Echoes in Dover History: Stories and Legacies

Welcome to Dover History, compiled by Joyce and Brian Banks, which provides a captivating journey through the rich heritage and stories of Dover. Our website offers a deep dive into the iconic landmarks, fascinating tales, and historical moments shaping this remarkable port town. Whether exploring for education, curiosity, or inspiration, you’ll discover a treasure trove of content designed to bring history to life. Join us as we uncover the layers of Dover’s past and celebrate its enduring legacy.

Caught in the Act: Dover’s Historical Escapades & Shenanigans

Suspicious Possession

John Griffiths a young man of vagrant appearance was charged with having in his possession a large plaid shawl without being able to give a satisfactory account of the same.  It appeared that the prisoner came to the police station…

Excise Information – Heavy Penalty

Robert Head the landlord of the Burlington Inn was charged with an infringement of the Customs Act by selling Cavendish tobacco that had neither been warehoused by the customs nor provided by the customs with the necessary customs wrapper. Mr…

Drunk in Charge.

At Dover Police Court on Wednesday Richard Beecham was charged with being drunk while in charge of a pony and cart in Bridge Street. P.C. Cadman gave evidence to the effect that about 9.35 the previous evening he was in…

Un-Lady Like Conduct

Mary Skinning a young lady in a hat and feathers and a cloud was summoned for assaulting Mary Ann Scott. The complainant said she lived in Oxenden Street. On Friday afternoon she went into the Pimlico Tavern to refresh herself…

Drunk and Disorderly

Benjamin Goodson was charged with being drunk and disorderly and using obscene language in Biggin Street. The Magistrates fined him 2s 6d and 6s costs of in default seven days imprisonment. He went to gaol. 1870.

Interrupting A Performance

Leonard George a young man of good address who bowed politely to the magistrates on being placed in the dock was charged with being drunk and disorderly at the Apollonian Hall and interrupting the performance of the Christy Minstrels on…

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Flames of History: The Fires of Dover Chronicles

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Grit and Gales: The Hardships of Dover’s History

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Pathways of the Past: Exploring the Streets of Dover:

The Formation of Castle Street.

In April 1827 there appeared in the then Dover newspaper The Cinque Ports Herald. An advertisement which announced to builders and others that fourteen acres of very eligible building land would be let on lease the said land being known…

Biggin Street and Biggin Gate

The ancient history of Biggin Street is mainly associated with the Maison Dieu at the one end, and Biggin Gate at the other, both built about the same period – in the early part of the 13th century,. Incidental references…

Historic Pubs of Dover: A Journey Through Time

Dive into the rich history of Dover’s pubs with this detailed exploration of the town’s historic taverns and inns. From the 16th century Adam and Eve to the uniquely named establishments like the Admiral Harvey and the Alhambra Music Hall,…

A Ballard of Dover Streets.

A Good Old Custom O YEZ! O YEZ! Good people all pray listen to my tale,‘Tis of a good custom which in Dover does prevail.When Christmas comes to brighten up the closing year,This custom is to make a show of…

Rambling around Dover

Dover to Hougham

Embark on a picturesque journey from Dover to Hougham, traversing the scenic landscapes that have captivated travellers for centuries. This path, rich in natural beauty and historical significance, leads from the bustling port of Dover to the tranquil village of…

ALONG THE CLIFF WESTWARD.

Journey ‘Along the Cliff Westward’ and witness the breathtaking landscapes where nature and history converge along Dover’s coastline. This narrative takes you over the cliffs of Shakespeare and Roundown, offering majestic views that blend the awe of natural formations with…

Dover’s Diverse Chronicles: A Tapestry of Tales:

The Murder of George Roberts.

July 1941. The temple of dreams, that’s what they called all those Odeon’s, Ritz’s Regal’s, Palladiums and Queens. Such grand places, luxurious, where you could be whisked away to realms of fancy worlds of magic. At least that was how…

Vestry Minutes from St. Mary the Virgin, Dover, Kent.

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…

King’s for A Penny Drink

Chapter One: Granny’s Attic. It’s wartime and Dover has been nicknamed “Hellfire Corner” on account of its front line position. Even so some things don’t change like the raucous calling of the seagulls and the robust sound of a honky-tonk…