Kent Archives

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A nationally accredited archive repository for Kent, established in 1933 and based in Maidstone. Get involved and keep up-to-date with the latest news and events from our service. This account is monitored from Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5pm.

Shown here are entries from a nominal register recording male and female admissions to Maidstone Prison [ref. PR/Md/3/2/2] Among those offending on the 21st July 1884: - Ellen, a 16 year old fieldworker. In Chatham, she committed the offence of being drunk and was sentenced to 5 days of hard labour or pay 9/-. - John, a 52 year old gardener. In Malling, he committed the offence of stealing potatoes and was sentenced to 14 days of hard labour or pay 18/6. - John, a 28 year old soldier. In Sheerness, he committed the offence of murder and was 'detained during Her Majesty's pleasure'. A note states that he was later 'removed to Broadmoor'. - David, a 30 year old labourer. In Tunbridge Wells, he committed the offences of vagrancy/neglecting his family and was sentenced to 1 month of hard labour. - William, a 57 year old labourer. In Tunbridge Wells, he committed the offence of being drunk and disorderly and was sentenced to 10 days of hard labour.
Shown here is an albumen photograph capturing young and senior members of Maidstone Swimming Club. It lists the club's captain as F. Griffin and the sub-captain as A. Hastie. Created by the London Photographic Co. (Maidstone and Sittingbourne), 1893 [ref. U3360/P2/2] [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 a scrapbook of ephemera pertaining to the Maidstone Ladies’ Speakers’ Club, 1983–1990 [ref. Ch146/M2/1] It was necessary to remount much of the scrapbook's contents owing to the compiler's use of Blu Tack – a temporary adhesive putty which can fuse to documents and leave an oily residue if left in situ. We carefully removed this using a spatula, scalpel and tweezers. Whilst we used polyester corners to secure the photographs, we opted for a type of Japanese tissue called Tengu to remount the paper ephemera. Made from kozo (bark fibre from paper mulberry) and weighing only 5 gsm, Tengu can be purchased as a 15 mm tape conveniently pre-coated in a water activated starch adhesive. Tearing as opposed to cutting Japanese tissue creates a feathered edge that blends with a document's fibres for a discreet repair. Japanese tissue is also used for mending tears, reinforcing weaknesses, infilling losses, backing fragile documents, hinging loose material and mounting for display.
Shown here is Justin Croft (antiquarian book dealer) giving a presentation at the Cinque Ports Conference 2026. Attendees are seated in the medieval Stone Hall at Dover's Maison Dieu. Saturday 27th June 2026
Dr Michelle Crowther presents her lunchtime talk at Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone. About the talk: Susie Colyer Nethersole (1869-1956) was the author of eight novels set in East Kent and was one of the first authors signed by Mills and Boon in 1908. This talk will explore her works and consider the ways in which she wrote about the Kentish landscape. Although born into a farming family, Nethersole admitted that she had 'never actually gone out with the hoe herself’; however, her attention to detail is finely observed, with the colours of the fields, the flowers, the seasons and the weather creating a rich tableau which her characters inhabit. Nevertheless, her stories are not chocolate-boxy, but grittily realistic. Rural life is tough, and characters struggle as well as thrive, as modernity threatens their traditions. For Nethersole this was her world, albeit often as an observer, but that world could also be grey and monotonous, and it is her 'warts and all' portrayal of Kent's rural past that marks her out as more than just a writer of romance fiction.
Shown here are ladies from the Boughton Monchelsea group of the Trefoil Guild, exploring one of our Strong Rooms during a behind-the-scenes tour at Kent Archives, Maidstone. Wednesday 20th May 2026
Shown here is a tinted postcard depicting a view of the Parish Hall at Barham. Published by J. G. Charlton, Photographer, Canterbury. Postmark dated 1909 [ref. KHLC-IMG/PO/1/BAM/UNCAT/1] About the talk: Susie Colyer Nethersole (1869-1956) was the author of eight novels set in East Kent and was one of the first authors signed by Mills and Boon in 1908. This talk will explore her works and consider the ways in which she wrote about the Kentish landscape. Although born into a farming family, Nethersole admitted that she had 'never actually gone out with the hoe herself’; however, her attention to detail is finely observed, with the colours of the fields, the flowers, the seasons and the weather creating a rich tableau which her characters inhabit. As one reviewer wrote: ‘here are people who are, bone and flesh, farming folk, in a countryside that is as freshly English as they are’. Nevertheless, her stories are not chocolate-boxy, but grittily realistic. Rural life is tough, and characters struggle as well as thrive, as modernity threatens their traditions. For Nethersole this was her world, albeit often as an observer, but that world could also be grey and monotonous, and it is her 'warts and all' portrayal of Kent's rural past that marks her out as more than just a writer of romance fiction. Dr Michelle Crowther is an Academic Librarian at Canterbury Christ Church University and a co-lead of the Kent Maps Online project. Her doctoral thesis explores the works of the Persistent Scribblers Society, a Canterbury-based manuscript magazine society from the 1870s. Her research interests include Victorian and Edwardian literature, manuscript magazines, biography, rural writers, and nineteenth century Canterbury.
Shown here is an exterior view of Wye Heritage Centre. Saturday 20th June 2026
Sue Lamberton wears medieval attire to present her lunchtime talk at Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone. About the talk: What comes to mind first, at first glance of an ancient document or book? That it’s an incredible survivor? That the handwriting is tiny, beautiful, or in an unfamiliar language? That it may be embellished with illuminated letters with gorgeous colours of deep pigments and burnished gold? That there’s a surviving seal or even multiple seals? For the textile lover however, focus on these wonderful things can fade when encountering the tantalising addition of an original ribbon, braid or embroidered seal bag and the thoughts of how, where, and by whom it was made. Sue Lamberton is an independent scholar with a particular interest in the silkwomen of London, who demonstrates, teaches and makes silk textiles for museums and historic sites, the performing arts industry and living history.
Shown here is a photograph of the Search Room at Kent Archives. We're based at Kent History and Library Centre on James Whatman Way, Maidstone. Our Search Room is equipped with climate controls designed to preserve our collections whilst they are being accessed by the public, with the added bonus of keeping the space pleasantly cool during the summer months. We’re open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Documents can be ordered until 4pm, and we kindly ask that anything being viewed is returned to the Search Room Supervisor no later than 4:45pm, ensuring our team has enough time to return items to the strong rooms before closing. We advise booking a desk to avoid disappointment. However, we are happy to accommodate non‑booked readers if space allows. To book your visit, contact us at archives@kent.gov.uk — we’ll be happy to check our desk availability and guide you through the process of being authorised to access our collections.
Shown here is a pendant seal with silk cords from an inspeximus of original royal letters patent dated at Westminster, 24th October, 1 Henry [V, 1413], 1423-1424 [ref. Ly/5/1/5] About the talk: What comes to mind first, at first glance of an ancient document or book? That it’s an incredible survivor? That the handwriting is tiny, beautiful, or in an unfamiliar language? That it may be embellished with illuminated letters with gorgeous colours of deep pigments and burnished gold? That there’s a surviving seal or even multiple seals? For the textile lover however, focus on these wonderful things can fade when encountering the tantalising addition of an original ribbon, braid or embroidered seal bag and the thoughts of how, where, and by whom it was made. Sue Lamberton is an independent scholar with a particular interest in the silkwomen of London, who demonstrates, teaches and makes silk textiles for museums and historic sites, the performing arts industry and living history.
Shown here is a photograph of the right-hand display cabinet outside the Search Room at Kent Archives and Local History Service, Maidstone. It currently contains a display curated to celebrate the National Year of Reading, including original manuscripts by Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, Jane Austen and Christopher Marlowe. To decorate the cabinet, we’ve added miniature bunting inspired by the blue plaques affixed to buildings that indicate a notable person’s connection to a place. Our plaques shine a spotlight on literary figures and their links to locations across Kent.
Shown here is a photograph of the left-hand display cabinet outside the Search Room at Kent Archives and Local History Service, Maidstone. It currently contains a display curated to celebrate the National Year of Reading, including original manuscripts by John Donne, Robert Burns, Agatha Christie and Siegfried Sassoon. To decorate the cabinet, we’ve added miniature bunting inspired by the blue plaques affixed to buildings that indicate a notable person’s connection to a place. Our plaques shine a spotlight on literary figures and their links to locations across Kent.
Dr David Smith presents his lunchtime talk at Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone. About the talk: Kent has the UK’s biggest Gypsy/Traveller population and was at the forefront of efforts to address the accommodation crisis facing these communities in the post-war period. This talk will examine the impact and implementation of the 1960 and 1968 (Pt. II) Caravan Acts in Kent, focusing especially on Maidstone, and will use local authority and press sources to consider the factors determining who, where and how itinerants were accommodated and their enduring impacts at the local level. Dr David Smith is a Reader in Social Policy. His research aims to document the experience of minority and underprivileged communities including Roma, Gypsies and Travellers, foreign workers in the NHS, and working class localities affected by public policy and housing development.
Shown here is a sepia photographic negative capturing a scene of caravans and trucks parked at Steeds Lane, Kingsnorth, 13th May 1966 [collection ref. KHLC-2018/56]. Photograph copyright KM Media Group Ltd. About the talk: Kent has the UK’s biggest Gypsy/Traveller population and was at the forefront of efforts to address the accommodation crisis facing these communities in the post-war period. This talk will examine the impact and implementation of the 1960 and 1968 (Pt. II) Caravan Acts in Kent, focusing especially on Maidstone, and will use local authority and press sources to consider the factors determining who, where and how itinerants were accommodated and their enduring impacts at the local level. Dr David Smith is a Reader in Social Policy. His research aims to document the experience of minority and underprivileged communities including Roma, Gypsies and Travellers, foreign workers in the NHS, and working class localities affected by public policy and housing development.
Shown here is a photograph of Sir Hugh Garrard Tyrwhitt Drake (1881-1964) flanked by two well-groomed horses. It's taken from the cover of his 1936 book, 'Beasts and circuses: being a few experiences during many years of wild animal keeping and intimate connection with circuses and shows' [ref. BK/C150608018] Discover more about Tyrwhitt‑Drake’s life and long association with Maidstone in Gareth Brown’s latest newsletter article – part of his 'Tales from the Vehicle Licensing Registers' series. [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 a photograph of (from left) Mike, Lindsay, Victoria, Caitlin and James from the Kent Libraries and Archives teams, collecting litter along the towpath leading to the Archbishop's Palace, Maidstone.
Shown here are display boards presenting a selection of original photographs from the Sittingbourne Paper Mill collection [fonds ref. U3843] held by Kent Archives and Local History Service, Maidstone.
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
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.
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 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 graphic displaying Kent Archives' opening hours for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 2026.
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.
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 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
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).
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).
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
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.
Shown here is a notice issued by Kent Archives, announcing the following: Notice of temporary closure Kent Archives will be 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 close-up photograph capturing red poppies blooming in a field.
Dr Catherine Budd presents her lunchtime talk at Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone. About the talk: Through an examination of local newspapers and archival documents held at Kent Archives, this talk will explore the sports of rowing, cycling and swimming, and the development of clubs across urban Kent. The talk considers the debates around amateurs, professionals and money, as well as issues of competition, class, the participation of women, health, commercialisation, modernity, and civic pride. The development of the three sports will be placed within the wider context of socio-economic change and will demonstrate the proliferation of a wide variety of clubs and the popularity of sport for both participants and spectators. Dr Catherine Budd is an Archive Services Officer at Kent Archives. She holds a PhD in the history of sport and previously worked as a lecturer, teaching modern British and European history.
Shown here is a programme regarding a fireworks display in Ramsgate for Sir Moses Montefiore by C. T. Brock & Co. of the Crystal Palace, 8th November 1883 [ref. U4364/Z3] Established in 1698, Brocks was a pioneer of the British pyrotechnics industry and remains the nation's oldest fireworks manufacturer. Founded in Islington, the company later operated from South Norwood, capitalising on its proximity to the ill-fated Crystal Palace by staging frequent fireworks displays there until the iron-and-glass structure was razed by fire in 1936. This printed programme relates to an event held for Sir Moses Montefiore, a renowned Jewish philanthropist and financier who celebrated his 99th birthday in 1883. Ramsgate was a fitting location as Montefiore resided nearby at East Cliff Lodge. A major civic occasion, the schedule featured a procession at 12:30pm, followed by a fireworks display — including a 'huge fire portrait' of Montefiore, a Brocks invention — and a 'monster bonfire' at 6:30pm.
Shown here is a photograph capturing members of Maidstone Swimming Club wearing swimming uniform and medals, n.d. [c.1886] [ref. U3360/P2/1] About the talk: Through an examination of local newspapers and archival documents held at Kent Archives, this talk will explore the sports of rowing, cycling and swimming, and the development of clubs across urban Kent. The talk considers the debates around amateurs, professionals and money, as well as issues of competition, class, the participation of women, health, commercialisation, modernity, and civic pride. The development of the three sports will be placed within the wider context of socio-economic change and will demonstrate the proliferation of a wide variety of clubs and the popularity of sport for both participants and spectators. Dr Catherine Budd is an Archive Services Officer at Kent Archives. She holds a PhD in the history of sport and previously worked as a lecturer, teaching modern British and European history.
Shown here is an early 20th century postcard depicting Lewis & Evenden, drapers and grocers (left) and The Black Horse Pub (right) in Pluckley, Kent [ref. KHLC-IMG/PO/1/PLU/4] Located five miles to the west of Ashford and once home to the aristocratic Dering family, Pluckley found its place in the 1989 Guinness Book of World Records owing to numerous reports of supernatural occurrences. Between 12 and 16 spectres allegedly haunt the village, including an impaled highwayman at Fright Corner; a phantom horse-drawn coach at Maltman's Hill (often heard but not seen); a burnt gypsy lady at Pinnock Bridge; the hanging body of a suicidal schoolmaster; the ghost of Lady Dering in the graveyard of St Nicholas’ Church; and a young Victorian boy at the Black Horse Pub. At the latter, it's claimed that tableware and articles of clothing have been seen moving of their own accord – occasionally disappearing, only to return at a later date. So much for having a quiet drink down at the local!
Shown here are Gareth, Lara and Alice from the team at Kent Archives. Dressed in rain coats, with bin bags and pincers in hand, they're litter picking along the towpath beside the River Medway in Maidstone.
Shown here is a photograph capturing industrial-scale paper making. It's one of several photographs we hold in our Sittingbourne Paper Mill Collection. Did you work at Sittingbourne Paper Mill, or know someone who did? Kent Archives needs your help! From naming members of staff to recognising different types of machinery, join us on Friday 24th October at Sittingbourne Library and impart your knowledge to our team. Your invaluable contributions will help us improve our catalogue descriptions for the Sittingbourne Paper Mill Collection, making the records more accessible to the public. For further details and queries – Email: archives@kent.gov.uk Telephone: 03000 420 673
Shown here are early documents relating to the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway, including: · A hand drawn plan [Q/RUm/74A] and corresponding book of reference [Q/RUm/74B] concerning the line's proposed route, 1824 · The Act of Parliament which approved the line's construction, 1825 [Q/RUo/5a/8] Designed by pioneering railway engineer George Stephenson (1781–1848), the "Crab and Winkle Line", as it came to be known, was a modest six miles in length and opened on the 3rd May 1830. In 1834, it became the first railway in the world to sell season tickets, allowing passengers from Canterbury to visit Whitstable throughout the summer season. The following year, Isambard Kingdom Brunel paid a visit to inspect the line and conduct experiments amidst debate about his proposed Great Western Railway. In addition to its use of steam locomotion, the line was notable for its innovative traction system which hauled trains up steep gradients using cables controlled by stationary steam engines.
Pam Mills presents her lunchtime talk at County Hall, Maidstone. About the talk: 2024 was the 80th anniversary of the first recruitment of policewomen in Kent, the Second World War having opened the doors to female officers. Did war accelerate change? How did women carve out a path of respectability within a male dominated organisation? Pam Mills will examine these questions and other issues, such as the reluctance of Chief Constables to recruit women into the force and how after the war, change was inevitable. Pam is a former police officer and has written several books about the history of policing. The most recent of these is 'Commanding Kent County Constabulary 1857–1957' and her next book – currently with the publishers – is titled 'Reflections of 80 years: telling the story of Policewomen in Kent'. Pam will bring a collection box for donations to the charity 'Care of Police Survivors', which supports the families of police officers and staff who have lost their lives on duty.
About the event: Bestselling novelist Gill Hornby has vividly recreated Jane Austen’s world in books including 'Godmersham Park' and 'The Elopement'. Her acclaimed novel 'Miss Austen' was recently adapted into a BBC series starring Keeley Hawes. In this event, Gill will discuss her novels and the research behind them, reflecting on how records held by Kent Archives relating to the Knight and Austen families have informed her writing. Perfect for readers who love all-things Austen and historical fiction, and for writers interested in how primary sources can be transformed into compelling stories. Biography: Gill Hornby is the author of 'The Hive' and 'All Together Now', as well as 'The Story of Jane Austen', a biography of Austen for younger readers. Her subsequent novels, 'Miss Austen' and 'Godmersham Park' were Sunday Times bestsellers, and 'Miss Austen' is a four-part BBC adaptation starring Keely Hawes as Cassandra Austen. She is also the President of the Jane Austen Society.
Shown here is part of a black and white photograph capturing male students using the 'spider's web' ropes in the gymnasium at Nonington College of Physical Education, 1970s [ref. U4164/P3/3/3] [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 part of a Lettre de Bourgeoisie – a formal document once issued in certain European regions to grant non-native individuals specific rights and privileges. This example, with blue and gold marginal decoration, was received by Philip Stanhope (2nd Earl) and his son, Charles Stanhope (3rd Earl) from the Republic of Geneva in 1771 [ref. U1590/C709/2] Given the prestige of receiving such rights in a foreign region and the social status of the recipients, this manuscript exemplifies the type of historical document that might feature gilt decoration. Gold embellishments can be achieved in several ways. Methods include applying fine gold leaf over a thin layer of adhesive (flat gilding); affixing gold leaf to a substrate textured with gesso (raised gilding); mixing gold powder with gum arabic to create a gold paint (shell gold); and in bookbinding, impressing heated tools into leather through gold leaf to achieve lettering and ornate decoration (gold tooling).
Shown here is a mid-20th century photograph of two policewomen from Kent County Constabulary. Image courtesy of the Kent Police Museum. About the talk: 2024 was the 80th anniversary of the first recruitment of policewomen in Kent, the Second World War having opened the doors to female officers. Did war accelerate change? How did women carve out a path of respectability within a male dominated organisation? Pam Mills will examine these questions and other issues, such as the reluctance of Chief Constables to recruit women into the force and how after the war, change was inevitable. Pam is a former police officer and has written several books about the history of policing. The most recent of these is 'Commanding Kent County Constabulary 1857–1957' and her next book – currently with the publishers – is titled 'Reflections of 80 years: telling the story of Policewomen in Kent'. Pam will bring a collection box for donations to the charity 'Care of Police Survivors' (COPS), which supports the families of police officers and staff who have lost their lives on duty.