Kentish Express Ashford & District
Town’s rich history to be showcased at archive exhibition
Visitors set to take a trip down memory lane
The rich and varied history of Tenterden is the subject of a joint exhibition showcasing items usually “kept under lock and key”.
The town hall and museum have collaborated on the Tenterden Archive Exhibition that brings together key exhibits, telling the story of the earliest origins of the town to the present day.
Among items on display at the town hall are Tenterden’s large silver gilt mace dating from 1549 and its 1660 replacement that was issued at the restoration of Charles II, while mayoral regalia including the chain of office, robes, wigs, badges and rosettes will also feature.
The history of Homewood School will be brought to life with books of past pageants and exhibits, while royal memories will include records of the Queen Mother’s visit to Tenterden and photos of Princess Diana, who opened the town’s leisure centre in 1990.
Bygone Tenterden is reflected in a large display of photographs across six boards, which will show images of the town from 1861 up until the present day.
Other topics covered include the town’s cinque ports history; its role in wartime evacuation and Tenterden’s hop-picking past.
Hundreds of hours’ work have been put into the exhibition and Tenterden town councillor Sue Ferguson has been curating town hall exhibits.
She said: “
“There’s a fantastic display of Tenterden photographs including one of the cattle market dated 1861. It’s a unique opportunity to see more than 150 photos of the town.”
Cllr Ferguson thanked Tenterden historian Jack Gillett for all his work on the project.
■ Tenterden Archive Exhibition takes place from tomorrow (Friday)until Sunday. The town hall opening hours are 11am to 4pm on Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is to the town hall costs £1, but includes a programme and a raffle ticket. Tenterden Museum is open from 11am to 4.30pm throughout and the usual £2 admission charge applies.