Gravesham History and Nature

A teenage boy has been charged with multiple offences following a disturbance at a place of worship in . We were called to the Sri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara at 8.10pm on Thursday 11 July 2024.

It was reported there was a disturbance inside the premises and that two women were assaulted outside the building shortly afterwards. Our officers attended the scene where a local teenage boy was arrested. Nobody was seriously injured during the incident and our constables recovered a bladed weapon.

On Saturday 13 July, a 17-year-old boy was charged by our investigators from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, using or threatening unlawful violence, threats to kill, threatening a person with a bladed weapon and possessing a bladed article in a public place. The teenager was remanded in custody to appear before Maidstone Crown Court later the same day.

North Kent Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Angie Chapman, said: ‘We understand local people’s concerns about this incident which we are treating as isolated. Our patrols will remain in the area for reassurance and we would like to thank the community for their continued support and assistance.’

Incident at Gravesend Gurdwara

A person has been arrested by Kent Police on suspicion of attempted murder, after entering the gurdwara and creating an incident in one of the Darbar Halls. We can confirm that the incident happened after Sukhasan and Guru Granth Sahib Ji was not present in the Darbar Hall.

The Gurdwara is cooperating fully with Kent Police who are treating the incident very seriously, with the District Commander on site to support whilst the investigation is ongoing.

The person was spotted by the Gurdwara security team and police were called immediately.

We will update the Sangat over the next few days as more information becomes available.

On behalf of Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara (Gravesend) Management Team

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How did Gravesend get its name? Here’s a video from Thames TV to tell you more about what they found out in 1975

How did Gravesend get its name? | 1970s Gravesend | Kent | A Town Called... | 1975 Monty Modlyn Asks he question. " How did Gravesend get its name?First Shown: 13/08/1975If you would like to license a clip from this video please e mail:arch...

Auto Shenanigans covers the A226 road closure between Swanscombe and Norfolk. He talks about what may have caused the collapse, how the 30ft high road came to be, and when the road might reopen.

The Main Road That's COLLAPSED And CLOSED FOR OVER A YEAR! - A226 Swanscombe & Northfleet Kent Buy Us A Coffee - https://paypal.me/autoshenanigansFind us on:Twitter - - Auto ShenanigansIt looks to...

A video documenting a road trip from Dartford to Sheerness, as recommended in a Michelin guide book from the 1923. The documenter stops off at Gravesend Town pier and West Street pier.

Great British Road Journeys - Kent - Dartford to Sheerness Ep. 18 Buy Us A Coffee - https://paypal.me/autoshenanigansFind us on:Twitter - - Auto ShenanigansFor today's road j...

Video of Northfleet Carnival from 1991. The route originally started near the General Gordon Promenade, Gravesend and ended in Wombwell Park, Northfleet

NORTHFLEET CARNIVAL 1991 'These Are The Days' is available for download & streaming.For full version go to https://youtu.be/NIzI0V62RJoPerformed by Darren Webb.Composed by D Webb & M...

A 1667 Dutch map (possibly a 19th century copy) depicting the Thames Estuary and River Medway. Dutch ships are depicted as attacking Sheerness Dockyard and making their way to to Chatham, to later attack the anchored Royal Navy and to tow away the Royal Charles flagship.

The map notes local towns such as:

Gravisfend
N.flete
Denton
Milton
Shorne

The Dutch fleet attempted a raid further up the Thames, west of Gravesend, in June 1667, but did not approach Gravesend Blockhouse due to the threat posed by its guns. The river was also blocked by blockships and five fireships, which were later moved to the River Medway

Some information boards regarding the history of Rosherville have popped up at the new housing development along Crete Hall Road, Northfleet

WARNING! Racist Iconography, Slurs and Views

From the archives of Thames News, comes a 1981 newsreel regarding the Gravesend Racial Attacks.

It's rather obvious to some that Gravesend isn't a Medway town, but the voice over reporter obviously was given incorrect information.

1981 GRAVESEND RACIAL ATTACKS THAMES NEWS 14.9.81 GRAVESEND RACIAL ATTACKS The Anti-Nazi League publish a report on the growing numbers of racial attacks in tte area and warn that Gravese...

Despite all the road networks and car parks available to vehicles, there is surprisingly only one drive-thru available in the whole of Gravesham.

The drive-thru belongs to Tim Hortons, at their branch in the Imperial retail park, Thames Way. The site was re-developed and opened in late 2022, after previously being a branch of Pizza Hut.

There have been plans in the past to develop drive thru systems in Gravesham, such as at the Tollgate hotel site for a new McDonald’s branch and services back in 2015, but plans have amounted to nothing due to appeals.

2015:
http://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/news/plans-for-a-mcdonalds-on-40592/

2016: https://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/news/amp/bp-tries-again-with-proposal-100207/

2019: https://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/news/amp/controversial-hotel-plans-to-be-discussed-at-meeting-211540/

2020: https://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/news/amp/220k-spent-on-security-for-derelict-hotel-220038/

£220k spent on security for derelict hotel Hundreds of thousands of pounds have been spent on a security guard and equipment for a hotel which is part of controversial development plans.

Historic moment for Gravesham’s woodland, greenfield sites, shorne and chalk villages, and A2 carriage way

Skanska lands £450m Lower Thames Crossing deal Contractor preferred bidder for Kent Roads contract on delayed scheme

This is all that remains of the "Rosherville Hotel," Burch Road, Northfleet, which was built about 1850, as part of Jeremiah Rosher's scheme to develop the Rosherville Gardens, which at one time were reputed to be the best in Europe.
Gone are the days of bear pits and archery lawns, and all that remains is the sound of bulldozer and falling rubble, which will soon give way to industrial development, some of which has already started.
One of the most famous visitors of the hotel was the queen of Victorian theatre, Lily Langtry.
From about 1905 the hotel was unoccupied, and from 1923 it was let as flats. As far as can be traced it was let as such in 1938.
There was a pub below the hotel called the "Rosherville Shades," which closed about the same time as the hotel.

(http://www.dover-kent.com/2014-project-a/Rosherville-Hotel-Northfleet.html, July 2023) excerpt from the Reporter, 10th April 1970.

Fire-less locomotive? Say hello to Imperial No. 1! A Gravesend legend! 🚂🧻 An engineering essential for any factory which manufactures highly combustible stock. This fantastic locomotive, housed at the National Railway Museum, lived its whole working life at Imperial Papermill in Gravesend from 1956 to 1978 (https://www.kentrail.org.uk July 2023)

https://youtu.be/aym2V73J-mE

A Steam Engine with No Fire? Fireless Locomotive Imperial No. 1 | Curator with a Camera How does a steam locomotive work without fire? Find out all about the trials and tribulations of 'fireless' locomotive technology and the story of Imperial N...

On the junction of Northfleet High Street and Factory Road stands the Portland’s building - 'venue for all occasions'. It was once formerly the Factory Club (later known as the Blue Circle Club) which was opened on 31 July 1878 and built at the expense of Thomas Bevan (architects Parr and Strong). It took three years to build at a cost of £ 11,000 and was built in honour of Bevan's eldest son, Robert's, coming of age. Before 1945, the club was open to all members of the public and was the cultural centre of Northfleet. Two halls, games room, sports facilities, a library and the headquarters of the Northfleet Choral Society plus numerous other local societies were all accommodated. Amongst various other features added over the years was a bowling green and an outdoor swimming pool that was opened in 1907.

The long forgotten Bevans/Northfleet cement works deep water jetty today vs the same jetty when it was operated by APCM in 1930

What have you tried asking a chat gpt to write about?

I’ve just asked it to write 1000 words about Gravesend. It’s a little incorrect in places but otherwise very impressive.

“Gravesend – A Fascinating, Historic Town in Kent

Gravesend is an ancient town positioned in the north-west part of Kent County. It is located on the south bank of the River Thames and is the gateway to Europe from London. Historically, Gravesend was a significant port town, due to its location near London, and has long played a crucial role in the country’s transportation network. The town is home to many beautiful historical sites and a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved for generations.

History of Gravesend

Gravesend has a long history dating back to the Roman times. It was known as ‘Gravesham’ or ‘Grafsund’ in Old English, meaning “at the end of the grove”. This name makes perfect sense as the town was located where the River Darent meets the River Thames, which was once heavily wooded. The town is also believed to have been a Saxon settlement, and there were a few Anglo-Saxon churches in the area.

During the Tudor period, Gravesend became a significant port town, serving as a stopping point for ships sailing from London to the rest of Europe. It was also used as an embarkation point for soldiers and pilgrims heading to the continent. The town was a vital transportation hub during this time and had a regular ferry service to Tilbury.

In 1617, King James I granted a charter to the town, giving it the right to hold markets and fairs, which helped to boost local trade. Gravesend continued to flourish in the 18th century, and many notable residents, including William Pitt the Elder, lived in the town.

Culture and Attractions in Gravesend

The town of Gravesend is rich in culture and has many attractions that visitors can explore. One of the most prominent is the Gravesend Heritage Quarter, which features several historical buildings, such as the St. George’s Church, the Royal Terrace Pier, and the Clocktower. The Clocktower is a community landmark that was built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee.

Another popular attraction is the Gravesend Promenade, which runs along the riverfront and offers stunning views of the Thames. Visitors can stroll along the promenade and take in the sights of passing boats and ships, watching seagulls and other marine life.

Gravesend also offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. The town has several parks, including the Woodlands Park, Milton Chantry Park, and The Retreat. These parks are perfect for picnics, walks, and bike rides.

The town’s proximity to London means that visitors can also take advantage of the city’s famous museums, galleries, and other attractions. For example, the Tate Modern, British Museum, and National Gallery are all just a train ride away from Gravesend.

Food and Drink in Gravesend

Gravesend has a diverse range of food and drink options for visitors to explore. There are plenty of pubs, bars, and cafes in the town that serve hearty meals, snacks, and drinks. The Three Daws is one of the oldest pubs in the town and dates back to the 15th century. Nowadays, it offers a wide range of food and beverages, including real ale.

There are several Indian restaurants in Gravesend, including the Nawaab and the Everest Inn. The Nawaab has been serving authentic Indian cuisine for over 30 years and is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The Everest Inn offers a contemporary twist on traditional Indian dishes, using locally sourced ingredients.

Italian cuisine is also well-represented in the town, with restaurants such as Il Padrino, the Villa Rosa, and the Da Vinci offering a range of delicious dishes. Whether you’re looking for pizza, pasta or seafood, you’re sure to find something to your taste in Gravesend.

Transportation in Gravesend

Gravesend is conveniently located near London and is well connected to the capital by road and rail. There are three train stations in the town: Gravesend, Northfleet, and Ebbsfleet. Trains run regularly from the stations to London, taking approximately 30 minutes to reach the city.

Visitors can also drive to Gravesend from London along the A2/M2 motorway. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Conclusion

Gravesend is a fascinating, historic town in Kent that is rich in culture and heritage. Visitors to the town can explore its many attractions, including the Gravesend Heritage Quarter and the Promenade, and enjoy a wide range of food and drink options. The town’s proximity to London and excellent transportation links make it a perfect day trip destination for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital.”

Steam locomotives at work in Swancombe cement works (1960s). This was where William Aspdin’s Portland cement was further improved by Isaac Johnson. Swanscombe works was the largest cement works in the UK between 1846 to 1926. The site began life in 1825 and closed in 1990.

Happy 70th jubilee to the Queen

During this time of pomp and circumstance, please remember there are lots of families and people struggling financially who wish they had the spare money or food to throw a party, put up bunting, eat regular meals or heat their homes.

If you have the opportunity to do so, please donate to one of the Queen’s chosen charities or donate to a food bank.

Photo from 1 year ago. St Andrews Garden, Gravesend

“4th May 1936 Amy Johnson set out from Gravesend in Kent in Percival Gull Six G-ADZO on her final record-breaking flight, making a roundtrip to Cape Town and back in seven days, 23 hours and 46 minutes. As you can see below she made it!” (toplandinggear via twitter, 2022)

https://heritagecalling.com/2019/03/14/7-treasures-of-the-thames-estuary/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin.com&utm_campaign=brand

7 Treasures of the Thames Estuary The Thames Estuary has been the traditional entry point for imports and exports, both human and material, for centuries.

Where is Pocahontas (Amonute/Matoake/Rebecca Rolfe) buried?

It is often noted by those with little knowledge of the exact historical circumstances, that her burial site is below that of the current statue dedicated to the famed princess.

Pocahontas passed away on 21st March 1617 whilst on voyage back to her birth land. She was brought ashore at the last port of call on the river Thames, at Gravesend, and laid to rest in the St George’s church chancel.

Due to a burial record error and a fire, which caused severe damage to the original church and in 120 houses in 1727, her burial location was lost. A new church was built in 1732.

In 1923, an attempt to locate her body was attempted by exhuming all known graves. Unfortunately her body was never found and is still lost.

There have been many calls over the years to have her body be returned to her birth land. This is easier said than done, considering no one knows where she’s buried.

https://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/news/amp/the-real-story-of-the-woman-who-inspired-disney-princess-263088/

An interesting addition to the “lost” village of Dode

The UK's newest 'Neolithic site' unveiled It looks about 6000 years old but owners hope a new 'Neolithic' long barrow will become an important spiritual site for future generations.

Is it dangerous to live in Gravesham?

Potentially, in terms of exposure to Radon. Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas. It is formed by the radioactive decay of the small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in all rocks and soils.

About 1% to 3% of homes in Gravesham are exposed to Radon levels above recommended by the UK Health Security Agency.

Further information, like how to detect Radon, does it affect my house price, and how detrimental is it to my health, can be found here: https://www.ukradon.org/information/

A Riverboat Service Between Kent and Central London Is One Step Closer Uber Boats is looking to expand.

Gravesend & Northfleet players preparing for their FA Cup tie with Sunderland in 1963 (image: Charlie Ley)

In 1918, the end of the First World War was marked with much celebration by the persons of Gravesham.

"End of war celebrations included civic ceremony at the Clock Tower, thanksgiving at St. George’s Church and the burning of an effigy of the Kaiser. The town was again illuminated" - Discover Gravesham

In 1919, The Paris Peace Conference took place. The victorious Allies after the end of World War I set the peace terms for the defeated Central Powers

"Peace treaty signed in June amid wild scenes. Peace celebrations held at Gravesend and Northfleet." - Discover Gravesham (http://www.discovergravesham.co.uk/gravesend-chronology/1917-1924.html)

You may have had a Punjabi family member who served in WW1

https://amp-theguardian-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/amp.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/10/records-of-320000-punjab-soldiers-from-first-world-war-uncovered

Records of 320,000 Punjab soldiers from first world war uncovered Military files of Indian troops left unread in Pakistan museum for 97 years go online