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More than 40 people (9 non-Member guests) joined us for a fascinating preview of Colin’s latest project that sets out to document the evolution of Sheerness with Milton. As Colin was quick to point out that his presentation was still a ‘work in progress’ as it focused on Milton, with a second chapter yet to be completed.
A second presentation gave us a tour of the now largely expunged Sheerness HM Dock Yard.
The Milton photo-animation was built on a foundation of over 6,500 images of various kinds. He opened with a view of the High Street as seen in 1912 followed by a saunter through street scenes of St Pauls, Back House (1901), Middletune House and Crown Street, Beechwood Avenue, and so on. Many streets and landmarks remained familiar to those in the audience, while others have long ago been replaced such as Paradise Chapel that was burnt down in 1992. Nevertheless, the photo-animation provided an engaging record that sprung from early 20th Century Milton. Of particular historic interest was Milton Church, established in AD597 and so one of the oldest church sites - the original building was destroyed in 1052 along with most of Milton and it wasn’t until 1330 that the church we recognise today was completed.
Colin’s presentation also took us through some of the industrial landscape associated with the barges, creeks, dockyards, landings, and brickworks. The local brickworks (Smeed) led to the creation of a highly successful cement works until the general decline in bricks and cement more recently.
Colin moved on to show his photo-animation and take questions regarding “The Yard” (as Sheerness HM Dock Yard was known locally). This historic edifice survived from 1665 until 1960 when a closing ceremony saw an end to that traditional industrial and military association.
We were shown many line drawing and other artists records that showed the plan (1665) to fortify the dockyard against Dutch invasion forces - the fortification was completed by 1669.
Images from 1740 show hulks were used here to house the workers in what would have been barely tolerable conditions - remember that for many years decommissioned ships were, at times, demasted (mast timbers could be used again) and relegated to become Prison Hulks. This period of development of “The Yard” was completed in 1779. Further developments (1808-1823) were made under the direction of Sir John Rennie. [Note: It appears that a model of that Yard is stored at Gosport Museum, Hampshire!].
Colin used a selection of aerial shots to give a strong sense of just how extensive this dockyard once was. All that remains from that period today are a few houses that existed outside the walls of “The Yard”.
This was a fascinating pair of presentations and those who attended were left wondering what “Chapter 2” of the Milton Regis story will show.....?
Report by Nigel Heriz-Smith
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