We pride ourselves on offering a distinct perspective on Dover’s history, a tapestry woven from a unique collection of records meticulously gathered by Joyce and Brian Banks. Our website goes beyond mere dates and facts; it delves into the narrative heart of history, bringing the past to life through vivid storytelling and auditory experiences. Share…
In the vibrant heart of Morocco, where the air buzzed with life and colours seemed to dance, Ethan, along with his Mum Eloise and Dad Adam, found themselves immersed in the charm of the bustling markets. The lanes were alive with vendors showcasing their wares, from beautiful textiles and sparkling jewels to aromatic spices that…
The “Vestry Minutes from St. Mary the Virgin, Dover, Kent” page provides a fascinating glimpse into the historical parish records of St. Mary the Virgin in Dover. These minutes, spanning various dates from the 18th century, reveal the parish’s intricate social and administrative activities. Topics range from the management of the poor and lunatics, such…
In the early 1800s, the ledger of St. Mary’s Workhouse in Dover chronicled the sombre reality of its inhabitants. This meticulous record paints a vivid picture of life and death within workhouse walls, listing names, ages, causes of death, and the meagre funds allocated for burials. From individuals ‘worn out’ by years of labour to…
“St. Mary the Virgin’s Settlement Case Book of 1802 provides a fascinating insight into the legal and social intricacies of early 19th-century Dover. The cases, ranging from parish disputes to individual plights, reflect the complexity of life in Dover at the time. This ledger records detailed accounts of people navigating the challenges of poverty, legal…
“St. Mary’s Workhouse Day Book of 1829 offers a rare glimpse into the daily workings of a Dover workhouse, revealing the ebb and flow of life within its walls. This ledger meticulously records the arrivals and departures, deaths, and daily expenses, painting a vivid picture of the era’s social dynamics. The entries, ranging from the…
In the meadow, I once pranced, a feline quite enhanced, With catnip in my whiskers, life was a merry dance. I’d leap and twirl with such delight, In the moon’s soft, forgiving light. But oh, woe is me, without my nip I’m blue, Like a fish out of water, or a shoe missing its shoe.…
“In the early hours, Dover was awakened by a dreadful blaze at the Lord Nelson lodging house near Flying Horse Lane. The poorest of town found themselves engulfed in flames, the community rallying in desperate efforts to quench the inferno and save lives amidst chaos.” A fire broke out shortly before one o’clock in the…
Terrible Sunday Morning Disaster. 155 Drowned. Inquest on 58 Bodies at Dover. On Sunday morning at 10.30 the inhabitants of Dover heard a loud report, like that of a heavy gun. Those who were in view of the sea saw a large P&O liner just to the west of Dover and a column of water…
Who was Keith Gillman? What sort of man was he? How exactly did he meet his death that day of August 25, 1940? And how was it that his picture was used so widely in wartime newspapers and magazines? These were the sort of questions from readers promoted by my decision to use George Campbell’s…