The New Kent History and Library Centre was officially opened on Tuesday 11th December 2012. Historical National Grid (Gas) Photographs.

The New Kent History and Library Centre was officially opened on Tuesday 11th December 2012 by His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent KG.

 

The official opening marks the final commissioning and acceptance by the National Archives as an approved archive.

 

The Duke was given a tour of the facilities which include research rooms, exhibition area and restoration workshops. NWKFHS was represented by the Society's President David Cufley who was one of three Kent history societies representatives, along with a representative of the TNA, presented to the Duke as he was about to enter the research room.

 

The National Archive acted as advisor to KCC to ensure the standards set for the new building were met and to help with issues such as fire control, atmosphere and methods of storage. The National Archive acted as advisor to KCC to ensure the standards set for the new building were met and to help with issues such as fire control, atmosphere and methods of storage.

 

 

At the end of his tour the Duke unveiled the plaque commemorating the opening of the Centre. This plaque will eventually be put up on the outside of the building.

 

There is also a new exhibition celebrating the opening of the flagship centre for Kent history.
On display together for the first time are a unique collection of documents including letters, diaries and charters linked to some of the most famous people in British history. From Jane Austen to Charles Dickens, Cromwell to Nelson, a jilted bride and the Gunpowder Plot. 

 

The Manuscript Exhibition includes original documents from the Archives, the National Archive and from the archives at Pas de Calais, France. It runs from Saturday 3rd December 2012 until Saturday 2nd March 2013. Admission is Free. More details can be found at Kent Archives .

Historical National Grid (Gas) Photographs. The Gas REA London HQ Branch has put some 1, 400 photographs, most dating from the old Gas Industry, on its website. They have no captions and thus are seeking help from ex employees and others in identifying them. The Photographs can be found at OLD FLAMES