PROJECT TO RE-OPEN RAMSGATE'S TUNNELS

You may have read a recent article in the local press regarding the re-opening of the Ramsgate Tunnels. If you didn’t see it, you can read it online at HERE

The history of the tunnels is well recorded, but what's not recorded in any detail are the memories of residents who used them. What were the emotions when the siren was sounded? What was life like underground while the town was being destroyed above? I remember the air raid sirens being tested in the 1950’s and my mother was rushing around to find the local paper to check this was a scheduled test and not an air raid! It must have left an impression.

Part of the current tunnel project is to record a “spoken word” history to accompany written records. Do you know anyone in the 80+ age group who used the tunnels? You’ll be surprised what Mum, Dad, Gran and Granddad can tell you when prompted. My mother has always told me she never used the tunnels. Now, as a result of this project she has told me she went down them twice, and even remembers details of the occasions.

If you can help we would like you to contact us and discuss how we can best record the memories. You can email: phil@ramsgatehistory.com, or telephone 01843 599153.

Invicta MCC Re-Union

It's hoped to have a small re-union of a few former Invicta MCC members during the week commencing 17/01/2011. If you're a former member or know anyone who is, please have a look at http://invictamembers.blogspot.com/ or contact phil@ramsgatehistory.com

Why is it called Seamark Road?

Have you ever wondered why Seamark Road at Monkton (where Thanet Earth is) was so named?

Here's a clue ...

Click HERE to find out more

Sir William Curtis - aka "Billy Biscuit"

William Curtis was born in 1752 in Wapping, East London. He was the son of sea biscuit manufacturer Joseph Curtis and Mary Tennant. William was elected as a Member of Parliament for the City of London in 1790 and held the seat continuously for 28 years. He became Lord Mayor of London in 1795-96 and was created a Baronet in 1802. The definition of the three R's as "reading, 'riting and rithmetic" is attributed to him and was taken from a speech made at a dinner given for the Board of Education. Sir William was a colourful character who resided at Cliff House, Ramsgate until his death in 1829.

Read more about Sir William, also known as "Billy Biscuit", by clicking HERE

Happy New Year Everyone

RamsgateHistory.com wishes everyone a very happy, healthy and safe 2011