Timeline -

Timeline -
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Our stone age ancestors
Britain is attached to the continent and early human species migrate from Africa.
They live amongst large mammals which they hunt for food...
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Modern humans
Homo sapiens have migrated to Britain and live in large groups. They make increasingly sophisticated tools and weapons from wood and stone.
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New Stone Age
People begin farming and producing pottery, and take part in rituals that signify complex spiritual beliefs.
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Bronze Age
Bronze and copper replace stone as the preferred material for making tools and weapons.
The adoption of agriculture becomes widespread.
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Iron Age
Oldbury camp is built by Celtic British tribes on a hill west of Ightham, in a strategic location overlooking routes through the Kentish Weald...
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Roman settlements
Roman settlers occupy areas along the River Darent, north of Sevenoaks. These include Lullingstone villa, and, later, a larger villa in Otford.
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Christianity
One of Britain's earliest Christian chapels is built at Lullingstone Roman villa.
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Battle for Kent
Otford is the scene of a battle between Offa, King of Mercia and Alric, King of Kent. Offa is victorious.
Saint Edith
Saint Edith, daughter of King Edgar the Peaceful, is born in Kemsing.
The well in Kemsing is dedicated to her, as it was believed she gave the water healing properties.
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King Canute
After a failed Danish siege on London, a battle takes place in Otford between King Canute and English King Edmund Ironside...
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Battle of Hastings
Saxon King Harold likely marches through Sevenoaks on the way to the Hastings, where he is killed in battle. William the Conqueror then camps at Seal on the way to London, and becomes the first Norman King of England.
Domesday book
The Domesday book is produced. It shows that Otford is the largest manor in the area, covering 20 square miles, encompassing modern Sevenoaks. With 159 households, it is in the largest 20% of settlements in the country.
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Eynsford Castle is built
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Parish of Sevenoaks
The earliest record of St Nicholas Church is made in the Textus Roffensis, a list made for the Diocese of Rochester.
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Saint Thomas Becket
Thomas Becket is murdered in Canterbury Cathedral...
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Hever Castle is built
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Sevenoaks market
First mention of a market in Sevenoaks, an unofficial market without a charter, which had developed at a road junction.
Hospital for travellers
The earliest record of a hospital in Sevenoaks.
St John the Baptist hospital was run by clergymen and located in what was then dense forest, home to wild boar and wolves.
Ightham Mote manor house is built
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Black Death
The plague reaches England, transmitted to people by fleas on rats.
This deadly outbreak reduces the population by around 40%, with major social and economic consequences. In Sevenoaks, rents from shops and stalls in the market falls by two-thirds, and local trade declines.
William Sevenoke
According to legend, an abandoned baby is found in Sevenoaks by local tradesman and landowner William Rumstead. He adopts the child and names him William Sevenoke.
Brewing
Court records show that 63 houses in Sevenoaks are brewing ale at this time.
Market house
The first wooden market house is erected in Sevenoaks.
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From rags to riches
Former foundling child William Sevenoke becomes Mayor of London.
Romance writer Richard Johnson pays tribute to William Sevenoke in the book Nine Worthies of London.
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Sevenoaks School
William Sevenoke dies, leaving an endowment for a grammar school for poor boys, and almshouses for the two men and women 'in greatest want'...
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Cade's rebels battle at Sevenoaks
Jack Cade's rebellion takes place in Kent, fuelled by anger against high taxes and prices...
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Knole House
Archbishop Bourchier buys 100 acres of land for £266 to build Knole House, replacing an older manor house on the site.
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Introduction of the printing press
William Caxton, born in the Weald of Kent, introduces the printing press to England.
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Lullingstone Castle is built
Anne Boleyn
The Boleyn family move to Hever Castle, including the child Anne.
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Otford Palace
Otford Palace is built by Archbishop Warham. The grand Tudor brick building replaces an older manor on the site, to rival Cardinal Wolsey's Hampton Court.
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Henry VIII
Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon camp at Otford with their army of 5,000 men on their way to the Field of the Cloth of Gold, a grand event held in northern France (at this time part of England) to strengthen the bond between King Henry and King Francis I of France.
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Hops introduced to Kent
Around this time, hop plants start being grown for use in making beer.
It is believed that the first hop garden was set up near Canterbury.
John Frith becomes a martyr
John Frith of Westerham becomes the first English martyr to be executed for publishing Reformation doctrines ...
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Knole handed over to Henry VIII
Henry VIII takes Knole from Archbishop Cranmer.
Wyatt's rebels executed in Sevenoaks
Sir Thomas Wyatt leads a rebellion against Queen Mary I to prevent her marriage to Philip II of Spain, worried it will result in Spanish domination.
There is also concern at this time that England might revert to Catholicism...
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Lambarde's history of Kent
William Lambarde publishes A Perambulation of the County of Kent, which includes the first historical writing about Sevenoaks.
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The River Darent in literature
Edmund Spenser writes about the River Darent in his epic poem Faerie Queene, '… And the still Darent, in whose Waters clean, Ten thousand Fishes play, and deck his pleasant Stream.'
Poor Law
Relief for the poor, sick, orphaned and widowed becomes the responsibility of Sevenoaks parish.
Knole and the Sackvilles
Queen Elizabeth I dies and Knole House is left to her cousin, Thomas Sackville...
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Curative wells discovered
Mineral water springs containing iron salts are discovered in the parish of Tonbridge...
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John Morocco and Grace Robinson
The earliest record of Black people living in Sevenoaks. John Morocco and Grace Robinson are listed on the Knole inventory of house servants. John was a page and Grace was a laundress.
John Donne
John Donne is appointed as the Rector of St Nicholas Church, though he is only recorded as preaching there on one occasion...
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Chevening House
The first Chevening House is built to a design by Inigo Jones, the founder of English classical architecture.
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Postal service
The first public letter carrying service is established and Sevenoaks is one of the towns to benefit, with a staging post at the Bull Inn, Chipstead.
Knole House raided by Cromwell's troops
Sevenoaks stands out as a Royalist stronghold during the Civil Wars, being a town dominated by a few wealthy aristocrats.
In August, Knole House is raided by Oliver Cromwell's troops. Weapons and armour in the house are seized.
By winter, the Parliamentarian London military impose an armed block between Kentish Royalists and their comrades in the Midlands and the West.
Royalists and Parliamentarians battle in Sevenoaks
Royal supporters led by William Lone of Sevenoaks Park and Thomas Farnaby of Kippington fight Colonel Browne's soldiers at Hildenbrook. Browne is victorious.
After this event, Parliament sets up a local committee of men to look after the county of Kent.
Trade tokens
Merchants of Sevenoaks issue their own low value trade tokens because the government has failed to mint enough new coins. Unofficial currency like this is produced across the country.
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Trade tokens suppressed by royal proclamation
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Lady Margaret Boswell
Lady Margaret Boswell leaves money in her will for the education of the poorest 15 children of the parish, and to provide two scholarships of £12 per year to Jesus College, Cambridge.
Dr Fuller at the Red House
The distinctive building on Sevenoaks High Street becomes the home...
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Population
The population of Sevenoaks parish at this time is 1,572, as estimated by Gregory King.
Shoreham paper mill
The first reference is made to a paper mill in Shoreham. The clean, hard water of the Darent chalk stream was...
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Wildernesse house is built
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A storm hits Kent
A great storm hits the south of England on 26th November. Brenchley Church near Tonbridge loses its steeple and Penshurst Park loses over 500 trees.
Turnpike road
Turnpike built from Tonbridge to Sevenoaks. The introduction of turnpike roads indicates Parliament's increasing responsibility...
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Cricket on the Vine
The first cricket match recorded in Sevenoaks takes place on the Vine...
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Cricket ball manufacture
The craft of cricket ball making is established by the Duke Family in Penshurst. They become the first...
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Jeffrey Amherst
Sir Jeffrey Amherst is recalled from war and rebuilds his family home in Sevenoaks, naming it Montreal House...
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Silk production
The Nouaille silk mills at Greatness are at peak production. 100 people are employed at the busy factory, including children.
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Cricket bat production
John Frederick Sackville purchases 11 cricket bats from William Pett of Sevenoaks, one of the earliest known makers of cricket bats. Each costs two shillings and sixpence.
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First ever cricket century scored
John Minshull, playing for Duke of Dorset's XI against Wrotham on 31 August at Sevenoaks Vine, scores the first known century in any form of cricket. A partial scorecard from the match records that Minshull made a score of 107. This is the first scorecard to record an innings on a stroke-by-stroke basis.
Kippington House
Sir Charles Farnaby, a descendant of Thomas Farnaby, builds Kippington House.
It will later become home to Jane Austen's uncle Francis Motley Austen.
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Early abolitionists
A group of Evangelical activists known as the Teston circle begin campaigning to end the slave trade...
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Jane Austen
A 12 year old Jane Austen visits her great uncle Francis Austen who lives at the Red House on Sevenoaks high street...
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Mail robbery
A letter from the Sevenoaks Postmaster dated 2nd July describes a 'dramatic event', when the mail coach is robbed on its way from London...
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The first census
The first official census records the population of Sevenoaks as 2640.
Stanhope's printing press invented at Chevening
Charles Mahon, 3rd Earl Stanhope, makes a significant breakthrough in printing...
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Lady Boswell's School
A new, purpose built, Lady Boswell's School opens in London Road.
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Greatness silk mill closes down
The Shoreham Ancients
Samuel Palmer invites fellow artists to stay at his cottage in Shoreham, including John Linnell and Edward Calvert. Inspired by the work of William Blake, also a guest at the cottage, they formed a group called The Ancients.
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Beechmont House is built
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The first fire engine
Sevenoaks Fire Engine Association is formed, paid for by local residents and operated by volunteers using a horse drawn fire engine.
Swing Riots
Farm workers protest against mechanisation, harsh working conditions and low pay...
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Sevenoaks Gas Works established
Reform Act
Sevenoaks town is lit up when news arrives of the passing of the Reform Act.
This parliamentary reform was a step toward democracy.
The fight against Slavery continues
Sevenoaks Anti-Slavery Society is formed, which pressures Parliament to end slavery in the Empire. The 1807 Act had prohibited slave trading, but not slave ownership...
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Workhouses and the new Poor Law
Central government takes over management of poor relief from the parish...
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Street lighting introduced
Sevenoaks gets its first street lighting when gas lanterns on metal standards are installed along the High Street.
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Hartsland
Local builder Daniel Grover buys and begins to transform the Hartsland area into a working-class village.
It becomes the most densely inhabited area of Sevenoaks.
First local newspaper printed
The Sevenoaks Advertiser is the first newspaper published in the district, sold for a penny.
New workhouse
A new workhouse is built in Sundridge, which will provide local poor relief for the next century.
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The Hardinges and Colonial India
Former Sevenoaks School boy, Henry...
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Kent County Police Constabulary established
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Darwin's Origin of Species
Charles Darwin publishes his breakthrough work on his theory of evolution, which he wrote at Down House, his home near Orpington.
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Neolithic site discovered
Benjamin Harrison and Flinders Petrie conduct analysis of the Coldrum Stones, a Neolithic site in Wrotham...
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The railway comes to Sevenoaks
Responsible for the new, steam powered, Swanley to Bat and Ball line is the distinguished engineer Thomas Crampton.
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Brick making
Local brick making develops into a major industry, with demand for millions of bricks for railway construction and later for house building.
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Telegraph communications introduced
The electric telegraph system comes to Sevenoaks, the first electrical telecommunications system.
Water supply
Excavation of Sevenoaks railway tunnel hits an underground stream, flooding the works. This event financially ruins the contractor, John Jay.
Eventually a shaft is sunk and pumps installed, taking the water from Oak Lane to a reservoir south of the town which becomes the water supply for the people of Sevenoaks.
Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria visits Sevenoaks, arriving by train to Bat and Ball Station.
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Sevenoaks railway tunnel
Sevenoaks railway tunnel is completed and becomes the fifth longest railway tunnel in the country...
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A faster rail service
A new railway line is built, providing an alternative service into London from Sevenoaks Tubs Hill station.
Francis Crawshay's druid monuments
The eccentric iron baron from South Wales moves to Bradbourne...
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Swimming pool
The main mill pond at Greatness is turned into an open air swimming pool.
The Railway Children
A teenage Edith Nesbit, author of 'The Railway Children', lives at Halstead Hall near Sevenoaks...
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Hop picking and harvesting
Hop farming reaches its peak...
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Emily Jackson's hospital
Emily Jackson starts a hospital for the care of children with tubercular hip disease, working from her cottage on the Vine...
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Sevenoaks Fair
Traditionally held annually for three days in October, the Sevenoaks Fair ends under the Fairs Act 1871. Working class people oppose the closure which had been pushed through by shopkeepers who saw it as unwelcome competition.
Verney Lovett Cameron returns from Africa
Verney Lovett Cameron returns home to Shoreham with his servant John Stanboul, known as 'Jacko', from central Africa...
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School for the working classes
Cobden Road School is built for the children living in the Hartsland area, one of several Board Schools built in the area after the 1870 Education Act. These were the first state run schools.
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Lime Tree Walk
Architect Thomas Jackson and his father buy land in the town centre to build Lime Tree Walk, a small working class community of 24 cottages.
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J. Salmon Printers
Salmon printers is established at 85 High Street in Sevenoaks by London bookseller Joseph Salmon...
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Charles Essenhigh Corke
Sevenoaks painter and photographer Charles Essenhigh Corke establishes his photography studio...
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Sevenoaks Chronicle
The first issue of the Sevenoaks Chronicle newspaper is printed.
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Progress for public health
A main drainage system for waste removal is introduced in Sevenoaks.
This was thanks to the tireless efforts of James German. He successfully argued the benefits of a modern sanitation system, despite the difficulty in getting support from rate paying landowners who already had their own private drainage systems...
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Temperance and the Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is established in Sevenoaks. A mob greets the officers at Tub's Hill Station...
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Walthamstow Hall
The largest single structure in Sevenoaks is built, a red brick building to house a school for the daughters of missionaries...
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The Sevenoaks Readies
The Fire Engine Association buys a new horse drawn engine called 'The Ready' ...
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Sevenoaks Football Club founded
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The townspeople vs Lord Sackville
Lord Mortimer Sackville imposes new regulations on public access...
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Westerham Mill shuts down
Elm View Mill in Westerham ceases operations as a flour mill.
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Kent County Council is created
Forts constructed
Fort Halstead and Fort Westerham are built as part of a defence plan against a possible French invasion.
Telephone lines installed
The telephone is introduced to Sevenoaks. The first subscriber to the service is Alfred Laurie of Rockdale.
Brass band
Sevenoaks Town Band is formed and a bandstand is built on The Vine, gifted to the town by Henry Swaffield.
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Cyclists
Cycling becomes a popular means of transport and leisure.
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Lord Lister and Sevenoaks Hospital
Lord Lister, pioneer of antiseptic surgery.....
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Sevenoaks vs Arsenal
Sevenoaks Football Club plays against Royal Arsenal, the only professional team in South England at the time.
A crowd of 1,000 people attend the match, which was organised to raise money for local hospitals.
Sevenoaks lose 11-0.
Sevenoaks District Councils
Sevenoaks Urban and Rural District Councils are formed. Amongst other responsibilities, the SUDC takes over the fire service and begins...
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The Time Machine
H.G. Wells finishes writing his science fiction novel 'The Time Machine' whilst staying at 23 Eardley Road in Sevenoaks.
Octavia Hill and The National Trust
The National Trust is founded...
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Motor cars
The first motor car in Sevenoaks is registered.
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Toys Hill Well
Octavia Hill sinks a well for the residents of Toys Hill to use...
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Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Bank opens in Market Place in Sevenoaks, in the former house of the Salmon family.
South African War
Meeting and demonstrations are held in Sevenoaks to oppose the South African War ...
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Breweries and pubs
At this time there are around 60 pubs and 3 breweries in Sevenoaks, and more in the surrounding villages.
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Commuters
The population of Sevenoaks has doubled since the coming of the railways, with a wave of middle class commuters attracted to the area.
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New hip hospital
Emily Jackson raises money to buy ...
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Sevenoaks Art Club
Sevenoaks Art Club is founded by Elsie Druce. Its meetings are held in Lime Tree Studio.
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Seven oaks planted
Seven oak trees are planted at The Vine cricket ground to commemorate the coronation of Edward VII.
Jane Escombe
Artist and councillor for Penshurst...
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Hever Castle restoration
William Waldorf Astor, the richest man in America, purchases Hever Castle...
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Sevenoaks Artisans' Dwellings Company
The company builds a terrace of 20 houses in Cramptons Road (named after railway engineer Thomas Crampton), the start of a scheme to provide more working-class housing.
First public library opens
The first free public library opens in Sevenoaks on The Drive, thanks to Henry Swaffield and Andrew Carnegie. It was designed by Edwyn Evans Cronk.
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Cricket champions
A great celebration ball is held at the Royal Crown Hotel in Sevenoaks as Kent becomes champion cricket county...
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Plane crash at Kemsing
American aviator John Moisant crash lands in Kemsing. This is only a year after the very first cross channel flight was made...
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Coldrum Stones burial site discovered
A new investigation of the Neolithic site reveals human remains and grave markers, indicating use as a burial site.
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Motor bus service begins
The first motor bus service runs in Sevenoaks, run by Mr George Humphreys, the owner of Humphrey Forge...
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Cinema
The Palace picture house opens, the first purpose built cinema in Sevenoaks.
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Boots Chemists
Boots Cash Chemists opens in Sevenoaks High Street.
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Women's suffrage
Though the campaign for women's votes had been largely peaceful, this year sees a rise in violence and arson attacks carried out by militant suffragettes...
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Electricity comes to Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks Electricity Company builds a power station to provide the first public supply of electricity for the area. Several large private homes had their own generators before this.
First council houses
Sevenoaks Urban District Council buys land on the Greatness estate for the building of the first council houses in Sevenoaks town.
Eardley Road Swimming Baths
Money for an indoor swimming pool in Sevenoaks is gifted by Edward Kraftmeier, resident at Ashgrove House...
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First World War
On 4th August, Britain declares war on Germany.
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Sanitary Laundry
The gas works on Holly Bush Lane is replaced by a new building containing Sevenoaks Sanitary Laundry, providing a service to the wealthy homes of Sevenoaks...
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Voluntary Aid Detachment
Several VAD hospitals are managed by prominent women in the area. Vita Sackville-West directs a team of nurses at Hollybush Lane Hall VAD hospital ...
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Women in the workplace
Many women taken on jobs previously done by men to keep the country going during the war...
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The WI
Sevenoaks Women's Institute begins with 15 members. The WI was established to give women a voice and...
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Siegfried Sassoon
The decorated war hero, famous poet and former Sevenoaks school boy makes a public protest against the continuation of the war...
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War ends
St Nicholas Church bells ring out to celebrate the end of the war...
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Representation of the People Act
Women who are over 30 and meet property qualifications gain the right to vote for the first time, as do millions of working class men who were previously denied the vote.
Greatness House blown up
Greatness house is purchased by a film company and blown up in a dramatic explosion for a scene in a movie about the First World War.
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Lucy Deane Streatfeild
Lucy Deane Streatfeild is one of the first women appointed as a Justice of the Peace...
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Dredging begins at Riverhead
Gravel and sand for building materials is extracted from what will become Chipstead Lake.
Housing development
Large estates in the Sevenoaks area are sold off for housing developments, indicating a growing middle class and an upper class in need of income. Wildernesse land is bought by Percy Harvey and the Bradbourne estate is sold.
Churchill and Chartwell
Winston Churchill purchases Chartwell in Westerham as his family home...
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Sevenoaks Players
The Sevenoaks Players perform their first show.
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Politics
Ronald Williams of the Liberal party becomes the first and only non Conservative Member of Parliament to represent Sevenoaks, just for one year.
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Knole Park Golf Club opens
A 14 year old named Sam King works as a caddie on the day of the first tee at Knole...
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Speed limit
Protestors in Riverhead demand the enforcement of a speed limit. At this time an uncomfortable mix of motor vehicles and horse drawn carriages are using the A21 road.
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Seal Herb Farm
Dorothy Hewer establishes a herb farm in Seal, with the assistance of herbalist and writer Maud Grieve...
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Rail crash
A serious railway accident occurs when an express passenger train is derailed just south of the bridge across Shoreham Road at Riverhead. 13 people are killed...
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Passenger plane crash
A Dutch aircraft crashes at Underriver near Sevenoaks on its way from Croydon to Rotterdam. The mechanic is killed. The pilot and seven passengers are injured.
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Woodlands Holiday Camp opens
Greves and Winifred Mellor start a holiday campsite on the outskirts of Sevenoaks.
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Equal Franchise Act
Women gain equal voting rights to men.
Paper production ends
Shoreham mill closes down.
Virginia Woolf
Virginia Woolf publishes 'Orlando', a novel inspired by the family history of her friend and lover Vita Sackville-West...
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Sevenoaks Museum
Librarian George Bennett and local historian Doctor Gordon Ward establish a museum in Sevenoaks Library.
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Vita Sackville-West
Vita Sackville-West publishes her novel 'The Edwardians', a critique of aristocratic society inspired by...
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Graham Sutherland
Artist Graham Sutherland lives at Willow Cottage, Eynsford...
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Harrison Zoological Museum
Dr James Harrison sets up a zoological museum on St Botolph's Road, specialising in mammals and birds.
It is now the Harrison Institute, a biodiversity research centre.
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Vincent New
Prolific local artist and printmaker, Vincent New, is commissioned to produce a series of drawings for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, showing locations across the district...
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Royal Crown Hotel demolished
Once the social hub of Sevenoaks...
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Swanscombe skull discovered
400,000 year old human remains are discovered in Swanscombe ...
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Electrification of the railway
The first electric train runs from Sevenoaks to London.
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Montreal House demolished
Young's department store
The Rose and Crown Inn is demolished and replaced with Young's department store ...
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Second World War
Britain declares war against Nazi Germany.
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Womens Land Army
The WLA, which was set up during the First World War, is reformed...
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RAF Biggin Hill
A decoy airfield is constructed at Lullingstone to protect the Royal Air Force fighter station at Biggin Hill...
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Gas works bombed
In August, the gasworks is hit by several high explosive bombs.
Sevenoaks under attack
Sevenoaks suffers its first serious bomb attacks on 17th October. Shops on the High Street are hit, as well as houses in Buckhurst Lane and Lime Tree Walk.
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The Man in White
Famous singing conductor, T.P. Ratcliff, becomes the temporary singing master at Sevenoaks School. Known as 'the man in white', he led mass singing occasions such as Wembley Cup Finals.
Beechmont House destroyed
Beechmont House is destroyed by flying bombs.
Wickenden Road hit
In March, V2 rockets hit Wickenden Road, destroying several houses.
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War ends
St Nicholas Church bells ring out to celebrate the end of the war on the 2nd September...
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Thomas Hennell
War artist from Ridley, near New Ash Green, is presumed dead after being captured in Burma by Indonesian separatists...
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Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott
Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott is buried in Edenbridge cemetery. The gravestone reads, 'Nature he loved and next to nature art'...
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Seven oaks planted
Seven trees, the 'American Oaks' are planted near Vine Tavern to commemorate the town's gratitude to American forces during the war.
Crockham Hill Youth Hostel opens
Youth Hostels offer affordable accommodation to young working people on a scale never seen before, providing access to leisure pursuits and the countryside.
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Knole given to the National Trust
Charles Sackville gives Knole House to the National Trust, though the family is granted a 200 year lease on private apartments to continue living in their ancestral home.
Beatrice Wilson
Beatrice Wilson sets up the Sevenoaks and District Old People's Housing Association.
In her life she set up the first physiotherapy centre in Sevenoaks, and was dedicated to improving the lives of older people. A block of flats on Rockdale Road is named after her.
Sevenoaks Bookshop
The Sevenoaks Bookshop is established at 147 High Street when Basil and Frances Krish buy what was John Richardson’s secondhand bookshop...
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Chiddingstone Causeway Brickyard
The brickyard established by Owen Wilks in 1924 is now run by two women, his daughters Hilda and Nina.
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Secondary Modern education for all
Wildernesse Boys' School and Hatton Girls' School open, following the Education Act 1944 which made education for all to the age of 15 a legal requirement.
Sevenoaks Society
The Sevenoaks Society is founded, under its original name of the Sevenoaks Preservation Society.
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Seven oaks re-planted
The oak trees on Tonbridge Road dating from the 18th century are felled, due to suspected disease...
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Last woman hanged
Ruth Ellis, who lived in Westerham, is the last woman in the United Kingdom to receive capital punishment, after being convicted of murder.
There was much controversy about the highly publicised case. The film 'Dance with a Stranger' was made about her story.
Wildlife reserve created
A wildlife reserve is created at Bradbourne, the first example in Britain of a former commercial gravel pit being developed for the benefit of conservation...
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Feldberg's harpsichord workshop
John and Ann Feldberg rent premises on London Road in Sevenoaks and convert it into a harpsichord workshop...
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Hip hospital closes
The children's hospital on Eardley Road closes and becomes a geriatric wing for Sevenoaks Hospital.
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Chevening House given to the Prime Minister
Ownership of Chevening House is passed to a Trust and it becomes a country residence for a nominee of the Prime Minister. Only cabinet members and royals can be nominated.
Electric street lights introduced in Sevenoaks town
Gas production ends in Sevenoaks
School Swimming Pool
Edenbridge is the first primary school in Kent to have a swimming pool.
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Churchill's final years
Due to ill health, Winston Churchill moves out of Chartwell to his flat in London...
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The Beatles in Sevenoaks
Renowned portrait photographer Jane Bown is walking her dog in Knole Park when she comes across the biggest band in the world...
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Beechmont House is rebuilt
Woodlands Holiday Camp closes
Greves and Winifred Mellor retire after 40 years...
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Floods
Heavy autumn rain causes flooding. The ragstone wall of Knole Park acts as a dam until it breaks and sends water down Seal Hollow Road in Sevenoaks. In Edenbridge, Hever Castle and Tudor Village are flooded.
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Crampton Road brewery building is demolished
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Princess Diana
Diana Spencer attends West Heath School in Sevenoaks for her teenage years.
Kathleen Blow retires
Blow's grocery shop in Sevenoaks reaches the end of 93 years as a family business.
The shop was established by Joseph Blow in 1881, later taken over by his daughter Kathleen.
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Sevenoaks District Council created
Sevenoaks Urban and Rural District Councils are replaced by Sevenoaks District and Town Councils.
Youngs department store closes
Gordon Anckorn
Gordon Anckorn, photographer and journalist for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, retires after 50 years...
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Harpsichord workshop closes
After 20 years, during which they had upgraded to premises in Bradbourne Road, shop manager Ann Feldberg and master craftsman Peter Whale start to wind down business...
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The Stag
The Stag Theatre opens in the building previously used as a cinema, located where the Royal Crown Hotel once stood.
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Dredging Chipstead Lake finishes
New library
A new library is built at Buckhurst Lane, including tourist information, citizens advice, a museum and art gallery.
M25
The M25 or London Orbital Motorway is completed...
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The great storm
In October, six of the seven oak trees on the vine cricket ground are blown down in the great storm. Around half of the trees on Sevenoaks Common are also lost due to the extreme weather.
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Orbital
The pioneering electronic music duo from Sevenoaks release their first record.
Paul and Phil Hartnoll named their act after the M25 motorway, which was central to the early rave scene.
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Cattle market closes
Sevenoaks livestock market closes down. The general market continues and moves to the town centre.
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John Downton Awards
The John Downton Awards for young artists in Kent is established, in memory of the artist from Erith who passed away in 1991...
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New leisure centre
A new leisure centre with indoor swimming pool is built in the centre of Sevenoaks.
Dame Kelly Holmes
Kelly Holmes from Hildenborough becomes the first athlete to win two gold medals...
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Woolworths closes down
Woolworths, one of Britain's oldest chain stores, closes down in the midst of a global financial crisis...
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Population
The official census records the population of Sevenoaks as 24,987.
Sarah Morris
Artists are commissioned to create posters for the upcoming Olympic Games ...
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Olympic and Paralympic Games
The London 2012 Olympic torch relay travels through Sevenoaks...
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Same sex couples gain the right to marry
Same sex marriage becomes legal in the United Kingdom after 396 MPs vote to pass the bill...
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Brexit
The government holds a referendum to let the public to decide whether the country should leave the European Union. Roughly 55% of voters in the Sevenoaks and Swanley constituency vote to leave, a slightly larger majority than the 51% overall result.
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c.900,000 years ago
c.40,000 years ago
c.4000 - c.2500 BC
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Molar tooth of a straight tusked elephant of the Pleistocene, found in local brick pits © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.900,000 years ago
Our stone age ancestors
Early human species live amongst large mammals which they hunt for food, such as the Straight Tusked Elephant, another migrant from Africa, twice the size of a modern elephant.
Stone hand axe from Lower Paleolithic period, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.900,000 years ago
Our stone age ancestors
Early human species live amongst large mammals which they hunt for food, such as the Straight Tusked Elephant, another migrant from Africa, twice the size of a modern elephant.
Stone hand axe from Lower Paleolithic period, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
K1511 Molar tooth from a Straight Tusked Elephant of the Pleistocene, twice the size of a modern African elephant.
Flint hand axe, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.40,000 years ago
Modern humans
Modern humans have dispersed into Europe from Africa. They live in large groups, and make increasingly sophisticated tools and weapons from wood and stone.
c.40,000 years ago
Modern humans
Modern humans have dispersed into Europe from Africa. They live in large groups, and make increasingly sophisticated tools and weapons from wood and stone.
Flint hand axe, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Neolithic flint arrowheads, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.4000 – c.2500 BC
New Stone Age
People begin farming and producing pottery, and take part in rituals that signify complex spiritual beliefs.
Britain is an island after millennia of rising sea levels, the final separation thought to have been caused by a giant tsunami.
Coldrum Longbarrow (2020). This ancient burial site was built around 4000 BC, and is one of the 'Medway Megaliths'.
Neolithic flint arrowheads, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.4000 – c.2500 BC
New Stone Age
People begin farming and producing pottery, and take part in rituals that signify complex spiritual beliefs.
Britain is an island after millennia of rising sea levels, the final separation thought to have been caused by a giant tsunami.
Coldrum Longbarrow (2020). This ancient burial site was built around 4000 BC, and is one of the 'Medway Megaliths'.
Bronze Age axe head, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.2500 – c.600 BC
Bronze Age
Bronze and copper replace stone as the preferred material for making tools and weapons.
The adoption of agriculture becomes widespread.
Bronze Age axe head, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.2500 – c.600 BC
Bronze Age
Bronze and copper replace stone as the preferred material for making tools and weapons.
The adoption of agriculture becomes widespread.
Drawing of Iron Age grave at Aylesford, showing objects deliberately buried with human remains.
c.100 BC
Iron Age
Oldbury camp built by Celtic British tribes on a hill west of Ightham, in a strategic location overlooking routes through the Kentish Weald.

Coins start being produced and circulated in Britain from this time.
Drawing of Iron Age grave at Aylesford, showing objects deliberately buried with human remains.
c.100 BC
Iron Age
Oldbury camp built by Celtic British tribes on a hill west of Ightham, in a strategic location overlooking routes through the Kentish Weald.

Coins start being produced and circulated in Britain from this time.
Roman samian ware cup, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Roman bone hairpins, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
100-300 AD
Roman settlements
Roman settlers occupy areas along the River Darent, north of Sevenoaks. These include Lullingstone villa, and, later, a larger villa in Otford.
K2235 Roman gold finger ring in snake form, 1-200AD, found by metal detection in Otford
Roman samian ware cup, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Roman bone hairpins, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
100-300 AD
Roman settlements
Roman settlers occupy areas along the River Darent, north of Sevenoaks. These include Lullingstone villa, and, later, a larger villa in Otford.
K2235 Roman gold finger ring in snake form, 1-200AD, found by metal detection in Otford
Christian symbol on wall fresco from Lullingstone villa © The Trustees of the British Museum
c.350
Christianity
One of Britain’s earliest Christian chapels is built at Lullingstone Roman villa.
Christian symbol on wall fresco from Lullingstone villa © The Trustees of the British Museum
c.350
Christianity
One of Britain’s earliest Christian chapels is built at Lullingstone Roman villa.
Kemsing well, © Jane Mucklow
961
Saint Edith
Saint Edith, daughter of King Edgar the Peaceful, is born in Kemsing.

A well was later dedicated to her, as it was believed she gave the water healing properties.
Kemsing well, © Jane Mucklow
961
Saint Edith
Saint Edith, daughter of King Edgar the Peaceful, is born in Kemsing.

A well was later dedicated to her, as it was believed she gave the water healing properties.
King Canute penny © The Royal Mint Museum
1016
King Canute
After a failed Danish siege on London, a battle takes place in Otford between King Canute and English King Edmund Ironside. Edmund is triumphant on this occasion, but Canute is crowned King of England just months later.
King Canute penny © The Royal Mint Museum
1016
King Canute
After a failed Danish siege on London, a battle takes place in Otford between King Canute and English King Edmund Ironside. Edmund is triumphant on this occasion, but Canute is crowned King of England just months later.
Otford record in the Domesday book. Credit: Professor John Palmer, George Slater and opendomesday.org
1086
Domesday book
The Domesday book is produced. It shows that Otford is the largest manor in the area, covering 20 square miles, encompassing modern Sevenoaks. With 159 households, it is in the largest 20% of settlements in the country.
Otford record in the Domesday book. Credit: Professor John Palmer, George Slater and opendomesday.org
1086
Domesday book
The Domesday book is produced. It shows that Otford is the largest manor in the area, covering 20 square miles, encompassing modern Sevenoaks. With 159 households, it is in the largest 20% of settlements in the country.
Modern day ruins of the Norman castle
c.1100
Eynsford Castle is built
Modern day ruins of the Norman castle
c.1100
Eynsford Castle is built
St Nicholas Church (2020)
1122
Parish of Sevenoaks
The earliest record of St Nicholas Church is made in the Textus Roffensis, a list made for the Diocese of Rochester.
Textus Roffensis c.1120. A page from this thousand-year-old document showing the entry for ‘Seouenaca’, the earliest record of a parish church at Sevenoaks. © Rochester Cathedral
St Nicholas Church (2020)
1122
Parish of Sevenoaks
The earliest record of St Nicholas Church is made in the Textus Roffensis, a list made for the Diocese of Rochester.
Textus Roffensis c.1120. A page from this thousand-year-old document showing the entry for ‘Seouenaca’, the earliest record of a parish church at Sevenoaks. © Rochester Cathedral
Illustration of the murder of Thomas Becket (1860s)
1170
Saint Thomas Becket
Thomas Becket is murdered in Canterbury Cathedral.
Becket stayed at Otford numerous times, and his name is given to a well on the site.
As Archbishop of Canterbury, he rejected material wealth and challenged King Henry II’s power over the church, causing a rift between them.
Illustration of the murder of Thomas Becket (1860s)
1170
Saint Thomas Becket
Thomas Becket is murdered in Canterbury Cathedral.
Becket stayed at Otford numerous times, and his name is given to a well on the site.
As Archbishop of Canterbury, he rejected material wealth and challenged King Henry II’s power over the church, causing a rift between them.
Engraving of Hever Castle (1700s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1270
Hever Castle is built
Engraving of Hever Castle (1700s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1270
Hever Castle is built
Ightham Mote, attributed to Charles Landsdeer (1799-1879) © Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
c.1340
Ightham Mote manor house is built
Ightham Mote, attributed to Charles Landsdeer (1799-1879) © Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
c.1340
Ightham Mote manor house is built
Illustration of the old market house pre-1554
1400s
Market house
The first wooden market house is erected in Sevenoaks.
Illustration of the old market house pre-1554
1400s
Market house
The first wooden market house is erected in Sevenoaks.
Casts from the seals of William Sevenoke, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1418
From rags to riches
Former foundling child, William Sevenoke, becomes Mayor of London.
Casts from the seals of William Sevenoke, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1418
From rags to riches
Former foundling child, William Sevenoke, becomes Mayor of London.
Cast of Sevenoaks School seal, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1432
Sevenoaks School
William Sevenoke dies, leaving an endowment for a grammar school for poor boys, and almshouses for the two men and women ‘in greatest want’.
Sevenoaks School is now an independent fee paying school.
Cast of Sevenoaks School seal, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1432
Sevenoaks School
William Sevenoke dies, leaving an endowment for a grammar school for poor boys, and almshouses for the two men and women ‘in greatest want’.
Sevenoaks School is now an independent fee paying school.
Jack Cade's Rabblement by Keeley Halswelle (1832-1891) © Bury Art Museum
1450
Cade's rebels battle at Sevenoaks
In June, 10,000 men prepare to bring their grievances to King Henry VI, but they are dispersed by the army. A group of rebels retreat to Sevenoaks and fight with soldiers at Solefields.
In July, the men march again to London, this time taking the head of James Fiennes, owner of Knole and King’s Lieutenant for Kent.
These events triggered the Wars of the Roses.
Jack Cade's Rabblement by Keeley Halswelle (1832-1891) © Bury Art Museum
1450
Cade's rebels battle at Sevenoaks
In June, 10,000 men prepare to bring their grievances to King Henry VI, but they are dispersed by the army. A group of rebels retreat to Sevenoaks and fight with soldiers at Solefields.
In July, the men march again to London, this time taking the head of James Fiennes, owner of Knole and King’s Lieutenant for Kent.
These events triggered the Wars of the Roses.
Knole House in 1809 © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1456
Knole House
Archbishop Bourchier buys 100 acres of land for £266 to build Knole House, replacing an older manor house on the site.
Knole House in 1809 © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1456
Knole House
Archbishop Bourchier buys 100 acres of land for £266 to build Knole House, replacing an older manor house on the site.
William Caxton pub sign in Tenterden © Oast House Archive
1476
Introduction of the printing press
William Caxton, born in the Weald of Kent, introduces the printing press to England from Germany.
William Caxton pub sign in Tenterden © Oast House Archive
1476
Introduction of the printing press
William Caxton, born in the Weald of Kent, introduces the printing press to England from Germany.
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Queen Anne Boleyn, British School (c.1535) © Dulwich Picture Gallery
c.1504
Anne Boleyn
The Boleyn family move to Hever Castle, including the child Anne.
Queen Anne Boleyn, British School (c.1535) © Dulwich Picture Gallery
c.1504
Anne Boleyn
The Boleyn family move to Hever Castle, including the child Anne.
Tile fragments from Otford Palace, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Silver brooch found in Otford (c.1300 - 1600 AD), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1518
Otford Palace
Otford Palace is built by Archbishop Warham.
The grand Tudor brick building replaces an older manor on the site, rivalling Cardinal Wolsey’s Hampton Court.
Otford Palace ruins
Tile fragments from Otford Palace, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Silver brooch found in Otford (c.1300 - 1600 AD), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1518
Otford Palace
Otford Palace is built by Archbishop Warham.
The grand Tudor brick building replaces an older manor on the site, rivalling Cardinal Wolsey’s Hampton Court.
Otford Palace ruins
Field of the Cloth of Gold by John Gilbert (1817-1897), © Parliamentary Art Collection
1520
Henry VIII
Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon camp at Otford with their army of 5,000 men on their way to the Field of the Cloth of Gold, a grand event held in northern France (at this time part of England) to strengthen the bond between King Henry and King Francis I of France.
Field of the Cloth of Gold by John Gilbert (1817-1897), © Parliamentary Art Collection
1520
Henry VIII
Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon camp at Otford with their army of 5,000 men on their way to the Field of the Cloth of Gold, a grand event held in northern France (at this time part of England) to strengthen the bond between King Henry and King Francis I of France.
Victorian embroidery commemorating John Frith © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1533
John Frith becomes a martyr
John Frith from Westerham becomes the first English martyr to be executed for publishing Reformation doctrines, burnt at the stake at just 30 years old.
He had helped William Tyndale translate the bible into English.
Frith went to school in Sevenoaks.
Victorian embroidery commemorating John Frith © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1533
John Frith becomes a martyr
John Frith from Westerham becomes the first English martyr to be executed for publishing Reformation doctrines, burnt at the stake at just 30 years old.
He had helped William Tyndale translate the bible into English.
Frith went to school in Sevenoaks.
1554
Wyatt's rebels executed in Sevenoaks
Sir Thomas Wyatt leads a rebellion against Queen Mary I to prevent her marriage to Philip II of Spain, worried it will result in Spanish domination. There is also concern at this time that England might revert to Catholicism. Local leaders of the Rebellion are hanged at Gallows Corner, to the west of St John’s Hill in Sevenoaks, after being held in the town jail.
1554
Wyatt's rebels executed in Sevenoaks
Sir Thomas Wyatt leads a rebellion against Queen Mary I to prevent her marriage to Philip II of Spain, worried it will result in Spanish domination. There is also concern at this time that England might revert to Catholicism. Local leaders of the Rebellion are hanged at Gallows Corner, to the west of St John’s Hill in Sevenoaks, after being held in the town jail.
Engraving of William Lambarde
1576
Lambarde's history of Kent
William Lambarde publishes A Perambulation of the County of Kent, which includes the first historical writing about Sevenoaks.
Engraving of William Lambarde
1576
Lambarde's history of Kent
William Lambarde publishes A Perambulation of the County of Kent, which includes the first historical writing about Sevenoaks.
Portrait engraving of Thomas Sackville, Earl of Dorset © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1603
Knole and the Sackvilles
Queen Elizabeth I dies and Knole House is left to her cousin, Thomas Sackville.

It is to stay in the Sackville family for centuries.
Portrait engraving of Thomas Sackville, Earl of Dorset © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1603
Knole and the Sackvilles
Queen Elizabeth I dies and Knole House is left to her cousin, Thomas Sackville.

It is to stay in the Sackville family for centuries.
Tunbridge Wells in the time of Charles II © Wellcome Collection
1606
Curative wells discovered
Mineral water springs containing iron salts are discovered in the parish of Tonbridge, in the area that would become the town of Tunbridge Wells.

They become a destination for wealthy Londoners seeking recuperation.
Tunbridge Wells in the time of Charles II © Wellcome Collection
1606
Curative wells discovered
Mineral water springs containing iron salts are discovered in the parish of Tonbridge, in the area that would become the town of Tunbridge Wells.

They become a destination for wealthy Londoners seeking recuperation.
Portrait of John Donne at the age of 49 © Victoria and Albert Museum
1616
John Donne
John Donne is appointed as the Rector of St Nicholas Church, though he is only recorded as preaching there on one occasion.
Considered one of the greatest poets of the English language, Donne was the founder of the metaphysical school of poetry. His poem ‘No man is an island’, is widely quoted to this day.
Prolific diarist and Lady of Knole House, Anne Clifford, wrote that on meeting Donne she was ‘blubbered with weeping’ by his speech.
Portrait of John Donne at the age of 49 © Victoria and Albert Museum
1616
John Donne
John Donne is appointed as the Rector of St Nicholas Church, though he is only recorded as preaching there on one occasion.
Considered one of the greatest poets of the English language, Donne was the founder of the metaphysical school of poetry. His poem ‘No man is an island’, is widely quoted to this day.
Prolific diarist and Lady of Knole House, Anne Clifford, wrote that on meeting Donne she was ‘blubbered with weeping’ by his speech.
Chevening House by Bayne (1829)
1620
Chevening House
The first Chevening House is built to a design by Inigo Jones, the founder of English classical architecture.
Chevening House by Bayne (1829)
1620
Chevening House
The first Chevening House is built to a design by Inigo Jones, the founder of English classical architecture.
Token issued by Sevenoaks merchant Thomas Greene (c.1660), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Token issued by Sevenoaks merchant Thomas Wickenden (1666), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1650s – 60s
Trade tokens
Merchants of Sevenoaks issue their own low value trade tokens because the government has failed to mint enough new coins. This unofficial currency is produced across the country.
1650s – 60s
Trade tokens
Merchants of Sevenoaks issue their own low value trade tokens because the government has failed to mint enough new coins. This unofficial currency is produced across the country.
Token issued by Sevenoaks merchant Thomas Greene (c.1660), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Token issued by Sevenoaks merchant Thomas Wickenden (1666), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Printing block used for H.L. Somers-Cocks and V.F. Boyson’s book, Edenbridge, published in 1912. It shows images of Edenbridge trade tokens. One issued by Robert Alchorne and William Ablett, and the other by Katherine Huberd © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1672
Trade tokens suppressed by royal proclamation
Printing block used for H.L. Somers-Cocks and V.F. Boyson’s book, Edenbridge, published in 1912. It shows images of Edenbridge trade tokens. One issued by Robert Alchorne and William Ablett, and the other by Katherine Huberd © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1672
Trade tokens suppressed by royal proclamation
Engraving of Dr Thomas Fuller (1739) © The Trustees of the British Museum
1686
Dr Fuller at the Red House
The distinctive new building on Sevenoaks High Street becomes the home of Doctor Thomas Fuller, esteemed pharmacist and medical practitioner.
He held views on the benefits of beer and the dangers of tobacco smoking, and was known to never use any treatment on a patient that he had not tested on himself.
The Red House, now a solicitor's offices (2020)
Engraving of Dr Thomas Fuller (1739) © The Trustees of the British Museum
1686
Dr Fuller at the Red House
The distinctive new building on Sevenoaks High Street becomes the home of Doctor Thomas Fuller, esteemed pharmacist and medical practitioner.
He held views on the benefits of beer and the dangers of tobacco smoking, and was known to never use any treatment on a patient that he had not tested on himself.
The Red House, now a solicitor's offices (2020)
Watercolour sketch of Shoreham mill before it was demolished in 1936, by Vincent New © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1690s
Shoreham paper mill
The first reference is made to a paper mill in Shoreham. The clean, hard water of the Darent chalk stream was well suited to making white paper.
Prior to this there is evidence of a corn mill and a fulling (cloth making) mill.
Watercolour sketch of Shoreham mill before it was demolished in 1936, by Vincent New © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1690s
Shoreham paper mill
The first reference is made to a paper mill in Shoreham. The clean, hard water of the Darent chalk stream was well suited to making white paper.
Prior to this there is evidence of a corn mill and a fulling (cloth making) mill.
Wildernesse House c. 1820, drawing by J.P. Neale
1702
Wildernesse house is built
Wildernesse House c. 1820, drawing by J.P. Neale
1702
Wildernesse house is built
Turnpike toll post, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1709
Turnpike road
Turnpike built from Tonbridge to Sevenoaks. The introduction of turnpike roads indicates Parliament’s increasing responsibility over road maintenance.
Turnpike Acts authorised a trust to levy tolls on those using the road.
Turnpike toll post, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1709
Turnpike road
Turnpike built from Tonbridge to Sevenoaks. The introduction of turnpike roads indicates Parliament’s increasing responsibility over road maintenance.
Turnpike Acts authorised a trust to levy tolls on those using the road.
Souvenir programme for the bicenentary of the first cricket match on the Vine (1934)
1734
Cricket on the Vine
The first cricket match recorded in Sevenoaks takes place on the Vine.
The London Evening Post 23 August 1734, reported:
‘The Match at Cricket between the eleven Gentlemen of Sevenoaks in Kent, and the Gentlemen of London, on Tuesday last, on Sevenoaks-Vine, was not determined that Day, there being four Wickets to go down, and twenty-three Notches to fetch to win when the Time was out; but the Match was ended Yesterday, in favour of London, by six Notches only.’
Jos Burchetts add 80 stitches to the outer cover of a cricket ball at the Wisden Factory in Chiddingstone Causeway (1970) © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1760
Cricket ball manufacture
The craft of cricket ball making is established by the Duke Family in Penshurst.
They become the first manufacturers of the classic six seam ball.
Jos Burchetts add 80 stitches to the outer cover of a cricket ball at the Wisden Factory in Chiddingstone Causeway (1970) © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1760
Cricket ball manufacture
The craft of cricket ball making is established by the Duke Family in Penshurst.
They become the first manufacturers of the classic six seam ball.
Lord Amherst's Park © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1764
Jeffrey Amherst
Sir Jeffrey Amherst is recalled from war and has Montreal House built.
He was a successful Commander in Chief of North America, and a benefactor to the town of Sevenoaks, but evidence of his intentions to exterminate
the indigenous American population shows a darker side to the local hero.
Montreal House in the early 1800s
Lord Amherst's Park © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1764
Jeffrey Amherst
Sir Jeffrey Amherst is recalled from war and rebuilds his family home in Sevenoaks, naming it Montreal House.
Though a successful Commander in Chief of North America and great benefactor to our town, there is a darker side to his story.
Letters show that he promoted the idea of ‘gifting’ smallpox ridden blankets to Native Americans as a way to exterminate the indigenous population.
Montreal House in the early 1800s
Peter Nouaille of Greatness in 1809 © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1766
Silk production
The Nouaille silk mills at Greatness are at peak production. 100 people are employed at the busy factory, including children.
Peter Nouaille of Greatness in 1809 © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1766
Silk production
The Nouaille silk mills at Greatness are at peak production. 100 people are employed at the busy factory, including children.
18th century Pett cricket bat on loan from the Vine Cricket Club, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum. It is the second oldest cricket bat on display in a museum.
1766
Cricket bat production
John Frederick Sackville purchases 11 cricket bats from William Pett of Sevenoaks, one of the earliest known makers of cricket bats. Each costs two shillings and sixpence.
18th century Pett cricket bat on loan from the Vine Cricket Club, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum. It is the second oldest cricket bat on display in a museum.
1766
Cricket bat production
John Frederick Sackville purchases 11 cricket bats from William Pett of Sevenoaks, one of the earliest known makers of cricket bats. Each costs two shillings and sixpence.
Kippington House, The Seat of Francis Motley Austen Esq. drawn by J.G. Wood © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.1780
Kippington House
Sir Charles Farnaby, a descendant of Thomas Farnaby, builds Kippington House.
It later becomes home to Jane Austen’s uncle Francis Motley Austen.
Kippington House, early 19th century
Kippington House, The Seat of Francis Motley Austen Esq. drawn by J.G. Wood © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.1780
Kippington House
Sir Charles Farnaby, a descendant of Thomas Farnaby, builds Kippington House.
It later becomes home to Jane Austen’s uncle Francis Motley Austen.
Kippington House, early 19th century
Engraving of Olaudah Equiano
1780s
Early abolitionists
A group of Evangelical activists known as the Teston circle begin campaigning to end the slave trade, from the home of Charles and Margaret Middleton, near Maidstone.
In 1787, the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade is founded, a result of the influential Teston circle. Peter Nouaille of Greatness contributes 5 guineas to the cause.
Celebrated abolitionist Olaudah Equiano is reported to have visited Teston. Equiano wrote a book about a traumatic journey from slavery to freedom which he promoted throughout the country.
Engraving of Olaudah Equiano
1780s
Early abolitionists
A group of Evangelical activists known as the Teston circle begin campaigning to end the slave trade, from the home of Charles and Margaret Middleton, near Maidstone.
In 1787, the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade is founded, a result of the influential Teston circle. Peter Nouaille of Greatness contributes 5 guineas to the cause.
Celebrated abolitionist Olaudah Equiano is reported to have visited Teston. Equiano wrote a book about a traumatic journey from slavery to freedom which he promoted throughout the country.
Portrait of Jane Austen by her sister Cassandra © National Portrait Gallery
1788
Jane Austen
A 12 year old Jane Austen visits her great uncle Francis Austen who lives at the Red House on Sevenoaks high street.
It was here she met wealthy members of her family who might have inspired her first witty observations of high society life.
Portrait of Jane Austen by her sister Cassandra © National Portrait Gallery
1788
Jane Austen
A 12 year old Jane Austen visits her great uncle Francis Austen who lives at the Red House on Sevenoaks high street.
It was here she met wealthy members of her family who might have inspired her first witty observations of high society life.
'The Mail Coach in a Thunder Storm on Newmarket Heath' (1827) © Royal Mail Group Ltd, courtesy of The Postal Museum
1798
Mail robbery
A letter from the Sevenoaks Postmaster dated 2nd July describes a ‘dramatic event’, when the mail coach is robbed on its way from London. The thieves ‘clapt a pistol to the Boy’s head’ at Pratts Bottom.
After this event, an armed guard was authorised for the London to Hastings mail route.
'The Mail Coach in a Thunder Storm on Newmarket Heath' (1827) © Royal Mail Group Ltd, courtesy of The Postal Museum
1798
Mail robbery
A letter from the Sevenoaks Postmaster dated 2nd July describes a ‘dramatic event’, when the mail coach is robbed on its way from London. The thieves ‘clapt a pistol to the Boy’s head’ at Pratts Bottom.
After this event, an armed guard was authorised for the London to Hastings mail route.
Illustration of the Stanhope printing press
1803
Stanhope's printing press invented at Chevening
Charles Mahon, 3rd Earl Stanhope, makes a significant breakthrough in printing when he invents a cast-iron press which could withstand the pressures of repeated prints.
His first design, with straight sides, still cracked during a run, but his second design, with curved sides, proved much stronger. This press was used to print The Times newspaper for most of the 19th century.
Illustration of the Stanhope printing press
1803
Stanhope's printing press invented at Chevening
Charles Mahon, 3rd Earl Stanhope, makes a significant breakthrough in printing when he invents a cast-iron press which could withstand the pressures of repeated prints.
His first design, with straight sides, still cracked during a run, but his second design, with curved sides, proved much stronger. This press was used to print The Times newspaper for most of the 19th century.
Lady Boswell's School certificate (1920), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1818
Lady Boswell's School
A new, purpose built, Lady Boswell’s School opens in London Road.
Lady Boswell's School certificate (1920), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1818
Lady Boswell's School
A new, purpose built, Lady Boswell’s School opens in London Road.
Shoreham Vale by John Linnell (1792-1882) © The Fitzwilliam Museum
Hesperides, 'Dance around the Golden Tree' by Edward Calvert (1799–1883) © The Fitzwilliam Museum
The Harvest Moon by Samuel Palmer (1805–1881) © Yale Center for British Art
1826 – 1835
The Shoreham Ancients
Samuel Palmer invites fellow artists to stay at his cottage in Shoreham, including John Linnell and Edward Calvert. Inspired by the work of William Blake, also a guest at the cottage, they formed a group called The Ancients.
1826 – 1835
The Shoreham Ancients
Samuel Palmer invites fellow artists to stay at his cottage in Shoreham, including John Linnell and Edward Calvert. Inspired by the work of William Blake, also a guest at the cottage, they formed a group called The Ancients.
Shoreham Vale by John Linnell (1792-1882) © The Fitzwilliam Museum
Hesperides, 'Dance around the Golden Tree' by Edward Calvert (1799–1883) © The Fitzwilliam Museum
The Harvest Moon by Samuel Palmer (1805–1881) © Yale Center for British Art
Beechmont House in the late 19th century
c.1830
Beechmont House is built
Beechmont House in the late 19th century
c.1830
Beechmont House is built
Satirical print of Captain Swing (1930) © The Trustees of the British Museum
1830
Swing Riots
Farm workers protest against mechanisation, harsh working conditions and low pay.
At least 14 incidents were recorded in Sevenoaks, and the Maidstone Journal reported that in Sevenoaks ‘scarcely a night passes without some farmer having a cornstack or a barn set on fire’. Threatening letters to farm owners, magistrates and others were signed by ‘Captain Swing’, a ficticious figurehead of the movement.
The uprising was a result of increasing levels of unemployment and poverty, partly due to the population rise after the Napoleonic war. Several rioters were punished with jail and some even execution.
Satirical print of Captain Swing (1930) © The Trustees of the British Museum
1830
Swing Riots
Farm workers protest against mechanisation, harsh working conditions and low pay.
At least 14 incidents were recorded in Sevenoaks, and the Maidstone Journal reported that in Sevenoaks ‘scarcely a night passes without some farmer having a cornstack or a barn set on fire’. Threatening letters to farm owners, magistrates and others were signed by ‘Captain Swing’, a ficticious figurehead of the movement.
The uprising was a result of increasing levels of unemployment and poverty, partly due to the population rise after the Napoleonic war. Several rioters were punished with jail and some even execution.
1832
The fight against slavery continues
Sevenoaks Anti-Slavery Society is formed, which pressures Parliament to end slavery in the Empire. The 1807 Act had prohibited slave trading, but not slave ownership.
Records of the Slave Compensation Commission provide a census of British slave ownership in the 1830s. The 14 names listed from the Sevenoaks area include John Atkins, politician, who lived at Halstead Place, and Reverend John Thomas Wilgress in Sundridge.
Slavery in the British Empire began in the 1600s, and the connection to Sevenoaks goes back just as far. Edward Sackville of Knole briefly served as Governor of the Somers Island Company which administered Bermuda from 1615, and later became a Commissioner for Planting Virginia. Over the centuries, a succession of wealthy residents in the district had built their fortune (at least in part) through owning shares in Caribbean plantations.
1832
The fight against slavery continues
Sevenoaks Anti-Slavery Society is formed, which pressures Parliament to end slavery in the Empire. The 1807 Act had prohibited slave trading, but not slave ownership.
Records of the Slave Compensation Commission provide a census of British slave ownership in the 1830s. The 14 names listed from the Sevenoaks area include John Atkins, politician, who lived at Halstead Place, and Reverend John Thomas Wilgress in Sundridge.
Slavery in the British Empire began in the 1600s, and the connection to Sevenoaks goes back just as far. Edward Sackville of Knole briefly served as Governor of the Somers Island Company which administered Bermuda from 1615, and later became a Commissioner for Planting Virginia. Over the centuries, a succession of wealthy residents in the district had built their fortune (at least in part) through owning shares in Caribbean plantations.
George Cruikshank's illustration of 'Oliver asking for more' (1911)
1834
Workhouses and the new Poor Law
Central government takes over management of ‘poor relief’ from the parish overseers, and workhouses are introduced.
The new law is opposed by many, including Sevenoaks Rector Thomas Curteis, who writes his concerns in a long letter to Prime Minister Peel. The local St Johns Hill workhouse becomes subject to scandal for its failings.
Charles Dickens’ ‘Oliver Twist’ is the most famous depiction of workhouses from this time.
George Cruikshank's illustration of 'Oliver asking for more' (1911)
1834
Workhouses and the new Poor Law
Central government takes over management of ‘poor relief’ from the parish overseers, and workhouses are introduced.
The new law is opposed by many, including Sevenoaks Rector Thomas Curteis, who writes his concerns in a long letter to Prime Minister Peel. The local St Johns Hill workhouse becomes subject to scandal for its failings.
Charles Dickens’ ‘Oliver Twist’ is the most famous depiction of workhouses from this time.
Sevenoaks high street (c.1900)
1840
Street lighting introduced
Sevenoaks gets its first street lighting.
Gas lanterns on metal standards are installed along the High Street.
Sevenoaks high street (c.1900)
1840
Street lighting introduced
Sevenoaks gets its first street lighting.
Gas lanterns on metal standards are installed along the High Street.
Hospital, formerly the workhouse (1990s)
1844
New workhouse
A new workhouse is built in Sundridge, which will provide local poor relief for the next century.
Hospital, formerly the workhouse (1990s)
1844
New workhouse
A new workhouse is built in Sundridge, which will provide local poor relief for the next century.
Oil painting of Charles Hardinge, son of Henry Hardinge © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1844
The Hardinges and Colonial India
Former Sevenoaks School boy, Henry Hardinge, becomes Governor General of India, whilst the country is still under the rule of the British East India Company. His son Charles joins him as his Private Secretary.
The British Crown later took control of India in 1858, after the Indian Rebellion the previous year, but a new system of governance was not enough to suppress the growing independence movement.
Charles’s son, also Charles, went on to be Governor General of India between 1910 and 1916, following in the family footsteps.
The Indian people finally broke free of colonial rule in 1947, after helping Britain fight two world wars.
Oil painting of Charles Hardinge, son of Henry Hardinge © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1844
The Hardinges and Colonial India
Former Sevenoaks School boy, Henry Hardinge, becomes Governor General of India, whilst the country is still under the rule of the British East India Company. His son Charles joins him as his Private Secretary.
The British Crown later took control of India in 1858, after the Indian Rebellion the previous year, but a new system of governance was not enough to suppress the growing independence movement.
Charles’s son, also Charles, went on to be Governor General of India between 1910 and 1916, following in the family footsteps.
The Indian people finally broke free of colonial rule in 1947, after helping Britain fight two world wars.
Two police officers on Sevenoaks High Street (late 1800s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1857
Kent County Police Constabulary established
Two police officers on Sevenoaks High Street (late 1800s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1857
Kent County Police Constabulary established
Darwin's study in Down House
1859
Darwin's Origin of Species
Charles Darwin publishes his breakthrough work on his theory of evolution, which he wrote at Down House, his home near Orpington.
Portrait photograph of Charles Darwin
Darwin's study in Down House
1859
Darwin's Origin of Species
Charles Darwin publishes his breakthrough work on his theory of evolution, which he wrote at Down House, his home near Orpington.
Portrait photograph of Charles Darwin
Oil painting of Benjamin Harrison by C. Chitty (1921) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1860s
Neolithic site discovered
Benjamin Harrison and Flinders Petrie conduct analysis of the Coldrum Stones, a Neolithic site in Wrotham.
It is considered to be the oldest prehistoric site in the UK, pre-dating Stonehenge by approximately 1000 years.
Sevenoaks Museum now holds a collection of Benjamin Harrison’s archaeological finds.
Coldrum Longbarrow (2020). This ancient burial site was built around 4000 BC, and is one of the 'Medway Megaliths'.
Oil painting of Benjamin Harrison by C. Chitty (1921) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1860s
Neolithic site discovered
Benjamin Harrison and Flinders Petrie conduct analysis of the Coldrum Stones, a Neolithic site in Wrotham.
It is considered to be the oldest prehistoric site in the UK, pre-dating Stonehenge by approximately 1000 years.
Sevenoaks Museum now holds a collection of Benjamin Harrison’s archaeological finds.
Coldrum Longbarrow (2020). This ancient burial site was built around 4000 BC, and is one of the 'Medway Megaliths'.
Portrait of Thomas Crampton
1862
The railway comes to Sevenoaks
Responsible for the new, steam powered, Swanley to Bat and Ball line was the distinguished engineer Thomas Crampton.
Portrait of Thomas Crampton
1862
The railway comes to Sevenoaks
Responsible for the new, steam powered, Swanley to Bat and Ball line was the distinguished engineer Thomas Crampton.
Dunton Green brick and bullnose brick mould, 1800s
1860s
Brick making
Local brick making develops into a major industry, with demand for millions of bricks for railway construction and later for house building.
Dunton Green brick and bullnose brick mould, 1800s
1860s
Brick making
Local brick making develops into a major industry, with demand for millions of bricks for railway construction and later for house building.
Queen Victoria by Richard Hooke © Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
1867
Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria visits Sevenoaks, arriving by train to Bat and Ball Station.
Queen Victoria by Richard Hooke © Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
1867
Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria visits Sevenoaks, arriving by train to Bat and Ball Station.
Sevenoaks railway tunnel by unknown artist
1868
Sevenoaks railway tunnel
Sevenoaks railway tunnel is completed and becomes the fifth longest railway tunnel in the country.
The hard working navvies who dug the tunnel had been living on Bogs Island, a slum area of Dunton Green where disease was rife. The working and living conditions of the navvies was described in German economist Karl Marx’s ‘Das Kapital’, which quotes the reports of the Sevenoaks medical officer of health.
Sevenoaks railway tunnel by unknown artist
1868
Sevenoaks railway tunnel
Sevenoaks railway tunnel is completed and becomes the fifth longest railway tunnel in the country.
The hard working navvies who dug the tunnel had been living on Bogs Island, a slum area of Dunton Green where disease was rife. The working and living conditions of the navvies was described in German economist Karl Marx’s ‘Das Kapital’, which quotes the reports of the Sevenoaks medical officer of health.
One of Crawshay's monoliths in Bradbourne park (2020)
1870s
Francis Crawshay's druid monuments
The eccentric iron baron from South Wales, Francis Crawshay, moves to Bradbourne in Sevenoaks.
He had a keen interest in druids, and erected stone monoliths on the estate. He was known to indulge in midnight druidical processions.
One of Crawshay's monoliths in Bradbourne park (2020)
1870s
Francis Crawshay's druid monuments
The eccentric iron baron from South Wales, Francis Crawshay, moves to Bradbourne in Sevenoaks.
He had a keen interest in druids, and erected stone monoliths on the estate. He was known to indulge in midnight druidical processions.
Edith Nesbit, portrait photograph from the book 'The Lives and Loves of Edith Nesbit'
1870s
The Railway Children
A teenage Edith Nesbit, author of The Railway Children, lives at Halstead Hall near Sevenoaks.
Though her famous story is set in Yorkshire, it was in rural Kent that Nesbit fell in love with trains and the house in Knockholt which inspired the book.
Edith Nesbit, portrait photograph from the book 'The Lives and Loves of Edith Nesbit'
1870s
The Railway Children
A teenage Edith Nesbit, author of The Railway Children, lives at Halstead Hall near Sevenoaks.
Though her famous story is set in Yorkshire, it was in rural Kent that Nesbit fell in love with trains and the house in Knockholt which inspired the book.
Scuppet used for moving hops in the oast house, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1870s
Hop picking and harvesting
Hop farming reaches its peak.
Gypsy travellers and Londoners would come to Kent for seasonal work during hop season. The flowers would be picked then dried in oast houses. For working class families from the city, the experience was considered a holiday.
Hop pickers at work (1850s) © Wellcome Collection
Scuppet used for moving hops in the oast house, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1870s
Hop picking and harvesting
Hop farming reaches its peak.
Gypsy travellers and Londoners would come to Kent for seasonal work during hop season. The flowers would be picked then dried in oast houses. For working class families from the city, the experience was considered a holiday.
Hop pickers at work (1850s) © Wellcome Collection
Portrait medallion of Emily Jackson, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1871
Emily Jackson's hospital
Emily Jackson starts a hospital for the care of children with tubercular hip disease, working from her cottage on the Vine.
Emily initiated her career in nursing when she found a young girl named Ellen Merry living in a Sevenoaks slum, badly suffering with hip abscesses.
Painting of cottage where Emily Jackson set up her first hospital © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Portrait medallion of Emily Jackson, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1871
Emily Jackson's hospital
Emily Jackson starts a hospital for the care of children with tubercular hip disease, working from her cottage on the Vine.
Emily initiated her career in nursing when she found a young girl named Ellen Merry living in a Sevenoaks slum, badly suffering with hip abscesses.
Painting of cottage where Emily Jackson set up her first hospital © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Lieutenant Cameron's Welcome Home by Charles West Cope (1877) © Shoreham Church.
Cameron and Jacko can be seen in a carriage being pulled by the people of the village.
1876
Verney Lovett Cameron returns from Africa
Verney Lovett Cameron returns home to Shoreham with his servant John Stanboul, known as ‘Jacko’, from central Africa. They bring back various plants and animals for research, including a porcupine and a monkey.
Cameron had been sent by the Royal Geographic Society to help the explorer and missionary David Livingstone. After discovering that Livingstone had died, he continued travelling across Africa, recording his three year journey.
In Shoreham, Jacko becomes a servant at the vicarage for the Reverend Jonathan Cameron, Verney’s father.
Lieutenant Cameron's Welcome Home by Charles West Cope (1877) © Shoreham Church.
Cameron and Jacko can be seen in a carriage being pulled by the people of the village.
1876
Verney Lovett Cameron returns from Africa
Verney Lovett Cameron returns home to Shoreham with his servant John Stanboul, known as ‘Jacko’, from central Africa. They bring back various plants and animals for research, including a porcupine and a monkey.
Cameron had been sent by the Royal Geographic Society to help the explorer and missionary David Livingstone. After discovering that Livingstone had died, he continued travelling across Africa, recording his three year journey.
In Shoreham, Jacko becomes a servant at the vicarage for the Reverend Jonathan Cameron, Verney’s father.
Cobden Road School (c.1900)
1877
School for the working classes
Cobden Road School is built for the children living in the Hartsland area, one of several Board Schools built in the area after the 1870 Education Act. These were the first state run schools.
Cobden Road School (c.1900)
1877
School for the working classes
Cobden Road School is built for the children living in the Hartsland area, one of several Board Schools built in the area after the 1870 Education Act. These were the first state run schools.
Drawing of Lime Tree Walk workmen's cottages by Thomas Jackson
1879
Lime Tree Walk
Architect Thomas Jackson and his father buy land in the town centre to build Lime Tree Walk, a small working class community of 24 cottages.
He recorded, ‘I had tried to make them beautiful… with a kind of simple grace which comes from plain sensible construction’.
Drawing of Lime Tree Walk workmen's cottages by Thomas Jackson
1879
Lime Tree Walk
Architect Thomas Jackson and his father buy land in the town centre to build Lime Tree Walk, a small working class community of 24 cottages.
He recorded, ‘I had tried to make them beautiful… with a kind of simple grace which comes from plain sensible construction’.
Salmon postcard showing the Salmon shop on Sevenoaks High Street © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1880
J. Salmon Printers
Salmon printers is established at 85 High Street in Sevenoaks by London bookseller Joseph Salmon.
Early pioneers of postcard printing, they often worked with local artists to produce pictorial colour postcards  and guide books of Knole, Sevenoaks and other locations in Kent.
Salmon printers composing room (1899)
Salmon postcard showing the Salmon shop on Sevenoaks High Street © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1880
J. Salmon Printers
Salmon printers is established at 85 High Street in Sevenoaks by London bookseller Joseph Salmon.
Early pioneers of postcard printing, they often worked with local artists to produce pictorial colour postcards  and guide books of Knole, Sevenoaks and other locations in Kent.
Salmon printers composing room (1899)
Charles Essenhigh Corke's photography studio in Sevenoaks
1881
Charles Essenhigh Corke
Sevenoaks painter and photographer Charles Essenhigh Corke establishes his photography studio.
His children Henry and Beatrice went on to run the family business as accomplished photographers themselves, after Charles’s retirement.
Salmon postcard of Knole, illustrated by Charles Essenhigh Corke © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Charles Essenhigh Corke's photography studio in Sevenoaks
1881
Charles Essenhigh Corke
Sevenoaks painter and photographer Charles Essenhigh Corke establishes his photography studio.
His children Henry and Beatrice went on to run the family business as accomplished photographers themselves, after Charles’s retirement.
Salmon postcard of Knole, illustrated by Charles Essenhigh Corke © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Sign from the office of the Sevenoaks Chronicle, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1881
Sevenoaks Chronicle
The first issue of the Sevenoaks Chronicle newspaper is printed.
Sign from the office of the Sevenoaks Chronicle, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1881
Sevenoaks Chronicle
The first issue of the Sevenoaks Chronicle newspaper is printed.
1882
Progress for public health
A main drainage system for waste removal is introduced in Sevenoaks.
This was thanks to the tireless efforts of James German. He successfully argued the benefits of a modern sanitation system, despite the difficulty in getting support from rate paying landowners who already had their own private drainage systems.
Before this, privies, and soil pits had to be regularly cleaned, and waste water lay on the surface, resulting in bad smells and disease. In the years after, improved health could be seen in the fall in death and infant mortality rates.
1882
Progress for public health
A main drainage system for waste removal is introduced in Sevenoaks.
This was thanks to the tireless efforts of James German. He successfully argued the benefits of a modern sanitation system, despite the difficulty in getting support from rate paying landowners who already had their own private drainage systems.
Before this, privies, and soil pits had to be regularly cleaned, and waste water lay on the surface, resulting in bad smells and disease. In the years after, improved health could be seen in the fall in death and infant mortality rates.
Kent Band of Hope Union certificate (1934), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1882
Temperance and the Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is established in Sevenoaks. A mob greets the officers at Tub’s Hill Station to hurl abuse and rubbish at them as they march to the Baptist church in the town centre.
Local publicans and brewers opposed the Salvation Army because it campaigned against alcoholic excess.
Another temperance organisation, the Band of Hope Union, had gained around 1 million members by this time. The Band of Hope Union was set up by a Baptist minister to teach children about the dangers of alcohol abuse.
Sevenoaks Salvation Army man
1882
Temperance and the Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is established in Sevenoaks. A mob greets the officers at Tub’s Hill Station to hurl abuse and rubbish at them as they march to the Baptist church in the town centre.
Local publicans and brewers opposed the Salvation Army because it campaigned against alcoholic excess.
Another temperance organisation, the Band of Hope Union, had gained around 1 million members by this time. The Band of Hope Union was set up by a Baptist minister to teach children about the dangers of alcohol abuse.
Sevenoaks Salvation Army man
Kent Band of Hope Union certificate (1934), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Receipt for Walthamstow Hall school fees (1922) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1882
Walthamstow Hall
The largest single structure in Sevenoaks is built, a red brick building to house a school for the daughters of missionaries. The school had moved from a London suburb, giving it its name of Walthamstow Hall.
Walthamstow Hall postcard (c.1900)
Receipt for Walthamstow Hall school fees (1922) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1882
Walthamstow Hall
The largest single structure in Sevenoaks is built, a red brick building to house a school for the daughters of missionaries. The school had moved from a London suburb, giving it its name of Walthamstow Hall.
Walthamstow Hall postcard (c.1900)
Fire brigade helmet, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Library
1883
The Sevenoaks Readies
The Fire Engine Association buys a new horse drawn engine called ‘The Ready’, and they change their name to ‘The Ready Volunteer Fire Brigade’.
The Ready Fire Brigade on engine pulled by two horses
Fire brigade helmet, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Library
1883
The Sevenoaks Readies
The Fire Engine Association buys a new horse drawn engine called ‘The Ready’, and they change their name to ‘The Ready Volunteer Fire Brigade’.
The Ready Fire Brigade on engine pulled by two horses
Sevenoaks Football Club in 1901 © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1883
Sevenoaks Football Club founded
Sevenoaks Football Club in 1901 © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1883
Sevenoaks Football Club founded
Cartoon of obstructions being removed at Knole Park, Penny Pictorial News 28 June 1884
1884
The townspeople vs Lord Sackville
Lord Mortimer Sackville imposes new regulations on public access through Knole Park. Infuriated locals from all social backgrounds break into the grounds and remove the obstructions.
At the bonfire night celebrations, the Guy is an effigy of Mortimer Sackville.
Model of the gate destroyed in the siege, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Cartoon of obstructions being removed at Knole Park, Penny Pictorial News 28 June 1884
1884
The townspeople vs Lord Sackville
Lord Mortimer Sackville imposes new regulations on public access through Knole Park. Infuriated locals from all social backgrounds break into the grounds and remove the obstructions.
At the bonfire night celebrations, the Guy is an effigy of Mortimer Sackville.
Model of the gate destroyed in the siege, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Painting of Westerham Mill by E. Featherstone © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Tourism poster for Westerham showing old mill, by Clive Gardner (1937), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
c.1890
Westerham Mill shuts down
Elm View Mill in Westerham ceases operations as a flour mill.
c.1890
Westerham Mill shuts down
Elm View Mill in Westerham ceases operations as a flour mill.
Painting of Westerham Mill by E. Featherstone © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Tourism poster for Westerham showing old mill, by Clive Gardner (1937), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Photograph of Sevenoaks Town Band under the bandstand, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1890s
Brass band
Sevenoaks Town Band is formed and a bandstand is built on The Vine, gifted to the town by Henry Swaffield.
Photograph of Sevenoaks Town Band under the bandstand, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1890s
Brass band
Sevenoaks Town Band is formed and a bandstand is built on The Vine, gifted to the town by Henry Swaffield.
Sevenoaks Cycling Club with penny farthing bicycles (1886), taken by C. Essenhigh Corke © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Timberlake's cycle shop, Sevenoaks (early 1900s)
1890s
Cyclists
Cycling becomes an increasingly popular means of transport and leisure.
Cyclists Touring Club ticket to dinner at the Rose and Crown Hotel in Wrotham (1927) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1890s
Cyclists
Cycling becomes an increasingly popular means of transport and leisure.
Cyclists Touring Club ticket to dinner at the Rose and Crown Hotel in Wrotham (1927) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Sevenoaks Cycling Club with penny farthing bicycles (1886), taken by C. Essenhigh Corke © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Timberlake's cycle shop, Sevenoaks (early 1900s)
Lord Lister by unknown artist © Wellcome Collection
1892
Lord Lister and Sevenoaks Hospital
Lord Lister, pioneer of antiseptic surgery, becomes consultant at Sevenoaks and Holmesdale Cottage Hospital at the bottom of St Johns Hill.
Sevenoaks and Holmesdale hospital
Lord Lister by unknown artist © Wellcome Collection
1892
Lord Lister and Sevenoaks Hospital
Lord Lister, pioneer of antiseptic surgery, becomes consultant at Sevenoaks and Holmesdale Cottage Hospital at the bottom of St Johns Hill.
Sevenoaks and Holmesdale hospital
SUDC stamp
1894
Sevenoaks District Councils
Sevenoaks Urban and Rural District Councils are formed. Amongst other responsibilities, the SUDC takes over the fire service and begins to implement much needed housing standards.
SUDC stamp
1894
Sevenoaks District Councils
Sevenoaks Urban and Rural District Councils are formed. Amongst other responsibilities, the SUDC takes over the fire service and begins to implement much needed housing standards.
Portrait of Octavia Hill © Wellcome Collection
1895
Octavia Hill and The National Trust
The National Trust is founded. A key figure in the foundation of the trust is activist and social reformer, Octavia Hill, who lived at Toys Hill.
Portrait of Octavia Hill © Wellcome Collection
1895
Octavia Hill and The National Trust
The National Trust is founded. A key figure in the foundation of the trust is activist and social reformer, Octavia Hill, who lived at Toys Hill.
Early car parked on London Road, opposite a motor garage
1896
Motor cars
The first motor car in Sevenoaks is registered.
Early car parked on London Road, opposite a motor garage
1896
Motor cars
The first motor car in Sevenoaks is registered.
Well dressing (a rural tradition) in Toys Hill, 1998 © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1898
Toys Hill Well
Octavia Hill sinks a well for the residents of Toys Hill to use, and gifts it to the National Trust.
Well dressing (a rural tradition) in Toys Hill, 1998 © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1898
Toys Hill Well
Octavia Hill sinks a well for the residents of Toys Hill to use, and gifts it to the National Trust.
Welcome Home certificate to the West Kent Regiment on return from the South African War (1901), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1899 – 1902
War protests
Meeting and demonstrations are held in Sevenoaks to oppose the South African War. These activities come to a head when local opponents are assailed by a local mob.
Most people in Sevenoaks supported the war. Three soldiers from the town died during the South African War, all from disease.
Welcome Home certificate to the West Kent Regiment on return from the South African War (1901), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1899 – 1902
War protests
Meeting and demonstrations are held in Sevenoaks to oppose the South African War. These activities come to a head when local opponents are assailed by a local mob.
Most people in Sevenoaks supported the war. Three soldiers from the town died during the South African War, all from disease.
Westerham brown ale label © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Beer flagon from Bligh's Holmesdale brewery (late 1800s), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1901
Breweries and pubs
At this time there are around 60 pubs and 3 breweries in Sevenoaks, and more in the surrounding villages.
Smith's Brewery, Sevenoaks
1901
Breweries and pubs
At this time there are around 60 pubs and 3 breweries in Sevenoaks, and more in the surrounding villages.
Smith's Brewery, Sevenoaks
Westerham brown ale label © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Beer flagon from Bligh's Holmesdale brewery (late 1800s), © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Sevenoaks Tubs Hill Station (1923)
1901
Commuters
The population of Sevenoaks has doubled since the coming of the railways, with a wave of middle class commuters attracted to the area.
Sevenoaks Tubs Hill Station (1923)
1901
Commuters
The population of Sevenoaks has doubled since the coming of the railways, with a wave of middle class commuters attracted to the area.
Nurse and patient at Emily Jackson Hospital (1920s) Courtesy of Barchester Health Care
1901
New hip hospital
Emily Jackson raises money to buy land on Eardley Road where her brother, Thomas Jackson, designs her new children’s hospital.
Nurse and patient at Emily Jackson Hospital (1920s) Courtesy of Barchester Health Care
1901
New hip hospital
Emily Jackson raises money to buy land on Eardley Road where her brother, Thomas Jackson, designs her new children’s hospital.
'Spring cleaning at the Lime Street Studios' by Elsie Druce © Rye Art Gallery
1901
Sevenoaks Art Club
Sevenoaks Art Club is founded by Elsie Druce. Its meetings are held in Lime Tree Studio.
The club is still going, just one of several arts and crafts societies that have existed in Sevenoaks.
Hand painted poster for exhibition at Lime Tree Studio (1923) by Felix Tomlin, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
'Spring cleaning at the Lime Street Studios' by Elsie Druce © Rye Art Gallery
1901
Sevenoaks Art Club
Sevenoaks Art Club is founded by Elsie Druce. Its meetings are held in Lime Tree Studio.
The club is still going, just one of several arts and crafts societies that have existed in Sevenoaks.
Hand painted poster for exhibition at Lime Tree Studio (1923) by Felix Tomlin, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Memorial plaque in Penshurst Parish Church
c.1900
Jane Escombe
Artist and councillor for Penshurst, Jane Escombe, convinces the Sevenoaks Rural District Council to secure the first social housing in the district, providing workers’ cottages at affordable rents.
At this time, women who were property owners and paid rates could be elected to local councils, but were still unable to vote in general elections.
Memorial plaque in Penshurst Parish Church
c.1900
Jane Escombe
Artist and councillor for Penshurst, Jane Escombe, convinces the Sevenoaks Rural District Council to secure the first social housing in the district, providing workers’ cottages at affordable rents.
At this time, women who were property owners and paid rates could be elected to local councils, but were still unable to vote in general elections.
Scaffolding at Hever Castle (1903) © Hever Castle & Gardens
1903
Hever Castle restoration
William Waldorf Astor, the richest man in America, purchases Hever Castle and begins restoring it to its former glory.
Managed by architect Frank Loughborough Pearson, the workmen were not allowed to use modern planes, only the adze and the chisel.
Scaffolding at Hever Castle (1903) © Hever Castle & Gardens
1903
Hever Castle restoration
William Waldorf Astor, the richest man in America, purchases Hever Castle and begins restoring it to its former glory.
Managed by architect Frank Loughborough Pearson, the workmen were not allowed to use modern planes, only the adze and the chisel.
Membership application for Sevenoaks Library © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Sevenoaks Library fine tickets (early 1900s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1905
First public library opens
The first free public library opens in Sevenoaks on The Drive, thanks to Henry Swaffield and Andrew Carnegie.
It was designed by Edwyn Evans Cronk.
1905
First public library opens
The first free public library opens in Sevenoaks on The Drive, thanks to Henry Swaffield and Andrew Carnegie.
It was designed by Edwyn Evans Cronk.
Membership application for Sevenoaks Library © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Sevenoaks Library fine tickets (early 1900s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Postcard of the Royal Crown Hotel
1906
Cricket champions
A great celebration ball is held at the Royal Crown Hotel in Sevenoaks as Kent becomes champion cricket county.
The grand Victorian hotel hosted all kinds of large events, from dances to auctions.
Postcard of the Royal Crown Hotel
1906
Cricket champions
A great celebration ball is held at the Royal Crown Hotel in Sevenoaks as Kent becomes champion cricket county.
The grand Victorian hotel hosted all kinds of large events, from dances to auctions.
Moisant with his kitten mascot
1910
Plane crash at Kemsing
American aviator John Moisant crash lands in Kemsing. This is only a year after the very first cross channel flight was made by Louis Bleriot, so it is quite a spectacle for the local villagers.
Moisant and his cat mascot stay for a couple of weeks whilst the plane is repaired.
Crowds gather around Moisant's Bleriot aircraft
Moisant with his kitten mascot
1910
Plane crash at Kemsing
American aviator John Moisant crash lands in Kemsing. This is only a year after the very first cross channel flight was made by Louis Bleriot, so it is quite a spectacle for the local villagers.
Moisant and his cat mascot stay for a couple of weeks whilst the plane is repaired.
Crowds gather around Moisant's Bleriot aircraft
Courtesy of Kent Archaeological Trust
1910
Coldrum Stones burial site discovered
A new investigation of the site of the Coldrum Stones reveals human remains and grave markers, indicating use as a burial site.
Courtesy of Kent Archaeological Trust
Courtesy of Kent Archaeological Trust
1910
Coldrum Stones burial site discovered
A new investigation of the site of the Coldrum Stones reveals human remains and grave markers, indicating use as a burial site.
Courtesy of Kent Archaeological Trust
Early motor bus used on Sevenoaks route (pre-1920s)
1911
Motor bus service begins
The first motor bus service runs in Sevenoaks, run by Mr George Humphreys, the owner of Humphrey Forge. The back wheels were made of steel and had no tires, so it would have been a bumpy ride.
Early motor bus used on Sevenoaks route (pre-1920s)
1911
Motor bus service begins
The first motor bus service runs in Sevenoaks, run by Mr George Humphreys, the owner of Humphrey Forge. The back wheels were made of steel and had no tires, so it would have been a bumpy ride.
Cinema originally known as The Palace (1930s)
1912
Cinema
The Palace picture house on Tubs Hill opens, the first purpose built cinema in Sevenoaks.
Cinema originally known as The Palace (1930s)
1912
Cinema
The Palace picture house on Tubs Hill opens, the first purpose built cinema in Sevenoaks.
Boots chemists in Sevenoaks with horse and cart in front
1912
Boots Chemists
Boots Cash Chemists opens in Sevenoaks High Street.
Halibut oil tablets jar from Boots, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Boots chemists in Sevenoaks with horse and cart in front
1912
Boots Chemists
Boots Cash Chemists opens in Sevenoaks High Street.
Halibut oil tablets jar from Boots, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
National Union of Women's Suffrage pamphlet
1913
Women's suffrage
Though the campaign for women’s votes had been largely peaceful, this year sees a rise in violence and arson attacks carried out by militant suffragettes.
In April, Tunbridge Wells cricket pavillion is targeted. Prior to the attack, a Kent official is reported to have said, “
It is not true that women are banned from the pavilion. Who do you think makes the teas?
In July, local supporters of the suffrage movement take part in a pilgrimage to join a rally of 50,000 women in Hyde Park, led by Lucy Deane Streatfeild of Westerham.
Nevill cricket pavillion after arson attack
National Union of Women's Suffrage pamphlet
1913
Women's suffrage
Though the campaign for women’s votes had been largely peaceful, this year sees a rise in violence and arson attacks carried out by militant suffragettes.
In April, Tunbridge Wells cricket pavillion is targeted. Prior to the attack, a Kent official is reported to have said, “
It is not true that women are banned from the pavilion. Who do you think makes the teas?
In July, local supporters of the suffrage movement take part in a pilgrimage to join a rally of 50,000 women in Hyde Park, led by Lucy Deane Streatfeild of Westerham.
Nevill cricket pavillion after arson attack
Sevenoaks swimming baths (early 1900s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1914
Eardley Road Swimming Baths
Money for an indoor swimming pool in Sevenoaks is gifted by Edward Kraftmeier, resident at Ashgrove House.
When war breaks out, he takes his wife’s surname, ‘Kay’, so as not to sound German.
Sevenoaks swimming baths (early 1900s) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1914
Eardley Road Swimming Baths
Money for an indoor swimming pool in Sevenoaks is gifted by Edward Kraftmeier, resident at Ashgrove House.
When war breaks out, he takes his wife’s surname, ‘Kay’, so as not to sound German.
Photograph of Alfred Steer, cavalry solider, on horseback, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum. This picture was taken in Kent as he prepared to go to France.
1914
First World War
On 4th August, Britain declares war on Germany.
Photograph of Alfred Steer, cavalry solider, on horseback, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum. This picture was taken in Kent as he prepared to go to France.
1914
First World War
On 4th August, Britain declares war on Germany.
Laundry building on Holly Bush Lane (2026)
c.1915
Sanitary Laundry
Sevenoaks Sanitary Laundry begins servicing the wealthy homes of Sevenoaks.
Laundry was a major employer in the Hartslands area from the turn of the century, with the Oak Laundry in Bethel Road also nearby.
Local newspaper employment advertisements give an idea of the work: ‘Good Ironers wanted, also Shirt and Collar Machinest; good wages’ (1915) and ‘Strong Lad or Girl wanted for Hyrdro’ (1916
Cornwall Hall VAD hospital
Kent VAD certificate for Ethel Glasier © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1914 – 1918
Voluntary Aid Detachment
VAD hospitals are managed by prominent women in the area, to take care of wounded soldiers.
Vita Sackville-West directs a team of nurses at Hollybush Lane Hall VAD hospital.
Violet Mills takes charge of the hospital at Wildernesse and her achievements are awarded an MBE.
Mrs K. Mansfield is awarded the Royal Red Cross for running the hospital at Cornwall Hall.
Cornwall Hall VAD hospital
Kent VAD certificate for Ethel Glasier © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1914 – 1918
Voluntary Aid Detachment
VAD hospitals are managed by prominent women in the area, to take care of wounded soldiers.
Vita Sackville-West directs a team of nurses at Hollybush Lane Hall VAD hospital.
Violet Mills takes charge of the hospital at Wildernesse and her achievements are awarded an MBE.
Mrs K. Mansfield is awarded the Royal Red Cross for running the hospital at Cornwall Hall.
Women handling hides at the Whitmore Tannery during the First World War © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1914 – 1918
Women in the workplace
Many women taken on jobs previously done by men to keep the country going during the war.
Female tannery workers in Edenbridge, for example, entered the business as ‘substitutes’, to keep the jobs open for male family members that were lucky enough to return.
Women handling hides at the Whitmore Tannery during the First World War © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1914 – 1918
Women in the workplace
Many women taken on jobs previously done by men to keep the country going during the war.
Female tannery workers in Edenbridge, for example, entered the business as ‘substitutes’, to keep the jobs open for male family members that were lucky enough to return.
Hand painted poster for Sevenoaks WI event (1930) by Felix Tomlin, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1916
The WI
Sevenoaks Women’s Institute begins with 15 members. The WI was established to give women a voice and to be a force for good in the community.
It is now the largest women’s organisation in the UK.
Siegfried Sassoon by Glyn Warren Philpot (1884-1937) © The Fitzwilliam Museum
1917
Siegfried Sassoon
The decorated war hero, famous poet and former Sevenoaks school boy makes a public protest against the continuation of the war. Instead of being court martialled, he is sent to a hospital for officers to receive treatment for ‘shell-shock’.
The following year he publishes ‘Counter Attack’, a collection of anti-war poems based on his harrowing experiences on the front.
Sassoon’s argument against the war was rational, but the existence of mental illness amongst traumatised soldiers was significant. The Great War was a pivotal point in psychiatry and challenged classist views about mental illness. It was established that talking about trauma, not repressing it, was crucial to recovery.
Siegfried Sassoon by Glyn Warren Philpot (1884-1937) © The Fitzwilliam Museum
1917
Siegfried Sassoon
The decorated war hero, famous poet and former Sevenoaks school boy makes a public protest against the continuation of the war. Instead of being court martialled, he is sent to a hospital for officers to receive treatment for ‘shell-shock’.
The following year he publishes ‘Counter Attack’, a collection of anti-war poems based on his harrowing experiences on the front.
Sassoon’s argument against the war was rational, but the existence of mental illness amongst traumatised soldiers was significant. The Great War was a pivotal point in psychiatry and challenged classist views about mental illness. It was established that talking about trauma, not repressing it, was crucial to recovery.
First World War memorial in Sevenoaks, erected in 1920 (2020)
1918
War ends
St Nicholas Church bells ring out to celebrate the end of the war.
229 soldiers from the town of Sevenoaks lost their lives, according to the names recorded on the First World War Memorial.
First World War memorial in Sevenoaks, erected in 1920 (2020)
1918
War ends
St Nicholas Church bells ring out to celebrate the end of the war.
229 soldiers from the town of Sevenoaks lost their lives, according to the names recorded on the First World War Memorial.
Greatness House in the 1800s
1919
Greatness House blown up
Greatness house is purchased by a film company and blown up in a dramatic explosion for a scene in a movie about the First World War.
Greatness House in the 1800s
1919
Greatness House blown up
Greatness house is purchased by a film company and blown up in a dramatic explosion for a scene in a movie about the First World War.
Lucy Deane Streatfeild
1920
Lucy Deane Streatfeild
Lucy Deane Streatfeild is one of the first women appointed as a Justice of the Peace, serving on Kent County Council.
The trailblazer from Westerham had a career as one of the first female factory inspectors in the United Kingdom, and was a key figure of the suffrage movement.
During the First World War, she served on the executive committee of the Women’s Land Army.
Lucy Deane Streatfeild
1920
Lucy Deane Streatfeild
Lucy Deane Streatfeild is one of the first women appointed as a Justice of the Peace, serving on Kent County Council.
The trailblazer from Westerham had a career as one of the first female factory inspectors in the United Kingdom, and was a key figure of the suffrage movement.
During the First World War, she served on the executive committee of the Women’s Land Army.
Churchill bricklaying at Chartwell
1922
Churchill and Chartwell
Winston Churchill purchases Chartwell in Westerham as his family home.
He enjoyed painting in the gardens, and has been quoted “A day away from Chartwell is a day wasted.”
Churchill bricklaying at Chartwell
1922
Churchill and Chartwell
Winston Churchill purchases Chartwell in Westerham as his family home.
He enjoyed painting in the gardens, and has been quoted “A day away from Chartwell is a day wasted.”
Hand painted poster by Felix Tomlin for 'Ambrose Applejohn's Adventure' (1928), a performance by the Sevenoaks Players © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1923
Sevenoaks Players
The Sevenoaks Players perform their first show.
Hand painted poster by Felix Tomlin for 'Ambrose Applejohn's Adventure' (1928), a performance by the Sevenoaks Players © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1923
Sevenoaks Players
The Sevenoaks Players perform their first show.
Sevenoaks Liberal Party membership card © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1923
Politics
Ronald Williams of the Liberal party becomes the first and only non Conservative Member of Parliament to represent Sevenoaks, just for one year.
1923
Politics
Ronald Williams of the Liberal party becomes the first and only non Conservative Member of Parliament to represent Sevenoaks, just for one year.
Sevenoaks Liberal Party membership card © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Sam King playing at Knole Park Golf Club as an adult
1924
Knole Park Golf Club opens
A 14 year old Sam King works as a caddie on the day of the first tee at Knole.
King had grown up just outside the boundary of the park. He went on to become a British Professional champion golf player.
Sam King playing at Knole Park Golf Club as an adult
1924
Knole Park Golf Club opens
A 14 year old Sam King works as a caddie on the day of the first tee at Knole.
King had grown up just outside the boundary of the park. He went on to become a British Professional champion golf player.
Protestors in Riverhead (1926)
1926
Speed Limit
Protestors in Riverhead demand the enforcement of a speed limit. At this time an uncomfortable mix of motor vehicles and horse drawn carriages are using the A21 road.
Protestors in Riverhead (1926)
1926
Speed Limit
Protestors in Riverhead demand the enforcement of a speed limit. At this time an uncomfortable mix of motor vehicles and horse drawn carriages are using the A21 road.
Maud Grieve and her employees in her herb drying shed © Buckinghamshire Council
1926
Seal Herb Farm
Dorothy Hewer establishes a herb farm in Seal, with the assistance of herbalist and writer Maud Grieve.
Hewer specialised in medical herbs and developed a new sub-species of ‘Seal lavender’. She published two books and helped design a herb garden at Knole.
Maud Grieve and her employees in her herb drying shed © Buckinghamshire Council
1926
Seal Herb Farm
Dorothy Hewer establishes a herb farm in Seal, with the assistance of herbalist and writer Maud Grieve.
Hewer specialised in medical herbs and developed a new sub-species of ‘Seal lavender’. She published two books and helped design a herb garden at Knole.
1927 rail accident in Sevenoaks
1927
Rail crash
A serious railway accident occurs when an express passenger train is derailed just south of the bridge across Shoreham Road at Riverhead. 13 people are killed.
Following the accident, Southern Railway withdrew all the remaining ‘River’ class tank engines as they were deemed unstable.
1927 rail accident in Sevenoaks
1927
Rail crash
A serious railway accident occurs when an express passenger train is derailed just south of the bridge across Shoreham Road at Riverhead. 13 people are killed.
Following the accident, Southern Railway withdrew all the remaining ‘River’ class tank engines as they were deemed unstable.
Commemorative carving with tulip design © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Newspaper photograph of the wrecked plane
1927
Passenger plane crash
A Dutch aircraft crashes at Underriver near Sevenoaks on its way from Croydon to Rotterdam.
The mechanic is killed. The pilot and seven passengers are injured.
The 1920s was a new era of aviation, with the start of long distance commercial flights.
Newspaper photograph of the wrecked plane
Commemorative carving with tulip design © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1927
Passenger plane crash
A Dutch aircraft crashes at Underriver near Sevenoaks on its way from Croydon to Rotterdam.
The 1920s was a new era of aviation, with the start of long distance commercial flights.
The first Woodlands Holiday Camp brochure, illustrated by Greves Mellor (1929) © Barbara Benedict
1928
1928 Woodlands Holiday Camp opens
Greves and Winifred Mellor start a holiday campsite on the outskirts of Sevenoaks.
The first Woodlands Holiday Camp brochure, illustrated by Greves Mellor (1929) © Barbara Benedict
1928
1928 Woodlands Holiday Camp opens
Greves and Winifred Mellor start a holiday campsite on the outskirts of Sevenoaks.
Postcard of the Venetian Bedroom in Knole House, illustrated by Charles Essenhigh Corke and printed by J. Salmon, 1898
1928
Virginia Woolf
Virginia Woolf publishes ‘Orlando’, a novel inspired by the family history of her friend and lover Vita Sackville-West. The main character is a poet who lives through centuries, and changes sex from male to female.
In the book she describes the Venetian room at Knole House, ‘The room… shone like a shell that has lain at the bottom of the sea for centuries and has been crusted over and painted a million tints by the water…’.
The later film adaptation of Orlando starred Tilda Swinton, who went to West Heath School in Sevenoaks.
Postcard of the Venetian Bedroom in Knole House, illustrated by Charles Essenhigh Corke and printed by J. Salmon, 1898
1928
Virginia Woolf
Virginia Woolf publishes ‘Orlando’, a novel inspired by the family history of her friend and lover Vita Sackville-West. The main character is a poet who lives through centuries, and changes sex from male to female.
In the book she describes the Venetian room at Knole House, ‘The room… shone like a shell that has lain at the bottom of the sea for centuries and has been crusted over and painted a million tints by the water…’.
The later film adaptation of Orlando starred Tilda Swinton, who went to West Heath School in Sevenoaks.
George Bennett in the library (1923) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Local Studies Library
1929
Sevenoaks Museum
Librarian George Bennett and local historian Dr Gordon Ward establish a museum in Sevenoaks Library.
George Bennett in the library (1923) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Local Studies Library
1929
Sevenoaks Museum
Librarian George Bennett and local historian Dr Gordon Ward establish a museum in Sevenoaks Library.
Portrait of Vita Sackville-West by William Strang (1918) © Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery
1930
Vita Sackville-West
Vita Sackville-West publishes her novel The Edwardians, a critique of aristocratic society inspired by her childhood at Knole.
Vita was part of a collective of progressive writers and thinkers known as the Bloomsbury Group, which included her cousin Edward Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, with whom she had a close relationship.
'Pastoral' by Graham Sutherland © The estate of Graham Sutherland
1930
Graham Sutherland
Artist Graham Sutherland lives at Willow Cottage, Eynsford.
Sutherland’s landscape work was influenced by Samuel Palmer, who had lived in Shoreham a century before. He also painted portraits of local figures, including Edward Sackville-West, whose picture can be seen in Knole house, and Winston Churchill. Churchill deemed his portrait so unflattering that his wife had it destroyed after the public presentation.
'Pastoral' by Graham Sutherland © The estate of Graham Sutherland
1930
Graham Sutherland
Artist Graham Sutherland lives at Willow Cottage, Eynsford.
Sutherland’s landscape work was influenced by Samuel Palmer, who had lived in Shoreham a century before. He also painted portraits of local figures, including Edward Sackville-West, whose picture can be seen in Knole house, and Winston Churchill. Churchill deemed his portrait so unflattering that his wife had it destroyed after the public presentation.
Dr James Harrison in the bird room in 1950 © The Harrison Institute
1930
Harrison Zoological Museum
Dr James Harrison sets up a zoological museum on St Botolph’s Road, specialising in mammals and birds.
It is now the Harrison Institute, a biodiversity research centre.
Dr James Harrison in the bird room in 1950 © The Harrison Institute
1930
Harrison Zoological Museum
Dr James Harrison sets up a zoological museum on St Botolph’s Road, specialising in mammals and birds.
It is now the Harrison Institute, a biodiversity research centre.
Drawing of Otford High Street by Vincent New for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, 1932
1930s
Vincent New
Prolific local artist and printmaker, Vincent New, is commissioned to produce a series of drawings for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, showing locations across the district.
A collection of his work is now held at Sevenoaks Museum.
Drawing of Otford High Street by Vincent New for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, 1932
1930s
Vincent New
Prolific local artist and printmaker, Vincent New, is commissioned to produce a series of drawings for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, showing locations across the district.
A collection of his work is now held at Sevenoaks Museum.
The Majestic Cinema, Sevenoaks (1945)
1935
1935 Royal Crown Hotel demolished
Once the social hub of Sevenoaks, the failing hotel is demolished and replaced by a cinema.
The Majestic Cinema, Sevenoaks (1945)
1935
1935 Royal Crown Hotel demolished
Once the social hub of Sevenoaks, the failing hotel is demolished and replaced by a cinema.
Alvan T. Marston in 1955 at Barnfield Pit © Wymer Collection
1935
Swanscombe skull discovered
400,000 year old human remains are discovered in Swanscombe by Alvan T. Marston, a dentist with an interest in archaeology, as he searches the Barnfield Pit for flint tools.
This ancestor to the Neanderthal species becomes known as the Swanscombe woman. Swanscombe is one of only two sites in Britain which have yielded Paleolithic human fossils, the other being Boxgrove Quarry in West Sussex.
Alvan T. Marston in 1955 at Barnfield Pit © Wymer Collection
1935
Swanscombe skull discovered
400,000 year old human remains are discovered in Swanscombe by Alvan T. Marston, a dentist with an interest in archaeology, as he searches the Barnfield Pit for flint tools.
This ancestor to the Neanderthal species becomes known as the Swanscombe woman. Swanscombe is one of only two sites in Britain which have yielded Paleolithic human fossils, the other being Boxgrove Quarry in West Sussex.
Southern Railway electric train stopping at Chelsfield from Sevenoaks
1935
Electrification of the railway
The first electric train runs from Sevenoaks to London.
Southern Railway electric train stopping at Chelsfield from Sevenoaks
1935
Electrification of the railway
The first electric train runs from Sevenoaks to London.
Paper bag from Young's Department Store © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1936
Young's department store
The Rose and Crown Inn is demolished and replaced with Young’s department store, designed by Percy Potter, an expansion of the drapery shop that Robert Comfort had opened over a century before.
Young’s was the first and only department store in Sevenoaks.
K3492 Sewing pin tin from Young's department store
Paper bag from Young's Department Store © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1936
Young's department store
The Rose and Crown Inn is demolished and replaced with Young’s department store, designed by Percy Potter, an expansion of the drapery shop that Robert Comfort had opened over a century before.
Young’s was the first and only department store in Sevenoaks.
K3492 Sewing pin tin from Young's department store
Wartime civilian radio (1944) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1939
Second World War
Britain declares war against Nazi Germany.
Wartime civilian radio (1944) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1939
Second World War
Britain declares war against Nazi Germany.
Breeches worn by member of the Kent Women's Land Army, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1939
Womens Land Army
The WLA, which was set up during the First World War, is reformed. Women were required to provide the new rural workforce whilst men were in the armed forces. As importing food would now be dangerous, it was necessary to grow more food at home.
Photograph and documents relating to Winifred Turley whilst a member of the Kent Women's Land Army © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Breeches worn by member of the Kent Women's Land Army, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1939
Womens Land Army
The WLA, which was set up during the First World War, is reformed. Women were required to provide the new rural workforce whilst men were in the armed forces. As importing food would now be dangerous, it was necessary to grow more food at home.
Photograph and documents relating to Winifred Turley whilst a member of the Kent Women's Land Army © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Second World War RAF uniform, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1940
RAF Biggin Hill
A decoy airfield is constructed at Lullingstone to protect the Royal Air Force fighter station at Biggin Hill.
Pilots from Biggin Hill squadron shot down the most German planes during the Battle of Britain.
Second World War RAF uniform, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1940
RAF Biggin Hill
A decoy airfield is constructed at Lullingstone to protect the Royal Air Force fighter station at Biggin Hill.
Pilots from Biggin Hill squadron shot down the most German planes during the Battle of Britain.
Second World War incendiary bomb, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1940
Sevenoaks under attack
Sevenoaks suffers its first serious bomb attacks on 17th October. Shops on the High Street are hit, as well as houses in Buckhurst Lane and Lime Tree Walk.
Second World War incendiary bomb, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1940
Sevenoaks under attack
Sevenoaks suffers its first serious bomb attacks on 17th October. Shops on the High Street are hit, as well as houses in Buckhurst Lane and Lime Tree Walk.
Bomb damage on Wickenden Road
1945
Wickenden Road hit
In March, V2 rockets hit Wickenden Road, destroying several houses.
Bomb damage on Wickenden Road
1945
Wickenden Road hit
In March, V2 rockets hit Wickenden Road, destroying several houses.
Map of bomb hits in Kent, published by the Sevenoaks News © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1945
War ends
St Nicholas Church bells ring out to celebrate the end of the war on the 2nd September.
Official records show that Shoreham in Sevenoaks rural district was the most bombed village in the entire country.
Victory Celebrations Guidebook (1946) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Map of bomb hits in Kent, published by the Sevenoaks News © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1945
War ends
St Nicholas Church bells ring out to celebrate the end of the war on the 2nd September.
Official records show that Shoreham in Sevenoaks rural district was the most bombed village in the entire country.
Victory Celebrations Guidebook (1946) © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Wartime Fieldworkers Sacking Carrots, Ridley (1941) by Thomas Hennell. Image thanks to Sim Fine Art.
1945
Thomas Hennell missing in action
In November, the war artist from Ridley is presumed dead after being captured by Indonesian separatists in Burma.
Hennell was a highly talented watercolourist and passionate documentarian of rural working life in Kent and other parts of England, illustrating several books on the subject.
1945
Thomas Hennell missing in action
In November, the war artist from Ridley is presumed dead after being captured by Indonesian separatists in Burma.
Hennell was a highly talented watercolourist and passionate documentarian of rural working life in Kent and other parts of England, illustrating several books on the subject.
Wartime Fieldworkers Sacking Carrots, Ridley (1941) by Thomas Hennell. Image thanks to Sim Fine Art.
Dental practice designed by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott (2020)
1945
Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott
Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott is buried in Edenbridge cemetery. The gravestone reads, ‘Nature he loved and next to nature art’.
The famous Arts and Crafts architect had designed several buildings and homes in the Sevenoaks district, including the dental practice on Dartford Road, where Winston Churchill had his dental check ups.
Dental practice designed by Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott (2020)
1945
Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott
Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott is buried in Edenbridge cemetery. The gravestone reads, ‘Nature he loved and next to nature art’.
The famous Arts and Crafts architect had designed several buildings and homes in the Sevenoaks district, including the dental practice on Dartford Road, where Winston Churchill had his dental check ups.
Crockham Hill Youth Hostel (1958) © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1946
Crockham Hill Youth Hostel opens
Youth Hostels offer affordable accommodation to young working people on a scale never seen before, providing access to leisure pursuits and the countryside.
Crockham Hill Youth Hostel (1958) © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1946
Crockham Hill Youth Hostel opens
Youth Hostels offer affordable accommodation to young working people on a scale never seen before, providing access to leisure pursuits and the countryside.
Paper bag from Sevenoaks Bookshop © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1948
Sevenoaks Bookshop
The Sevenoaks Bookshop is established at 147 High Street when Basil and Frances Krish buy what was John Richardson’s secondhand bookshop.
The shop remains in its original location, with the same book and oak leaves logo designed in 1949 by book illustrator Robert Ashwin Maynard.
Sevenoaks Bookshop logo designed by Robert Ashwin Maynard
Paper bag from Sevenoaks Bookshop © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1948
Sevenoaks Bookshop
The Sevenoaks Bookshop is established at 147 High Street when Basil and Frances Krish buy what was John Richardson’s secondhand bookshop.
The shop remains in its original location, with the same book and oak leaves logo designed in 1949 by book illustrator Robert Ashwin Maynard.
Sevenoaks Bookshop logo designed by Robert Ashwin Maynard
Hilda and Nina Wilks place green briquettes onto a barrow for transfer to the hackyard (1960) © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1950s – 1960s
Chiddingstone Causeway Brickyard
The brickyard established by Owen Wilks in 1924 is now run by two women, his daughters Hilda and Nina.
Hilda and Nina Wilks place green briquettes onto a barrow for transfer to the hackyard (1960) © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1950s – 1960s
Chiddingstone Causeway Brickyard
The brickyard established by Owen Wilks in 1924 is now run by two women, his daughters Hilda and Nina.
Portrait of Dr James Blomfield, founder of the Sevenoaks Society © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1952
Sevenoaks Society
The Sevenoaks Society is founded, under its original name of the Sevenoaks Preservation Society.
Portrait of Dr James Blomfield, founder of the Sevenoaks Society © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1952
Sevenoaks Society
The Sevenoaks Society is founded, under its original name of the Sevenoaks Preservation Society.
Illustrated colour postcard of the Seven Oaks, published by Salmon © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1955
Seven oaks re-planted
The oak trees on Tonbridge Road dating from the 18th century are felled, due to suspected disease. Replacement trees are planted by Vita Sackville-West and the chairwoman of Sevenoaks District Council.
Illustrated colour postcard of the Seven Oaks, published by Salmon © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1955
Seven oaks re-planted
The oak trees on Tonbridge Road dating from the 18th century are felled, due to suspected disease. Replacement trees are planted by Vita Sackville-West and the chairwoman of Sevenoaks District Council.
Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve
1956
Wildlife reserve created
A wildlife reserve is created at Bradbourne, the first example in Britain of a former commercial gravel pit being developed for the benefit of conservation.
The visitor centre now owned by Kent Wildlife Trust is named after Jeffrey Harrison, son of zoologist Dr James Harrison, both of whom initiated the project.
Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve
1956
Wildlife reserve created
A wildlife reserve is created at Bradbourne, the first example in Britain of a former commercial gravel pit being developed for the benefit of conservation.
The visitor centre now owned by Kent Wildlife Trust is named after Jeffrey Harrison, son of zoologist Dr James Harrison, both of whom initiated the project.
Lowering a harpsichord from the workshop, © Emily Feldberg
John working on the case of harpsichord F2 in 1958, © Emily Feldberg
1957
Feldberg's Harpsichord Workshop
John and Ann Feldberg rent premises on London Road, Sevenoaks, and convert it into a harpsichord workshop.
As well as building instruments according to Neupert specifications, John began developing his own designs and creating his own instruments.
The first was delivered on 6
th
December 1958 for the price of £357.
Lowering a harpsichord from the workshop, © Emily Feldberg
John working on the case of harpsichord F2 in 1958, © Emily Feldberg
1957
Feldberg's Harpsichord Workshop
John and Ann Feldberg rent premises on London Road, Sevenoaks, and convert it into a harpsichord workshop.
As well as building instruments according to Neupert specifications, John began developing his own designs and creating his own instruments.
The first was delivered on 6
th
December 1958 for the price of £357.
Memorial plaque in Emily Jackson House, now a nursing home.
1958
Hip hospital closes
The children’s hospital on Eardley Road closes and becomes a geriatric wing for Sevenoaks Hospital.
Memorial plaque in Emily Jackson House, now a nursing home.
1958
Hip hospital closes
The children’s hospital on Eardley Road closes and becomes a geriatric wing for Sevenoaks Hospital.
Digging out the swimming pool at Croft lane School © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1963
School Swimming Pool
Edenbridge is the first primary school in Kent to have a swimming pool.
Digging out the swimming pool at Croft lane School © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1963
School Swimming Pool
Edenbridge is the first primary school in Kent to have a swimming pool.
Telegram communications between Winston Churchill and Sevenoaks Urban District Council on his 80th birthday, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1964
Churchill's final years
Due to ill health, Winston Churchill moves out of Chartwell to his flat in London.
He went on to be voted the ‘Greatest Briton of all time’, a memorial to his strong leadership in the Second World War.
Churchill’s legacy is not without controversy. He was not shy in expressing views of white racial superiority and, in the final years of Empire, he demonstrated a disregard for the lives of indigenous populations.
Portrait of Winston Churchill on a photographic printing plate, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Telegram communications between Winston Churchill and Sevenoaks Urban District Council on his 80th birthday, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1964
Churchill's final years
Due to ill health, Winston Churchill moves out of Chartwell to his flat in London.
He went on to be voted the ‘Greatest Briton of all time’, a memorial to his strong leadership in the Second World War.
Churchill’s legacy is not without controversy. He was not shy in expressing views of white racial superiority and, in the final years of Empire, he demonstrated a disregard for the lives of indigenous populations.
Portrait of Winston Churchill on a photographic printing plate, © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
The Beatles in Knole Park (1967), © The Jane Bown Estate
1967
The Beatles
Renowned portrait photographer Jane Bown is walking her dog in Knole Park when she comes across the biggest band in the world.
She starts taking pictures with her 35mm Pentax camera as the famous four from Liverpool film their promotional video for the song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’.
The Beatles in Knole Park (1967), © The Jane Bown Estate
1967
The Beatles
Renowned portrait photographer Jane Bown is walking her dog in Knole Park when she comes across the biggest band in the world.
She starts taking pictures with her 35mm Pentax camera as the famous four from Liverpool film their promotional video for the song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’.
Postcard for Woodlands Holiday Camp (1950s) © Barbara Benedict
1968
Woodlands Holiday Camp closes
Greves and Winifred Mellor retire after 40 years.
In its lifetime, Woodlands developed from tented accomodation to offering wooden chalets. It provided an affordable alternative to large seaside camps such as Butlins. Amenities on site included a swimming pool, tennis court, mini-golf and ballroom.
Postcard for Woodlands Holiday Camp (1950s) © Barbara Benedict
1968
Woodlands Holiday Camp closes
Greves and Winifred Mellor retire after 40 years.
In its lifetime, Woodlands developed from tented accomodation to offering wooden chalets. It provided an affordable alternative to large seaside camps such as Butlins. Amenities on site included a swimming pool, tennis court, mini-golf and ballroom.
Hever Castle and Tudor Village under water © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1968
Floods
Heavy autumn rain causes flooding. The ragstone wall of Knole Park acts as a dam until it breaks and sends water down Seal Hollow Road in Sevenoaks.
In Edenbridge, Hever Castle and Tudor Village are flooded.
Hever Castle and Tudor Village under water © Eden Valley Museum Trust
1968
Floods
Heavy autumn rain causes flooding. The ragstone wall of Knole Park acts as a dam until it breaks and sends water down Seal Hollow Road in Sevenoaks.
In Edenbridge, Hever Castle and Tudor Village are flooded.
Crampton Road brewery
1970s
Crampton Road brewery building is demolished
Crampton Road brewery
1970s
Crampton Road brewery building is demolished
Blow's Grocery Shop, Sevenoaks (1937)
1974
Kathleen Blow retires
Blow’s grocery shop in Sevenoaks reaches the end of 93 years as a family business.
The shop was established by Joseph Blow in 1881, later taken over by his daughter Kathleen.
Kathleen Blow in Blow's Grocery Shop, Sevenoaks
Blow's Grocery Shop, Sevenoaks (1937)
1974
Kathleen Blow retires
Blow’s grocery shop in Sevenoaks reaches the end of 93 years as a family business.
The shop was established by Joseph Blow in 1881, later taken over by his daughter Kathleen.
Kathleen Blow in Blow's Grocery Shop, Sevenoaks
Gordon Anckorn (c.1960)
1978
Gordon Anckorn
Gordon Anckorn, photographer and journalist for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, retires after 50 years.
He collected and preserved historic photographs as well as taking them, and much of the Anckorn collection is now held in our Local Studies library.
Gordon Anckorn (c.1960)
1978
Gordon Anckorn
Gordon Anckorn, photographer and journalist for the Sevenoaks Chronicle, retires after 50 years.
He collected and preserved historic photographs as well as taking them, and much of the Anckorn collection is now held in our Local Studies library.
John Felberg reproduction Goujon harpsichord, © Emily Feldberg
Harpsichord workshop on Bradbourne Road, © Emily Feldberg
1982
Harpsichord workshop closes
After 20 years, during which passed the untimely death of John Feldberg and an upgrade of premises to Bradbourne Road, manager Ann Feldberg and master craftsman Peter Whale start to wind down business…
The workshop had produced 272 instruments, sold all over the world and played by famed musicians.
John Felberg reproduction Goujon harpsichord, © Emily Feldberg
Harpsichord workshop on Bradbourne Road, © Emily Feldberg
1982
Harpsichord workshop closes
After 20 years, during which passed the untimely death of John Feldberg and an upgrade of premises to Bradbourne Road, manager Ann Feldberg and master craftsman Peter Whale start to wind down the business in Sevenoaks…
The workshop had produced 272 instruments, sold all over the world and played by famed musicians.
Programme for the STAG opening season © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1982
The Stag
The Stag Theatre opens in the old cinema building, where the Royal Crown Hotel once stood.
Invitation to the STAG opening season © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
Programme for the STAG opening season © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1982
The Stag
The Stag Theatre opens in the old cinema building, where the Royal Crown Hotel once stood.
Invitation to the STAG opening season © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
M25 protest t-shirt (1980s)
1986
M25
The M25 or London Orbital Motorway is completed.
During construction, the section between Swanley and Sevenoaks was the most controversial. Protestors argued it would damage an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
M25 protest t-shirt (1980s)
1986
M25
The M25 or London Orbital Motorway is completed.
During construction, the section between Swanley and Sevenoaks was the most controversial. Protestors argued it would damage an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Knole After the Storm by Diana Atkinson © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1987
The Great Storm
In October, six of the seven oak trees on the vine cricket ground are blown down in the great storm. Around half of the trees on Sevenoaks Common are also lost due to the extreme weather.
Mr and Mrs Frank May in Stonewall Park with a 1000-year-old oak tree which survived the storm © Eden Valley Museum Trust
Knole After the Storm by Diana Atkinson © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1987
The Great Storm
In October, six of the seven oak trees on the vine cricket ground are blown down in the great storm. Around half of the trees on Sevenoaks Common are also lost due to the extreme weather.
Mr and Mrs Frank May in Stonewall Park with a 1000-year-old oak tree which survived the storm © Eden Valley Museum Trust
Orbital LP 'Chime', © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1989
Orbital
The pioneering electronic music duo from Sevenoaks release their first record.
Paul and Phil Hartnoll named their act after the M25 motorway, which was central to the early rave scene.
Orbital LP 'Chime', © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
1989
Orbital
The pioneering electronic music duo from Sevenoaks release their first record.
Paul and Phil Hartnoll named their act after the M25 motorway, which was central to the early rave scene.
The cattle market in Sevenoaks town centre before it was moved in 1918
1999
Cattle market closes
The cattle market in Sevenoaks town centre before it was moved in 1918
1999
Cattle market closes
K3331 Portrait of a woman by John Downton (1900s)
2000
John Downton Awards
The John Downton Awards for young artists in Kent is established, in memory of the artist from Erith who passed away in 1991.
Downton’s sister Hilda, also an artist, was responsible for setting up the award. She later provided for the Downtown Music Room at Walthamstow Hall School in her will.
K3331 Portrait of a woman by John Downton (1900s)
2000
John Downton Awards
The John Downton Awards for young artists in Kent is established, in memory of the artist from Erith who passed away in 1991.
Downton’s sister Hilda, also an artist, was responsible for setting up the award. She later provided for the Downtown Music Room at Walthamstow Hall School in her will.
Kelly Holmes at Athens 2004 © Russell Garner
2004
Dame Kelly Holmes
Kelly Holmes from Hildenborough becomes the first athlete to win two gold medals at the same Olympic Games since 1920, and the first British woman to win two Olympic gold medals.
She is named Sports Personality of the Year.
Kelly Holmes at Athens 2004 © Russell Garner
2004
Dame Kelly Holmes
Kelly Holmes from Hildenborough becomes the first athlete to win two gold medals at the same Olympic Games since 1920, and the first British woman to win two Olympic gold medals.
She is named Sports Personality of the Year.
Closing down sale poster from the Sevenoaks branch of Woolworths © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
2009
Woolworths closes down
Woolworths, one of Britain’s oldest chain stores, closes down in the midst of a global financial crisis.
The Sevenoaks branch was on 126 High Street.
Closing down sale poster from the Sevenoaks branch of Woolworths © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
2009
Woolworths closes down
Woolworths, one of Britain’s oldest chain stores, closes down in the midst of a global financial crisis.
The Sevenoaks branch was on 126 High Street.
Sarah's 'Big Ben' design is linked to her art installation at Gloucester Road station, inspired by the use of underground stations as air raid shelters in WWII. Big Ben, a survivor of the war, is a symbol of resilience.
2011
Sarah Morris
Artists are commissioned to create posters for the upcoming Olympic Games in London.
Sevenoaks born Sarah Morris and Tracey Emin from Margate both design posters for the Paralympic Games.
Sarah's 'Big Ben' design is linked to her art installation at Gloucester Road station, inspired by the use of underground stations as air raid shelters in WWII. Big Ben, a survivor of the war, is a symbol of resilience.
2011
Sarah Morris
Artists are commissioned to create posters for the upcoming Olympic Games in London.
Sevenoaks born Sarah Morris and Tracey Emin from Margate both design posters for the Paralympic Games.
Route map for olympic torch relay through Sevenoaks district © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
2012
Olympic and Paralympic Games
The London 2012 Olympic torch relay travels through Sevenoaks.
Sevenoaks is one of the host councils for the games, with the Paralympic road cycling events taking place at Brands Hatch circuit.
Route map for olympic torch relay through Sevenoaks district © Kent County Council Sevenoaks Museum
2012
Olympic and Paralympic Games
The London 2012 Olympic torch relay travels through Sevenoaks.
Sevenoaks is one of the host councils for the games, with the Paralympic road cycling events taking place at Brands Hatch circuit.
Invitation card to civil partnership ceremony for a lesbian couple in Maidstone. Civil partnerships were introduced in 2004 for same sex couples as an alternative to marriage. They can now be upgraded to marriage under the new law.
2013
Same sex couples gain the right to marry
Same sex marriage becomes legal in the United Kingdom after 396 MPs vote to pass the bill.
Invitation card to civil partnership ceremony for a lesbian couple in Maidstone. Civil partnerships were introduced in 2004 for same sex couples as an alternative to marriage. They can now be upgraded to marriage under the new law.
2013
Same sex couples gain the right to marry
Same sex marriage becomes legal in the United Kingdom after 396 MPs vote to pass the bill.
2016
Brexit
The government holds a referendum to let the public to decide whether the country should leave the European Union. Roughly 55% of voters in the Sevenoaks and Swanley constituency vote to leave, a slightly larger majority than the 51% overall result.
The idea of a European Union was conceived in the 1950s, with the aim of ending the frequent wars between neighbouring countries, and to bring about economic integration.
2016
Brexit
The government holds a referendum to let the public to decide whether the country should leave the European Union. Roughly 55% of voters in the Sevenoaks and Swanley constituency vote to leave, a slightly larger majority than the 51% overall result.
The idea of a European Union was conceived in the 1950s, with the aim of ending the frequent wars between neighbouring countries, and to bring about economic integration.