The History Society’s fifth ‘Big History Day’ took place on Saturday September 7th and focused on some of the histories that have helped to shape the identity of our village.
Exhibits and talks covered a timeline of Shepherdswell’s history from the earliest known habitation in the area, through the medieval and early modern periods, to the big changes brought about by the coming of the railway and mining, right up to the present day.
In addition there were displays on the village school and another on some of the prominent personalities who lived in Shepherdswell 100 years ago.
We were especially pleased to include special displays on the history of Scouts and Brownies in the village. Both groups are celebrating their 100th anniversary.
As always, we were pleased to welcome our friends from the Elvington and Eythorne Heritage Group, who continue to do tremendous work in preserving the history of the Kent Coal Field.
There were three short talks:
- ‘Defences of Shepherdswell during the Second World War’, presented by Brian Flood
- ‘The Tithe War at West Court Farm’, presented by John Bulaitis.
- ‘The History of Long Lane’, presented by Keith Roberts.
Wall of Remembrance Inauguration Ceremony
At 2.00pm, we inaugurated the new ‘commemorative wall’ made up of the names of Shepherdswell residents who served in the First World War. The inauguration was carried out by Mr Gary Gunner, Chairman of the Dover Branch of The Royal British Legion. The wall displays all the Blue Plaques that had been sited around the village during the summer months.
(Click on images below for larger view)
