower’s archway as they arrive for their marriage ceremony. In the scene that follows, it appears that an indoor space at Knole serves as the chapel's interior.

Shown here is an engraving depicting the west prospect of Knole in Sevenoaks, taken from 'Thirty six different views of noblemen and gentlemen's seats in the County of Kent…' by Thomas Badeslade, n.d. [c.1750] (ref. C150603044) Overlaid are two red squares, marked 'A' and 'B', highlighting areas of the estate that appear in the recent adaptation of "Wuthering Heights", directed by Emerald Fennell. Location 'A' comprises Knole Barn and Stable Court, which provided the backdrop for the harrowing opening scene of gallows day in Gimmerton Town Square. Since 2017, the 15th‑century barn with its Kentish flagstone facade has housed the National Trust’s conservation studio. Location 'B' comprises Green Court and Stone Court, separated by Bourchier’s Tower. Here, the camera captures Heathcliff and Isabella approaching the tower’s archway as they arrive for their marriage ceremony. In the scene that follows, it appears that an indoor space at Knole serves as the chapel's interior.

Among the UK’s largest country houses, #Knole in #Sevenoaks provided settings for Fennell's adaptation including the harrowing opening scene of gallows day in Gimmerton Town Square (A) and later, the marriage of Heathcliff and Isabella (B).

☟ See C150603044
🎥 #WutheringHeights

2 months ago 7 1 0 0
Video

Eagle-eyed cinema-goers might have spotted a certain 600-year-old #Kent estate (whose archives are deposited with us) make a cameo in the recently released adaptation of #WutheringHeights, directed by Emerald Fennell.

Any guesses? We'll reveal all in our next post! 🍿👀

2 months ago 3 1 1 0
About the event: Most medieval coin hoards are modest in scale and were hidden, deposited or lost by members of the working rural population, the English peasantry, and by urban workers. Among the hoards covered are notable ones from Seasalter, Ickham, Dover, Meopham, Bredgar, Charing, Maidstone and Deal, running from the reigns of Henry II to Edward VI. These hoards will be considered in their time, place and social world. While it is almost never possible to explain exactly why an individual hoard was deposited, they can all be placed in a context of work and life. Dr Barrie Cook was curator of medieval and early modern coins at the British Museum until Spring 2025. His cataloguing of new coin hoards from England, 1180 onwards, has culminated in two books: ‘English medieval coin hoards: age of the sterling penny, 1180–1351’ published in January 2025; and ‘English medieval coin hoards: from the return to gold to the Great Debasement, 1351–1560’ which is due for release in early 2026.

About the event: Most medieval coin hoards are modest in scale and were hidden, deposited or lost by members of the working rural population, the English peasantry, and by urban workers. Among the hoards covered are notable ones from Seasalter, Ickham, Dover, Meopham, Bredgar, Charing, Maidstone and Deal, running from the reigns of Henry II to Edward VI. These hoards will be considered in their time, place and social world. While it is almost never possible to explain exactly why an individual hoard was deposited, they can all be placed in a context of work and life. Dr Barrie Cook was curator of medieval and early modern coins at the British Museum until Spring 2025. His cataloguing of new coin hoards from England, 1180 onwards, has culminated in two books: ‘English medieval coin hoards: age of the sterling penny, 1180–1351’ published in January 2025; and ‘English medieval coin hoards: from the return to gold to the Great Debasement, 1351–1560’ which is due for release in early 2026.

Only one week left to purchase your tickets for this special talk presented by Dr Barrie Cook – former curator of coins at the #BritishMuseum 🪙

🎟️ £10.00 per ticket
📧 To purchase, email your name & telephone number to archives@kent.gov.uk
ℹ️ More details: bit.ly/CoinHoardsEvent

2 months ago 3 3 0 0
Shown here is a marriage proposal letter received by Frances Humphrey of Seal in 1809 [ref. U1050/C76] The besotted sender writes that Frances may consider him 'an almost perfect stranger', but her charms have not escaped his sight. He reveals his full name – only partially snipped from the page, allowing us to identify him as 'Rich'[ard]. He continues, saying that he has been 'entirely engrossed' by Frances ever since he first set eyes on her at a New Year’s Ball: delaying his marriage proposal only to ascertain whether her 'heart was disengaged'. Richard discloses that his 'living' is 'nearly four hundred pounds a year' – phrasing typical of a clergyman. He also mentions owning a 'comfortable residence' and a farm, although their locations have been snipped, and possessing 'four thousand pounds in the three percent consols'. He hopes Frances' parents will approve, asks her not to leave him in suspense, and boldly concludes by referring to himself as her 'adoring husband'.

Shown here is a marriage proposal letter received by Frances Humphrey of Seal in 1809 [ref. U1050/C76] The besotted sender writes that Frances may consider him 'an almost perfect stranger', but her charms have not escaped his sight. He reveals his full name – only partially snipped from the page, allowing us to identify him as 'Rich'[ard]. He continues, saying that he has been 'entirely engrossed' by Frances ever since he first set eyes on her at a New Year’s Ball: delaying his marriage proposal only to ascertain whether her 'heart was disengaged'. Richard discloses that his 'living' is 'nearly four hundred pounds a year' – phrasing typical of a clergyman. He also mentions owning a 'comfortable residence' and a farm, although their locations have been snipped, and possessing 'four thousand pounds in the three percent consols'. He hopes Frances' parents will approve, asks her not to leave him in suspense, and boldly concludes by referring to himself as her 'adoring husband'.

Whoever took scissors to this marriage proposal received by Frances Humphrey of #Seal in 1809 thought they'd snipped the sender from existence — yet remaining clues suggest he was a besotted clergyman named Richard from #Westerham. Poor chap! 💔

☟ See U1050/C76
#ValentinesDay

2 months ago 17 9 0 0
Advertisement
Blurb: War planes and tanks are useless without fuel and, with war looming, RAF fuel reserves in 1936 were, at best, minimal. However, the secret construction of a massive storage and pipeline system in Britain kept the RAF fully supplied with fuel throughout the Second World War. The network, including the cross-channel PLUTO pipelines, was also vital for the Normandy invasion. The system expanded during the Cold War, including the construction of huge underground salt cavities for strategic fuel storage, and is still used today to supply major airports. This book, uniquely, traces its history.

Blurb: War planes and tanks are useless without fuel and, with war looming, RAF fuel reserves in 1936 were, at best, minimal. However, the secret construction of a massive storage and pipeline system in Britain kept the RAF fully supplied with fuel throughout the Second World War. The network, including the cross-channel PLUTO pipelines, was also vital for the Normandy invasion. The system expanded during the Cold War, including the construction of huge underground salt cavities for strategic fuel storage, and is still used today to supply major airports. This book, uniquely, traces its history.

Newly acquired & available to read in our Search Room:

'Fuelling the wars: PLUTO and the Secret Pipeline Network, 1936–2015' by Tim Whittle, 2017

🔎 To view, request ref. BK/C158026815
📚 For blurb, click ALT ☟
#SecondWorldWar #OperationPLUTO #Kent

2 months ago 6 1 0 0
Shown here is a postcard depicting an exterior view of Jezreel's Tower at Chatham Hill, Gillingham. Postmark dated 9th August 1923 [ref. GIL 85] Jezreel's Tower was an imposing religious structure intended to be the centrepiece of a small but fervent sect called the New and Latter House of Israel, led by James Jezreel (c.1851-1885). Initially a soldier in the British Army, Jezreel was influenced by the prophetic teachings of Joanna Southcott of Taleford, Devon (1750-1814), and established a Medway-based enclave of "Jezreelites" to continue her movement. Despite the sect's ambition, the tower was never completed owing to financial strain and the death of Jezreel in 1885, which left the group without strong leadership. Whilst the structure fell into disrepair, its decaying shell became a notable curiosity of the local landscape. After standing derelict for decades, the tower was demolished in 1961 — bringing an end to one of Kent’s most unusual architectural landmarks.

Shown here is a postcard depicting an exterior view of Jezreel's Tower at Chatham Hill, Gillingham. Postmark dated 9th August 1923 [ref. GIL 85] Jezreel's Tower was an imposing religious structure intended to be the centrepiece of a small but fervent sect called the New and Latter House of Israel, led by James Jezreel (c.1851-1885). Initially a soldier in the British Army, Jezreel was influenced by the prophetic teachings of Joanna Southcott of Taleford, Devon (1750-1814), and established a Medway-based enclave of "Jezreelites" to continue her movement. Despite the sect's ambition, the tower was never completed owing to financial strain and the death of Jezreel in 1885, which left the group without strong leadership. Whilst the structure fell into disrepair, its decaying shell became a notable curiosity of the local landscape. After standing derelict for decades, the tower was demolished in 1961 — bringing an end to one of Kent’s most unusual architectural landmarks.

A lost landmark of Chatham Hill in #Gillingham, Jezreel’s Tower was built in the 1880s to serve as the headquarters of the New and Latter House of Israel. Although never completed and razed in 1961, it remains a notable curiosity in the history of #Medway 🧱

🔎 To learn more, click ALT ☟

2 months ago 9 1 0 0
Shown here is Alice Imperatori consulting a volume in the Search Room at Kent Archives. Alice joined the team as an Archive Services Officer in April 2025 and, in our latest newsletter, reflects on her academic background, previous experience in the archives sector, and her first nine months working with our collections. [Archives@Kent] is the quarterly newsletter published by Kent Archives and Local History Service, Maidstone. From publicising newly catalogued material to exploring documents in detail and sharing information about upcoming events, our newsletters can be delivered straight to your email inbox or accessed at www.kentarchives.org.uk/archive-newsletter Have yet to subscribe? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to add you to our mailing list – Email: archives@kent.gov.uk Telephone: 03000 420 673

Shown here is Alice Imperatori consulting a volume in the Search Room at Kent Archives. Alice joined the team as an Archive Services Officer in April 2025 and, in our latest newsletter, reflects on her academic background, previous experience in the archives sector, and her first nine months working with our collections. [Archives@Kent] is the quarterly newsletter published by Kent Archives and Local History Service, Maidstone. From publicising newly catalogued material to exploring documents in detail and sharing information about upcoming events, our newsletters can be delivered straight to your email inbox or accessed at www.kentarchives.org.uk/archive-newsletter Have yet to subscribe? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to add you to our mailing list – Email: archives@kent.gov.uk Telephone: 03000 420 673

Have yet to read the latest news from Kent Archives?
🗞️ Winter 2025 newsletter:
www.kentarchives.org.uk/archive-newsletter/

In this edition, meet two new members of the team and enjoy articles about our recent engagement activities, Old Scotney Castle, Martello Towers, and the 6th Baron Brabourne.

2 months ago 6 2 0 0
Shown here is an undated [late 19th century] albumen print photograph showing Maidstone Museum from Brenchley Gardens. It was published by Frederick Bunyard, a bookseller and stationer in Maidstone [ref. H/U18/44] A handwritten inscription on the verso of the mount reads: 'Maidstone: The Museum is a curious ancient building upon the site of the Manor house of Chillington and associated with the name of Sir John Lord Cobham as early as 1343. The building itself is a curiosity. The collections are good in ancient remains, geology, specimens of extinct animals, and general natural history. The room set apart for the Library is large and commodious and well stocked with books which though neither old nor rare are good and some of them very valuable. Open to all, admission free. God keep all Dwelling in this place in Meat and Wealth with Truth and Grace Amen. J. C. Inscription in the interior of the Great Hall.'

Shown here is an undated [late 19th century] albumen print photograph showing Maidstone Museum from Brenchley Gardens. It was published by Frederick Bunyard, a bookseller and stationer in Maidstone [ref. H/U18/44] A handwritten inscription on the verso of the mount reads: 'Maidstone: The Museum is a curious ancient building upon the site of the Manor house of Chillington and associated with the name of Sir John Lord Cobham as early as 1343. The building itself is a curiosity. The collections are good in ancient remains, geology, specimens of extinct animals, and general natural history. The room set apart for the Library is large and commodious and well stocked with books which though neither old nor rare are good and some of them very valuable. Open to all, admission free. God keep all Dwelling in this place in Meat and Wealth with Truth and Grace Amen. J. C. Inscription in the interior of the Great Hall.'

Today we’d like to wish Maidstone Museum a very happy 168th birthday!

Just a stone’s throw from Kent Archives, the museum was founded in 1858 and holds a diverse collection of over 600,000 artefacts — from Japanese decorative art and Ancient Egypt to ethnography and local history 🏺📿

☟ See H/U18/44

3 months ago 13 1 0 0
Shown here is a researcher wearing nitrile gloves to correctly handle a 19th century albumen print. The card support affixed to the verso provides no margins, subsequently exposing the edges of the photograph to oils, salts and dirt if handled with bare hands. Unless handling items that are chemically sensitive, metallic, or toxic, the use of gloves is largely performative. Often worn in the 19th and early 20th century by those working in heritage settings and the book trade, gloves traditionally conveyed respect for the items being handled whilst also alluding to their value. Much to the frustration of those working in the contemporary heritage sector, this outdated practice is repeatedly portrayed in the media, subsequently reinforcing the public’s mistaken perception that archives should be handled with gloves. Aside from the few exceptions, we handle documents with clean and dry hands, as gloves reduce manual dexterity and hinder the ability to assess fragility through touch.

Shown here is a researcher wearing nitrile gloves to correctly handle a 19th century albumen print. The card support affixed to the verso provides no margins, subsequently exposing the edges of the photograph to oils, salts and dirt if handled with bare hands. Unless handling items that are chemically sensitive, metallic, or toxic, the use of gloves is largely performative. Often worn in the 19th and early 20th century by those working in heritage settings and the book trade, gloves traditionally conveyed respect for the items being handled whilst also alluding to their value. Much to the frustration of those working in the contemporary heritage sector, this outdated practice is repeatedly portrayed in the media, subsequently reinforcing the public’s mistaken perception that archives should be handled with gloves. Aside from the few exceptions, we handle documents with clean and dry hands, as gloves reduce manual dexterity and hinder the ability to assess fragility through touch.

H is for… #Handling

Wearing gloves whilst handling documents reduces manual dexterity and the ability to assess fragility through touch. Unless items are photographic, metallic or toxic, handling archives with clean and dry hands is generally the best practice.

#KAconservationAtoZ

3 months ago 32 10 1 2
Shown here is a printed Christmas card depicting a traditional festive scene of carol singers calling at a house, n.d. [early 20th century]. Printed on the front are the words ‘Hearty Christmas Wishes’, followed by a short poem inside the card. It reads: 'Joyous greetings speed away Bringing “Merry Christmas Day” Kind thoughts more than words can tell Wishes true to wish you well At this happy time of cheer And all through the coming year.' It’s one of several Christmas and New Year cards that can be found among the papers of Johnann Shiels and Maud Bourne of Folkestone, a collection spanning 1860-1930. To view them, request ref. F1975/14/F7 in our Search Room.

Shown here is a printed Christmas card depicting a traditional festive scene of carol singers calling at a house, n.d. [early 20th century]. Printed on the front are the words ‘Hearty Christmas Wishes’, followed by a short poem inside the card. It reads: 'Joyous greetings speed away Bringing “Merry Christmas Day” Kind thoughts more than words can tell Wishes true to wish you well At this happy time of cheer And all through the coming year.' It’s one of several Christmas and New Year cards that can be found among the papers of Johnann Shiels and Maud Bourne of Folkestone, a collection spanning 1860-1930. To view them, request ref. F1975/14/F7 in our Search Room.

From the team at Kent Archives, we’d like to wish our followers, readers, volunteers and friends across the sector a Merry Christmas and all the very best for 2026!

☟📮 See F1975/14/F7: bit.ly/41LqQT4

#SeasonsGreetings #Christmas2025

3 months ago 10 0 0 0
About the event: Most medieval coin hoards are modest in scale and were hidden, deposited or lost by members of the working rural population, the English peasantry, and by urban workers. Among the hoards covered are notable ones from Seasalter, Ickham, Dover, Meopham, Bredgar, Charing, Maidstone and Deal, running from the reigns of Henry II to Edward VI. These hoards will be considered in their time, place and social world. While it is almost never possible to explain exactly why an individual hoard was deposited, they can all be placed in a context of work and life. Dr Barrie Cook was curator of medieval and early modern coins at the British Museum until Spring 2025. His cataloguing of new coin hoards from England, 1180 onwards, has culminated in two books: ‘English medieval coin hoards: age of the sterling penny, 1180–1351’ published in January 2025; and ‘English medieval coin hoards: from the return to gold to the Great Debasement, 1351–1560’ which is due for release in early 2026.

About the event: Most medieval coin hoards are modest in scale and were hidden, deposited or lost by members of the working rural population, the English peasantry, and by urban workers. Among the hoards covered are notable ones from Seasalter, Ickham, Dover, Meopham, Bredgar, Charing, Maidstone and Deal, running from the reigns of Henry II to Edward VI. These hoards will be considered in their time, place and social world. While it is almost never possible to explain exactly why an individual hoard was deposited, they can all be placed in a context of work and life. Dr Barrie Cook was curator of medieval and early modern coins at the British Museum until Spring 2025. His cataloguing of new coin hoards from England, 1180 onwards, has culminated in two books: ‘English medieval coin hoards: age of the sterling penny, 1180–1351’ published in January 2025; and ‘English medieval coin hoards: from the return to gold to the Great Debasement, 1351–1560’ which is due for release in early 2026.

Join us in #Canterbury on Tuesday 24th February for a special talk presented by Dr Barrie Cook – former curator of coins at the British Museum.

🎟️ £10.00 per ticket
📧 To purchase, email your name and telephone number to archives@kent.gov.uk
ℹ️ More details: bit.ly/CoinHoardsEvent

4 months ago 8 4 0 0

Thank you Sophie! We're glad our collections proved useful to your article 😊

4 months ago 1 0 0 0
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Shown here is a graphic listing Kent Archives' opening hours for December 2025 and January 2026. Key dates to bear in mind include: Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24th December – Closed Christmas Day, Thursday 25th December – Closed Boxing Day, Friday 26th December – Closed New Year's Eve, Wednesday 31st December – Open until 4pm New Year's Day, Thursday 1st January – Closed We look forward to welcoming you to the Search Room this festive season!

Shown here is a graphic listing Kent Archives' opening hours for December 2025 and January 2026. Key dates to bear in mind include: Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24th December – Closed Christmas Day, Thursday 25th December – Closed Boxing Day, Friday 26th December – Closed New Year's Eve, Wednesday 31st December – Open until 4pm New Year's Day, Thursday 1st January – Closed We look forward to welcoming you to the Search Room this festive season!

✨ Our opening hours this festive season ✨

Following our temporary closure, we look forward to re-opening our Search Room to the public on Tuesday 16th December.

Plan to visit us in the next few weeks? To avoid disappointment, please bear in mind the following dates…

4 months ago 3 1 0 0
Shown here is an information pack titled 'HIV/AIDS: How can we help?'. It was compiled by Kent County Council’s Social Services in the mid-to-late 1990s [ref. C/SS/1/13] Produced with the assistance of those living in Kent with HIV and AIDS, the pack provides a glimpse into the challenges and advocacy efforts surrounding the public health crisis in the 1990s. It includes details about transmission; accessing testing and treatment; the county, national and global picture; the help available from Kent’s Social Services; patient confidentiality; and the cost associated with receiving assistance. Inserted at the back are supplementary documents including 'Treatment Issues: A basic guide to medical treatment options for people with HIV and AIDS' published by The Terrence Higgins Trust in April 1996; and several sheets listing essential county-wide contacts as at April 1997, among which include testing and counselling services, helplines, local carer groups, and drug addiction advisers.

Shown here is an information pack titled 'HIV/AIDS: How can we help?'. It was compiled by Kent County Council’s Social Services in the mid-to-late 1990s [ref. C/SS/1/13] Produced with the assistance of those living in Kent with HIV and AIDS, the pack provides a glimpse into the challenges and advocacy efforts surrounding the public health crisis in the 1990s. It includes details about transmission; accessing testing and treatment; the county, national and global picture; the help available from Kent’s Social Services; patient confidentiality; and the cost associated with receiving assistance. Inserted at the back are supplementary documents including 'Treatment Issues: A basic guide to medical treatment options for people with HIV and AIDS' published by The Terrence Higgins Trust in April 1996; and several sheets listing essential county-wide contacts as at April 1997, among which include testing and counselling services, helplines, local carer groups, and drug addiction advisers.

Released by Kent County Council's Social Services in the mid-to-late 1990s, this information pack captures growing empathy towards those battling #HIV and #AIDS, with sections addressing the right of patients to access confidential and prejudice-free care.

☟ See C/SS/1/13
#WorldAIDSDay @nat.org.uk

4 months ago 4 0 0 0
Shown here is a notice issued by Kent Archives, announcing the following: Temporarily closed Kent Archives is conducting essential collections work from Monday 1st - Sunday 14th December. During this time, our Search Room will be closed to the public and we will not be accepting or answering enquiries by email or telephone. Normal service will resume on Monday 15th December – please send your enquiries to us from this date onwards. For further information, email us at archives@kent.gov.uk or call us on 03000 420 673

Shown here is a notice issued by Kent Archives, announcing the following: Temporarily closed Kent Archives is conducting essential collections work from Monday 1st - Sunday 14th December. During this time, our Search Room will be closed to the public and we will not be accepting or answering enquiries by email or telephone. Normal service will resume on Monday 15th December – please send your enquiries to us from this date onwards. For further information, email us at archives@kent.gov.uk or call us on 03000 420 673

NOTICE: Kent Archives is temporarily closed.

Our team is conducting essential collections work from Monday 1st - Sunday 14th December.

During this time, our Search Room and enquiry service will be closed. Normal service will resume on Monday 15th December.

4 months ago 1 2 0 0

So satisfying! ✨

4 months ago 1 0 0 0
Shown here is a photograph of Julia (archives volunteer) chatting to Glyn House (strategic manager – specialist & support services) at Kent Archives' annual Christmas party, held to celebrate our wonderful volunteers. From hosting reading groups to providing customers with IT support and developing resources to aid historical research, the Time2Give scheme offers members of the public the opportunity to volunteer at Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives. For further information and to submit an application, visit: www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/libraries/clubs-and-activities-in-libraries/volunteer-in-libraries-and-archives

Shown here is a photograph of Julia (archives volunteer) chatting to Glyn House (strategic manager – specialist & support services) at Kent Archives' annual Christmas party, held to celebrate our wonderful volunteers. From hosting reading groups to providing customers with IT support and developing resources to aid historical research, the Time2Give scheme offers members of the public the opportunity to volunteer at Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives. For further information and to submit an application, visit: www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/libraries/clubs-and-activities-in-libraries/volunteer-in-libraries-and-archives

Yesterday we celebrated the outstanding contributions made by our volunteers in 2025. A special presentation was made to Julia, who has volunteered at Kent Archives for an impressive 20 years.

Our thanks to Julia, João, Gill, Pabitra, Julie and Anne for all their hard work! ✨

4 months ago 6 2 0 0
Shown here is a promotional graphic for Canterbury History Weekend 2026. The weekend offers a fascinating programme of 20 in-person talks at the University of Kent, bring together leading historians, lively discussion, and fresh insights into the Middle Ages. Attendees can create their own itinerary using a pick-and-mix booking system, selecting from a range of talks covering four main themes: Religion and the Arts, Royalty and Nobility, War and Politics, and Social History. Among this year’s speakers include Helen Castor, Marc Morris, Rachel Koopmans, David Carpenter and Caroline Barron. Tickets are priced at £10.00 per person, per event. Discounts for students and bulk purchasing are available – visit history-weekends.org for more information. The weekend is organised by the Canterbury Association for Medieval and Early Modern Studies (CAMEMS) in collaboration with the Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Studies at the University of Kent.

Shown here is a promotional graphic for Canterbury History Weekend 2026. The weekend offers a fascinating programme of 20 in-person talks at the University of Kent, bring together leading historians, lively discussion, and fresh insights into the Middle Ages. Attendees can create their own itinerary using a pick-and-mix booking system, selecting from a range of talks covering four main themes: Religion and the Arts, Royalty and Nobility, War and Politics, and Social History. Among this year’s speakers include Helen Castor, Marc Morris, Rachel Koopmans, David Carpenter and Caroline Barron. Tickets are priced at £10.00 per person, per event. Discounts for students and bulk purchasing are available – visit history-weekends.org for more information. The weekend is organised by the Canterbury Association for Medieval and Early Modern Studies (CAMEMS) in collaboration with the Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Studies at the University of Kent.

Now booking: Canterbury Medieval Weekend
Friday 1st - Sunday 3rd May 2026

Join leading historians and writers as they uncover the ideas, people and events that shaped the Middle Ages.

📍 University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NU
ℹ️ For details and tickets: history-weekends.org

5 months ago 9 7 0 1

Thank you! 😊

5 months ago 1 0 0 0
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Blurb: 'Tilt Boats and Hatch Boats of Gravesend and the London River, 1555–1865' tells the story of two significant vessels that worked the River Thames and served the City of London. In the foreword the Lord Mayor of London, Professor Michael Mainelli, illustrates the manorial relationship over 835 years with the Thames and the craft that sailed upon it. His reference to Winston Churchill's description of the Thames as a 'silver thread' is especially relevant to the narrative. The author, David Patient, is a retired shipwright. He has spent most of his working life restoring craft that sailed the Thames Estuary and has taken a keen interest in maritime history.

Blurb: 'Tilt Boats and Hatch Boats of Gravesend and the London River, 1555–1865' tells the story of two significant vessels that worked the River Thames and served the City of London. In the foreword the Lord Mayor of London, Professor Michael Mainelli, illustrates the manorial relationship over 835 years with the Thames and the craft that sailed upon it. His reference to Winston Churchill's description of the Thames as a 'silver thread' is especially relevant to the narrative. The author, David Patient, is a retired shipwright. He has spent most of his working life restoring craft that sailed the Thames Estuary and has taken a keen interest in maritime history.

Newly acquired & available to read in our Search Room:

'Tilt Boats and Hatch Boats of Gravesend and the London River, 1555–1865' by David Patient, 2024

🔎 To view, request ref. BK/C335180096
📚 For blurb, click ALT ☟
#MaritimeHistory #RiverThames #Gravesend #Kent

5 months ago 12 2 1 0