hi dave glad you got back to me . my e mail is
    dennis494@btinternet.com and my phone no 01622676324 evenings

Hi,Denis.
Yes,I remember you.Can you give me your e.mail address so I can reply directly to you.
Buster.

hi dave thomas /buster.
 do you remember me . we used to be the mator bike boys in the 60 s
 den /colin /you /fly . i lived in southbush lane would like to hear from you denis

 hi davi /buster do you remember me we used to be the local bike gang denis colin hilburne you

The gang from Tudor Grove, 1941 - could any leave a message for me ie John Waldron, Teddy Spicer, Frankie Day, Mollie Day, Jean Bilbow, Alan Allgood or Clive Williams.

is there a surname / nickname or rough address ?
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Odd and random question, trying to track someone down who lives in rainham, their name is Jason, and they are about 20ish. Dont know if anyone can help, but its owrth a shot.

Hi Linda
i am not John but i was his neighbour at no 26 where he lived at no 28 John now lives on the Isle of Sheppey just a dozen or so miles away and i believe he works for BT.
I see him now and then and he always looks well

kind regards

Mark Hollinsworth
< replied-to message removed by QT >

I was reading back through some messages and found one from McGregor family. I remember Johnny McGregor from when my parents ran the Nursery in Rainham behind the Co-op. He was part of the gang who used to meet up down at the Rec. I think the leader of the gang was Mick Day who was always in trouble. Is that the same McGregor family? Where is Johnny now? I am in Australia. Linda@peek.ws

CM

Presumably what you referring to is this message posted some time ago - "Hi i used to live with my family at 44 berengrave lane. I am just wondering if that house is still there? Also i know many bad things happend there (prior to us living there and during our lives there) so i'm wondering if that fate carried on or if someone now happily lives there". I am unaware of any sinister history to the house that I went past today and which looked like all the others there, with a very pretty robinia tree in the garden behind it. Hopefully any bad spell has been broken.

davidauger1@hotmail.com

What happend at 44 Berrengrave Lane, it is mentioned at the start of this page?

Many thanks

Jason, Thos WILLS stayed at 172 Station Road until the 1955 Kellys Directory, but was not there for the following edition in 1957. As far as possible living relatives are concerned, the best chance appears to be R Wills Tel: (01634) 848902 Gibraltar Fm Ham La, Gillingham, ME7 3JJ. Although this is beyond the other side of Rainham, farmers do tend to be less mobile than most people - so you might strike lucky and find there is some connection.

yes ive found them on the census right back to 1841, just wanting photos and stories and find living relatives mainly

According to my 1937 Kellys Directory, there was still a Thos WILLS at 172 Station Road even later. Have you looked up your ancestors in the various Census returns yet? It is also possible to access the Rainham parish registers through Cityark (the particular link being http://cityark.medway.gov.uk/query/results...archWords=&DateList).

For those who do not realise it, if you hit the "subscribe" box and put your email address in, you will automatically receive an email each time there is a new post on the site....It costs nothing and saves you the time of visiting the site to see if there are new messages.

searching for any info on the Wills family of Rainham. my Great grandfather was Fred Wills emmigrated to New Zealand in 1910. he was a brickmaker and his father Robert Wills was a brickmaker living on station road who died in 1930. would love to hear from anyone who has any info

jasonswills@hotmail.com

Sunburst Books are probably not geared up for sending postcards abroad, so I suggest you contact Rainham National Map Centre the printers of them at email address rainham@mapsnmc.co.uk. They are on the upstairs floor at Station Road and probably more used to posting out items. The postcards are a bargain at 40p each, and the printers also supply A5 and A4 prints for £1.85 and £3.50.

Should they be unable to assist you, then let me know and I can probably arrange something myself.

Just out of interest, what were the names of your great great grandparents?

My Great Great Grandparents were married in Rainham. What beautiful pictures! I have centuries of family history in Kent. I live in Canada can you please tell me where to order these pictures?
Much appreciated!

Lori

While I am not the source of the postcard pictures received by Dave, his message does remind me that a number of old images are being published to raise funds for repairs to Rainham church, most of which may be viewed in proof copy format at http://thenet.uk.net/content.php?_p_=879. They can be purchased through Sunburst Books, 21-23 Station Road.

Just received in the post three postcard pictures of Rainham.Sender gave no name.Was this you Roger ?.Will be back in contact soon.
Dave.

Hi Dave, I remember your Dad and Mum and I remember the Off-License...
Wasn't your Dad an ex Royal Marine ? My parents owned the newsagents in the High St, corner of Ivy Street. I also went to Orchard St school for a while but eventually went to a naval college. I remember Kemsleys, the Coop & Rules Newsagency next door to Kemsleys.
I was back in Rainham about 3 years ago and it has really changed a lot, not for the better in my view !! I am 68 and figure I must be about 4 years older than you which would explain why I do not remember you at Orchard st....Drop me a line at green7654@embarqmail.com
If your Dad was an ex Royal Marine then I am pretty sure that he knew my Dad well.

My mum and dad run the off licence at the top of station road(I think number 20)and next door was a corn merchants.We lived above the shop during the 50s/60s and I went to Orchard Street School around 1956/1960.I can remember Kemsleys the butcher across the road(sorry about spelling), coop at the top of the road and the old primary school were I first went to school.To my mates I was always called Buster.Does anybody remember me ?.I have not been back to Rainham in 50 years so any news would be great.
Dave{Buster)Thomas.

Hi Eve,
Thank you for your message about the Lampard family. I found a possible match with Betty Lampard b.1932 in Medway area of kent but do not have any further details.
Thanks for letting me know.

KmsG9Q

K8eeM3

Hi all
yes it is me
We moved from the square in '82 to Twydall
Mum is still around ...Dad passed away 10 years ago now
All the family are still present
Tim lives with mum in Teynham Janet in Basildon,Sue and Jackie in Rainham and Eddie in Gravesend,I am in Hempstead and Barbie is in Teynham down the road from Mum
How are all of you ?

Mark Hollinsworth
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Yes, phone Hamish and Barbara on 310011

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hello mark hollingsworth we used to live at 28 sunderland square, think you lived two doors from us, do you remember glen stuart ross john tina, mum is dawn and dad was jim?

Andrew For Action Forum, Barbara Mackay Miller Tel. 01634 231307
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Agoogle, is your shop in Rainham?

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Rainham Bookshop has copies of Bygone Kent. Margaret Dunn

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< replied-to message removed by QT >

 HELLO LYNDA REGARDING YOUR ENQUIRIES OFF THE LAMPARD FAMILLY, I ATTENDED ARDEN STREET SCHOOL IN GILLINGHAM KENT IN THE 1940/46 ERA AND SAT WITH BETTY LAMPARD, HER FATHER HAD BEEN A FOOTBALL PLAYER HE LOST HIS SIGHT IN AN ACCIDENT SO WAS PLACEN IN A PUDLIC HOUSE WHICH HE RAN FOR MANY YEARS. LIVED IN RAINHAM FROM AUGUST 1954 TO AUGUST 1966 AND DO NOT RECALL ANY PEOPLE LIVING LOCALLY.

Hello, I am interested in getting copies of pictures of Berengrave lane, would anyone be able to point me in the right direction of where i can get hold of some.

Thannks

I am researching the Lampard family who lived in Rainham during the 1700 and 1800s. William Lampard is shown on 1841 census as living with his son in Rainham. His son, John, was a blacksmith and the address shown is Upper Rainham Street (no number).
John's son Henry is also shown as a master blacksmith on the 1851 census, address given is 20 Rainham Street.
If anyone has any information about the blacksmith's business or indeed anything to do with the Lampard family I would love to hear from them.

When you start dog training, you need know how to train a puppy can use dog behavior training and dog training tips.

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WHOOPS GRAHAM SORRY ABOUT THE MISTAKES I AM VERY KNEW AT THIS TYPING LARK!

EVE BATESON
             LOVELY TO HEAR FROM YOU GRAHAM AS YOU SAY A VOICE FROM THE PAST! I AM STILL IN TOUCH WITH CON AND FRED KENARD AT NO. 84 AND ALSO WROTE TO PAM AND MARSHALL CASE WHILE THEY WERE ALIVE, WE ALL MOWED INTO OUR HOMES IN THE SAME WEEK THAT WAS AUGUST 1954,MY FAMILY EMIGRATED TO AUSTRALIA AUGUST 1966 MAINLY AS OUR DAUGHTERS DOCTORS ADVICE. WE HAVE BACK THREE TIMES OVER THE YEARS,HAVE YOU AVER VISITED YOUR SISTER IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA?

William, I have been away from England since 1982, but I can tell you that there was a Medhurst (Ernie I believe) who lived at 29 Ivy Street in Rainham during the 40s and 50s...He was a taxi driver.
Don't know if this is of any help, but good luck.

Does anyone know of any Medhurst families still in the Rainham area as my Great Grandfather (Charles Medhurst) and two of his brothers came to Canada from there in the early 1900's. These three brothers married three sisters named Smeeth who were also from this area. Several of the other brothers and sisters went to Australia around the same time and there was no communication with them after this. I am sure there was at least one sister still in the Rainham area during W.W.2 as some of my Uncles visited her while they were serving overseas.

Hi Eve yes I remember you living in william street that seems a long time ago.Ihope you and your family are well.My sister also emigrated to Australia some twenty four years ago.She lives serpentine western Australia.Icatch up with you with some news shortly.

The current vicar is Canon the Rev Alan Vousden at present on study leave for three months. Parish mag availalbe in church, at 'Newsmarket' in the precinct and at Rainham GPO. also at the contact point and at 'Sunburst' bookshop in Station Road. Margaret Dunn
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

CAN ANYONE PLS TELL ME THE NAME OF THE VICAR FOR ST MARGARET'S CHURCH IN RAINHAM, MANY THANKS

I am coming to Rainham in October for a couple of weeks to do a trip down Membory Lane. I used to live at with my (now ex) husband Allan's parents at 97 Solomon Road in 1961/62 & then we moved to Otterham Quay Caravan Park until we emigrated to Australia in 1967. Have very fond memories of Rainham & Otterham Quay & wondered if there are any people that remember those place at around that time.

HELLO GRAHAM,
      DO YOU REMEMBER ME IT IS A LONG TIME SINCE I LIVED IN WILLIAM STREET, NUMBER 84 THE LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT,I REMEMBER YOU AND YOUR PARENTS VERY WELL.I LIVE IN QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA NOW, WOULD ENJOY HEARING FROM YOU TO CATCH UP ON RAINHAM NEWS. IT WAS A PLEASENT SURPRISE TO SEE YOUR NAME ON QUICK TOPIC LAST NIGHT
                       EVE BATESON NEE GRACE. (topcat1@internode.on.net)

Maurice Tadman was a good footballer he played for Charlton, Gillingham and finish his playing career at plymouth.In the old days Pam we had plenty of local shops to choose from, times have changed and not for the better.

I think anybody is priviledged to be living in Rainham. Where is William Street? Oh as I write I was down there on Thursday and saw it off Station Road. I popped into the fish shop on my way down but wasn't able to buy a fish as no space to carry it. Also I was so glad to see a butcher's shop next door. They are few and far between these days. If only we could have the days of the small shops back and the sense of community, Rainham has all that still despite it's growth in population. I'm not wrong am I, Graham? Please forgive me but is Maurice Tadman famous?

Edited by author 04-27-2009 05:04 PM
George & Maurice Tadman lived at 72 william street Rainham Their parents family home their father syd was a lovely man always giving helpful tips on football.Ihad the previlage to play football in the street with maurice on many occasion after he came home from training.Ihave lived in the street all my life.

Rainham is in my bones.

I hope to be down again on Thursday to do some more.

No, Margaret, I haven't heard of that one but will see if I can find it. Do you know the whole poem?

Thanks. Do you know the poem that begns "Loviest of trees the cherry now is hung with bloom along the bough"? Margaret
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

I had a great time in Rainham today. It was very hot at 4.30pm! I did quite a bit of filming but commented quite a bit so not sure what would interest people. My clips will be up on youtube so you will need to register and subscribe if you would like to see them. The blossom is out and is strikingly beaufiful.

Beecher_1
Do you know where your Frederick Alexander was born?
My Grandmother had a brother called Fredrica Alijos Charlesworth who lived in Rainham and could have Anglasized his name to Frederick Alexander.

Also I have the birth Certificates for Thomas Henry Evenden born 1847 Gillingham Medway Kent. Mother was Eliza Evenden formerly Harris. Father William born 1819.
Mary Ann Still born 1851 Rochester Medway, father Issac Still from Delce Lane Rochester. Mother Mary Ann Still formerly Fletcher.
Any information be greatly appreciated.

Cheers!

Thomas Henry Evenden's father was William Evenden.
Mary Ann Still's father was Isaac Still.
Anyone information on these familys would be appreciated
Thanks!
Lori
PS. Thank-you for the tip on suscribe Roger!

Hello All, I have the marriage licence for my great great grandparents Thomas Henry Evenden and Mary Ann Still. They were married on April 26 1868 at the Parish in Rainham Kent. Anyone know how I can get more information on these church records?
Looks like the Vicar was A.J. Pearseman or close to that.
Thanks!
Lori

And for anyone that does not know....If you hit "Subscribe" top left of main page, and enter your email address, you will automatically be notified of any new postings....This is very helpful, as most of us forget to check the list on a regular basis.

I went to school with a Tony Couchman in Rainham during the 40s & 50s But have no idea if he is any relation.
As for Silling in Kent, it is most likely "Selling" which is a small Kent village about 4 miles SE of Faversham.
Hope this helps.

I am trying to trace my family tree. My greatgrandmother was an Ann Couchman, born in 1835 in Rainham. I believe her father was named Rainer C.
Ann married Henry Coe, born 1837 at Silling in Kent, ( I have been unable to trace this place.)
Henry was a gardener.
They later moved to Henley where Ann died in 1898, having born three sons.
Does the name Couchman mean anything to anyone? I would be grateful for the tiniest snippet of information.
Many thanks.

I have traced my grandfather back to Rainham, Kent. His name was Frederick Alexander Charlesworth. I have noticed on the site
www.rainham-history.co.us, they list a house on Roberts Street (now Road) as Frederick Charlesworth. I am wondering if anyone has any information??

Any info would be thrilling! Thanks much!

Linda

i am joyce fagg was at rainham sec school in orchard st my best friend was joyce back in 1957 to 1961 any body got new of those year or photo

I am related to the Simmons family from Gillingham and Rainham. Back in the 1600 - 1700 they owned a farm named Christmas Farm, now Christmas Street. They also owned East Court Farm. The records are in the Will section on the Public Records, Kew.

Susie,
check out the following site www.rainham-history.co.uk
It has a mine of information and a lot of great pics.

Yes. Contact Rainham Book Shop 17-23 Station Road Rainham ME8 7RS 01634 371591 shop@rainhambookshop.co.uk. Gillingham and Chatham libraries have local history sections. they also have access to old newspapers. Margaret Dunn
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hi Susie..i think that many of us can contribute some history for you but the best way is to visit the library or go to the bookshop in Station Road in Rainham and ask for a book of history on the medway towns..i hope that helps you

Mark

Edited by author 02-06-2009 10:20 AM
hello, i'm wondering whether anyone has any information about history of rainham (kent) because i am doing a project on it and i can't find ANYTHING!

please write onto the message board if you have any think for me.

Many Thanks
Susie.

ELAINE....I knew your Mum and I guess your Grandma as well...My parents owned the newsagents at the top of Ivy Street A R Green & Son (See previous posts) I remember your mum and your grandma coming into the shop every night of the week ! In fact I remember your mum being pregnant with you. Freds Cafe(Rainham Cafe)I thought was owned by Fred Price in the 40s and was situated at 126 High Street on the corner of where you used to go up to the old oasthouses. Pilchers Greengrocers was on the adjacent corner.
Please write me if you read this, as I am sure your mum will remember me(I am assuming she is still living ?) I was born in 1941 so I am 12 years younger than what your mum would be. My Email address is green7654@embarqmail.com

Happy Christmas to all Rainhamites. Lee if you are still there please get back to me. I would love to hear from you again re Pump Lane and those there who knew my family. Hope you are well.

i am doing my family tree

was looking for the father of william martin taylor born 1844 in rainham in kent

or any connections

I wonder if you are able to help. I am seeking some information relating to a Pre-War Charlton player by the name of George Tadman, around the later 1930’s.

I am in a relationship with his granddaughter and wonder if you know his residence address whilst playing for Charlton, I am purchasing some memorabilia and would love to top it off by showing her where her grandpa lived, as she is from Bristol & I live in Welling, Kent. If you are able to offer any information that would be fantastic.

Regards
John

Edited by author 10-22-2008 05:27 AM
need info on army and navy tavern in gillingham on reinham rd about the 1900 and propriters name if possible

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Edited by author 10-08-2008 02:18 PM
Hi Doug, Rainham Mark, if I am correct, was a little place just past Rainham along the London Road, not on the train line. It comes between Rainham and Gillingham on that road. I used to live their myself as I child. Hope it helps.

Thanks Graham yes that would be good of you. Just out of curiosity really as i am a show jumper myself & brakes my heart to see the place so run down & just sitting there....such a shame the council let it close because it could have been huge and good for the local area attracting spectators etc...hey ho though i suppose

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My dad (Chris Mannerings)actually did the roof on the equestrian centre down lower rainham. As I understand it, the problems were to do with the road being wide enough, but I will ask him and get back to you.

Graham

I used to live in Rainham Mark,But visiting from Canada I noticed as the train went by there was no Rainham mark. What happened

Edited by author 08-22-2008 12:27 PM
Hi, my mum was born at 37 ivy street in 1929 (eileen akhurst) my dad (stan gardner)son of alfred gardner who owned 'freds cafe' in the 1940's and stood where hidsons forecourt is :( in the highstreet at the top of ivy street any memories/photos would be great.... many thanks Elaine

Hi, im having a conversation and a friend is saying that rainham used to be an acient burial ground, shes saying thats the reaso why there has been some strange things going on in some houses ,can anyone clear this up for me cause im a sceptic , thanks

Hi
Im new to this site and do not live in the area. I am tracing my family tree and have found that in 1900 Lucy Medlam married William Hines and they lived at 35 Holland St, Christchurch. If anyone has any information please post a message

Many thanks
Sam

My Brother and I recently photographed some tunnels in Bredhurst. Does anyone have any information on these tunnels like when or why they were built.

Pictures can be found here http://www.rainham-history.co.uk/rainham_g...Bredhurst%20Tunnels

Many thanks

silo2k4@hotmail.com

Edited by author 08-02-2008 05:55 PM
Hi Paul Bennett

I have a photo of a house at the bottom of Pump Lane but don't know if it is the one you are talking about. What side of the lane was it on?
Regards
Pam

Hi,
Does anyone know any history to the old Matthew's Equestrian Centre just off Lower Rainham Road. I have just discovered it & find it all very interesting...all i know is someone called Tony Rocco built it about 20 years ago & shut down because the council wouldnt let a round go through???
I'd love any more detail.
Hannah

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Edited by author 06-15-2008 06:30 PM
Hi all, just a quick note, My G.Grandmother Clara Wood nee Read lived in the little cottage at the bottom of pump lane and i jsut wondered if anyone have any information on this cottage or any photos.
Regards Paul

Oh how sentimental all this is. My heart bleeds for the old Rainham. I've lived in Australia for 40 years but my heart never left Rainham. Did the Tottman's have a sheet metal working shop in Maidstone Road?

Hi Lees, I hope you see this message as I don't have any contact details from you. My friend and I are planning to come down a week on Friday so if you are around I'd love to see you and possibly meet the others who remember my family. My email address is: Desktopgem@aol.com
Looking forward to hearing from you before we come. Pam.

I'm so pleased to find this site! I attended Orchard Street Girls School in the early 60's and would love to hear from Jackie Mudge, Linda Decker, Christine Sultana - all from Rainham. I'd also be interested to hear from any Cooper's or Farahar's still living in the area, my Gt Grandparents being one of each!

Hi Maria (m47) My Great Grandfather John William Mudge and his wife Lived at a Large house called Westfield House in Christmas Street which was demolished several years ago (at the end of the road on RHS looking East)They lived there after they left Johns Place, East Court, Lower Rainham until they bought East Court Farm in 1917. According to the Census for several years he live at 6 Christmas Street with his Mother. The present No 6 is a modern building on the opposite of the road but reading these letters makes me wonder if Christmas Street had different numbering at that time and that his No 6 was actually Westfield House. There was shop, possibly now demolished when the dual carriageway was built, on a corner somewhere near the Strand which had his name John Mudge on the tiles underneath the Shop window.This was his butchers shop. If anyone has any old photos of Westfield House or Johns Place would love to have copies please. I lived with my Great Grandmother Ann Mudge at East Court arm during the war years and have many memories of the area during that time.

Linda Peek.

Hi Linda...I certainly remember Hutchinsons nursery, having been sent there for tomatoes etc many times by my mum....I was born in 1941 at 133 High Street...My parents were the newsagents A.R Green and Son which I ended up running for a while in the early 60s. I now live in Florida.
Your post brings back many childhood memories as I also spent many happy hours at the Rainham Rec and up Church path as we called it...Great place for scrumping cherries I seem to remember !! What a shame all those beautiful orchards are now no more :(
The guy who worked at the horse stables was Frank Andrews I believe, and I can picture him even today walking and riding the horses in the high street there. The old bakery I believe was Mosely's and later Walklyns and I remember buying yesterdays stale cream buns for a penny !!
Do you remember Bardens Greengrocery shop that was at the top op the Co-op entrance there ? The same entrance that led down to the nursery.
I do not remember you personally, but then again you are 11 years younger than I.....Would love to hear from anyone else that lived in Rainham during the 40s and 50s.

Peter Hales.

Hi Peter, have only just seen your message....I do remember the Naylors at 1 Ivy street and also there neighbors the Wills family at number 3
Please write me at green7654@embarqmail.com

Hi Dorothy

Have only just seen your message that you posted last August as I had forgotten all about this site. I most certainly do remember your Mum and Dad (Ralph?) and Ann your sister....Didn't you have a sister Ruth as well ? Please write me at green7654@embarqmail.com
Would love to get to talk with you

Hi Pam

Yes I do remember Dennis with his red hair which was curly if I remember correctly and he was quite short - though I imagine he has grown!! What was your other brother called? I used to be a member of Friends Reunited but I think my membership has lapsed. I keep in touch with Margaret Leckie who now lives outside Paris. I often wonder what happened to people like Linda Lopez and Anita Shadrack. Do you keep in touch with anyone? My email address is linda@peek.ws

Edited by author 01-24-2008 02:58 PM
If you have come directly to this forum you may be interested to view the Rainham History website at http://www.rainham-history.co.uk

I meant Mr Leckie not Mr Kirk. Can't see how to edit the content. Please forgive me.

Hi Linda

If you were born in 1952 you will have just missed my brother Dennis. He was born in 1953 and another in 1950. You may have been in Dennis's class. He had red hair. I don't remember anyone called Diana but have you seen the photos on Friendsreunited.co.uk? If she was in my class she may well be on a photo with me. What was her surname? I had to miss a year as I was the youngest when I started with my birthday in September. I had to go away for some time and when I came back Mr Kirk put me in the next class up. Then I was the oldest. I would love to give you my email address. If you are a member of Friendsreunited I could contact your there.

Hi Pam
I was born in 1952 and went to St Mary's until I went to Chatham Grammar in 1963 or 1964 (can't remember!) I started St Mary's when I was four and a half, so I was too young to do the 11+ without repeating a year, so I did Mr Kirk's class twice. I got married in St Thomas's in May 1975. What were your brothers names? I don't remember you - you must have been a couple of years behind me, but my sister Diana was also born in 1954 so maybe you remember her?

Hi Linda

When did you go to St Mary's? When were you married at St Thomas? Do you remember any of us Bygraves? I used to go to St Mary's also from 1959 I think to 1963. Do you have any photographs of the school? We also used to attend St Thomas's church for Mass etc. My brothers were altar boys there.

Hi Mark James
Your cousins Georgre & Maurice lived William St both very good footballers and played for Charlton Atheltic
I do hope I have'nt confused you as their were a lot of Tadmans in Rainham when I was a boy
CSM

I do remember the Nursery and have bought plants etc from them.
Your Uncle Tom was a keen Fisherman & very good worker in his workshop with Wood I was born down Station Rd and still live in Rainham but have been around the world when I was a Marine Engineer on Tankers
My oldest Daughter is a teacher at St Marys a task she enjoy
So linda Peek can reach me via C-manley @ sky.com

I used to live at the nursery behind the Co-op in Rainham which was run by my Dad, Ken Hutchinson and by my grandfather before him. My Uncle Tom also had a carpenter's workshop at the top of the property. Does anyone remember it? It was in between Ivy Street, Station Road, Hothfield Road and the High Street. Everyone came to buy their tomatoes, cucumbers and cut flowers.

In about 1964 we moved to Meresborough which is where my parents still live, though my Dad has retired and someone rents the nursery from him. The nursery in Rainham was sold and turned into a housing estate. I have fond memories of growing up in Rainham - playing down at the rec, in the trees up the church lane and in the old bakery (now a nursing home) when it closed down and remained empty for several years. A lot of the places where we played would be considered too dangerous these days, but we had a lot of fun. The guy who worked at the horse stables opposite the church (now a gym) told me many years later that he almost had a heart attack every time he saw me hanging by my legs way up high in a big tree just up the church lane! After we moved to Meresborough my pastimes changed and I have fond memories of going to the Central and another place at the top of Pump lane for what today's kids call clubbing. My Dad used to pick me up afterwards at the laundrette in Station Road, because it was always open and warm inside and there were no buses to Meresborough. I went to St Mary's in Gillingham, then Chatham Grammar and got married at St Thomas's in Rainham. I now live in Canberra Australia.

My Great Grandfather William Sampson Charlesworth was the manager of the F. C. & Co. Falcone Cement Works at Rainham in 1891. Does anyone have any details of this works please?

I have a copy of 'Gillingham Chronicles'. If you'd like it please keep it. A donation to St Margaret's Church would be fine, or to any charity of your choice. Please phone 01634 231924. Margaret Dunn to collect from central Rainham.
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Hi Lees, yes they did in 1963. Who remembers us? It would be great to be in contact with them. A friend and I are planning a trip to the area in the spring when the blossom comes out. So perhaps we could meet up? That would be great. Gosh it's amazing how you bought the house you were born in. I don't know what it is but Pump Lane is very special. Perhaps it's being born there or been there as a child?

regards,
Pam

Hi Pam,
Yes i live a few doors away from 185,i was born in pump lane in 1971,grew up there, moved away then bought the house i was born in.As i said i knew the last 2 owners..
 Pump farm is still there although no farm shop remains,they have built several new houses on the old coach site,and the house on the road outside pump farm was knocked down and replaced with a new detatched house,that has only just been sold.

Having spoken to a few people in the lane,your family is remembered,am i right in thinking that your family did a house swap from the Manchester area?
Please feel free to contact me,

Regards

Hi Pamela

You can do a search for the Gillingham Chronicles on www.amazon.co.uk or
www.abebooks.co.uk. I have noticed that the book is out of print according to Bazaar Books. There are two copies only on these two websites. I hope you manage to get one.

Regards
Pam

Hi ,
I'm sorry not to have responded before re Gillingham Chronicles. I am interested in obtaining a copy of the book because
my grandfather A.J. Smith owned two grocery shops in Gillingham. One in Mill lane no 53 in 1928 and then he moved to 53 Station road in 1930. Could you please tell me where I could obtain a copy of the book
Thanks for your trouble
Pam Burnett
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Hi does anyone know what used to be at christmas street gillingham kent years ago.I would like to know how long this road has been here many thanks!!

Hi Lees

Do you live near 185? When did you move there? I'd be interested in knowing what they have done to Pump Farm? Last time I visited somebody seemed to have bought it and built on it, am I right? I find that such a shame but I did manage to see it as it was a few years ago. If you look on www.webshots.com for Pump Lane you will see some photos that I took of it there. I am also sorry that 185 had been painted a redish colour at the bottom half and most of the garden now concrete. I have photos of some of us when we were small in the back garden.

Pam Bygrave
 i live in pump lane now,i knew the last 2 owners of 185 pump lane....small world

Does anybody have information on the Goldswain family (Upchurch) I beleive they may have had a pub called the Lord Stanley

There is a book out called The Gillingham Chronicles for those interested in it's history. I got it today. An incredible work. The book covers Rainham as well. The question someone raised about Pump Lane is answered in the book. The author is Ronald A Baldwin. Published in 1998.

Edited by author 12-06-2007 02:07 PM
Thank you, Maragret. How long have you been in Rainham? My mother is buried in Woodlands Cemetery but I don't often get along there. After she died two of us lived in a children's home at 46 Patrixbourne Avenue which is in Rainham Mark, I believe. We went to St Mary's RC Primary school in Gillingham.
Thanks again,
Pam

Fascinating! Have passed it on to residents here who know the older times. Margaret Dunn
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I was born at 11 Bedford Avenue in 1954, shh!! near St Thomas Catholic Church. One day our garden fell in leaving a huge hole that my older brother could have fallen into. It was like an individualised earthquake I am told. We had to move after that to 185 Pump Lane, I think that was about 1957. There were my parents John and Joyce Bygrave and their six chlldren. We lived by the railway bridge in Pump Lane and used to wave at the passengers on those green trains so if you waved back, thank you. My mother died of a tragic accident on my father's motor scooter in April 1961. This was reported on the headlines of the Kent local papers. Don't tell anyone but after she died and we had begun to fend for ourselves we, the six of us, used to treck single file down under the bridge towards the farms and orchards. My brother especially scrumped for cherries and ended up with pocket's full while I was the lookout. At 6 and 7 years old I think I did a good job. I hardly ever got a cherry though. My brothers loved going down Bloors Lane to the seawall. It was quite spooky there and that really strong seaweedy smell was a great welcome. Three of us kids were redheads so somebody out there might remember us. If you do remember the Bygrave's please let me know. You may also remember the Tanner's shop opposite the Catholic Church near Bloors Lane, the Standan's who lived in Bloors Lane and the Duncalf's who I think lived in Upchurch. I'd love to hear from anybody who may remember us. This is a great site, thank you. A couple of years ago I was in Rainham and took a bus ride. I was so amazed and pleased that the bus conductors had the same equipment and tickets they used to have when we went to school. It's so nice to see some things do not integrate with today's way of living. Keep Rainham Rainham. I now live in Hove, East Sussex.

To Roger Green.
My maiden name was Cross and my Father had the jewellers next door to the Post Office. We knew all your family and my sister and I were friends of Wendy and spent quite a lot of time in your home. Love to hear about all the rest of your family. I now live in Suffolk, England.

hi there, I'm Barbara :)
I stumbled on this forum while researching my 19th Century family history in Rainham and I was wondering if some local historians could help. I have connections to most of the population of the creek end of Station Road 1840 - 1900, including the following families - Wheatley, Mark, Partridge, Kidney/Kitney, Green, Whitnall & Reader. CityArk has been a wonderful resource for all the births & burials, which took place at St Margaret's. However, none of the marriages took place there. Births & Deaths are recorded at Milton, Marriages at Medway. Can anybody here suggest an alternative venue which fits the criteria?
Many thanks
Barbara

Edited by author 08-20-2007 12:41 PM
Hi Steven..thanks for that ..sadly i am after the images of the square when it was built..any help will be very appreciated

Mark Hollinsworth - try Google Local. Zoom in on the UK, then to Rainham. Use the 'Hybrid' button to get the satellite/map version, and you can zoom right into the housing that is now there. And my first school I ever went to - Meredale Infants!.

Hi all...i lived all of my chidhood in Sunderland Square in Rainham and loved every minute of it.It was just a great place to live.Sadly it is all flattened and has been redeveloped now.Has anyone got or could they advise me where to get some aerial pictures of the area ...i have tried the civic centre and the library but to no avail..Any help would be greatly appreciated.....Mark Hollinsworth

My grandfather Arthur Jesse Smith often known as A.J owned a grocery shop
on the corner of Station Road and Enfield/Henfield Road No 53 during the early thirties. The shop was called The Station Road Stores.He apparently refurbished both shop fronts. Can anybody tell me what happened to the shop? Was it bombed or demolished to make way for new roads or buildings. I have recently visited the area and I think No.53 is now a mid terrace house.
Any information gratefully received!
Pamela Burnett

wrt to the enquiry by Sidney Tottman (message 28) my parents moved to 2A Roberts Rd on New Years eve 1951. During the time of their residence I did not spend much time there due to being in the RAF. But from memory I am certain that there was no evidence of Anderson shelters in either the garden of 2A or 4, I occasionaly dug much of the garden for Dad while on leave.

Has anyone seen the previous enquiry I made on behalf of my wife Pamela (message 14)? If so we would appreciate a reply.

What happened to the Romans?

We heard them marching outside St Margaret's Church. The previous vicar, Richard Allington-Smith, wrote "Son et Lumiere" which began with the sound of them. Does anyone know what happened to the scripts of that marvellous production? It was held inside the church and included the headless horseman riding round.

Hi, I'm trying to trace a friend of my great aunt. Her name is Pamela M Jeff and she used to live in Rainham in Kent. My aunt (Ms Hicks) used to work with her and would love to contact her again. does anyone live near her or know of this lady, she should be in her 80's if so please post a message! Thanks

Edited by author 08-20-2006 06:10 PM
Can the current residents of 2A or 4 Roberts Road let me know if the double Anderson shelter is still in situ. It was built to a special specification by my father in 1939 as working for Short Brothers on the Sunderland flying boat and later the Stirling bomber he knew that we would have to stay put. I understand that after the war the council was approched to remove the shelter but declined on the grounds that the effort would be too much with the facilities then at hand.

Hi there
has anyone got any photograhic evidence of Sunderland Square which was off of High Dewar Road .I have contacted the civic centre and that has been frustrating.It was built by German pow's from what i have been told.It was a council estate for those who are not familiar with the name and it was sandwiched between London Road and to the back of it Soloman Road .
Any help on photographs or history would be so welcome

kind regards

Mark Hollinsworth

In answer to an earlier message. A book on Upchurch called " Upchurch in old picture postcards " is available from Clemons Newsagents,Oak Lane Upchurch, Rainham Bookshop or email info@upchurchmatters.co.uk for details. See also http://www.upchurchmatters.co.uk

Does anyone remember the village shop in Wigmore run by Frank Sayers - I think this would have been about the 1920s/30s. Frank was my great grandfather and I'd be really interested in anyone's memories of that time. My great grandmother lived in Hoath Lane until she died aged 101 in the 70s I think. I remember a Chatham, Rochester & Gillingham News photo of her holding a bouquet and showing off her telegram from the Queen on her 100th birthday. My Nan, Maisie Sayers, lived in Cambridge Road. My father Jack was the youngest of 4 children (Ted, Joan, Doris were the others). Mum (Jean nee Devine)& Dad were members of the Wigmore Cycling Club in the late 40s early 50s. Any memories or photos you could share would be really appreciated.

My email address is lindacorby@btopenworld.com

Does anybody have any information on 'Pump Lane', is this the orginal road name. I am looking for particular information on Charity House. My grand-parents lived there until the late 1960's, and my great grandparents before them.

Edited by author 03-20-2006 09:10 AM
can anyone confirm if there was a shop in the 30/40's called 'W. Abnett' near the top of Ivy Street and what it sold. (Believed to be Boot and Shoe repairer). Also believed to have a Barber's one side and an Animal Feed shop the other. (Enquiring for author Alan Major)Does anyone have a Rainham Gazeteer for that period

I lived at "The Camp", Maidstone Road, Rainham during the late 1940's to the early 1950's.
I was wondering if anyone has any photographs or local history knowledge of the "The Camp". It was located where the modern day Bettescombe Road is now.

My recollections of the place was that during the war it was AA Battery camp. Once hosilities had ceased the camp was evacuated by the army and was given over to housing civilians. Also there was a primary school on the site, which I had attended before going to Orchard St School.

Regards

George

<<Does anyone know where I can find a photo of the cement works that used to be next to Montey Hill Road? I seem to remember seeing one on the front cover of Action Forum years ago. Thanks.>>

I have a couple of pictures collected but not used for my book Upchurch in old picture postcards. If I can help,let me know: Email:mikegunnill@mac.com

kind regards

Mike

When was St Margaret's Church built?

Roger,
You might remember my Godfather Geoff Gilbert who was born in Ivy Street around 1925 and grew up in No.1. Ivy Street.

Geoff is now living near Oxford. I have a couple of photos of the area which might interest you if you could contact me via the webmaster - he has my e-mail address.

I can also remember the shop, I was born in 1951 and grew up in the village living at 79 Station Road (corner of Webster Road) and 25 Thames Avenue before moving away in 1964. I live in Scotland now.

Hi

Any relation to Howard Green, my mothers cousin?

My mother was born in Hollywell and still lives in Rainham,
she remembers the shop etc. Mum is now in her mid 80s.

Kind regards

Anne

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Edited by author 12-31-2005 02:15 PM
My parents owned A. R Green & Son the newsagents at 133 High St, (Corner of Ivy St)from the 30s through the 60s.
It was originally known as "Enterprise Libraries" in the 30s....Would love to hear from anyone who grew up in Rainham and remembers the shop, my parents or I.
I was born there in 1941 and now live in Florida.
One of my sisters was Pamela Curtis-Green a pottery teacher at Orchard Street Secondary school.

Does anyone know where I can find a photo of the cement works that used to be next to Montey Hill Road? I seem to remember seeing one on the front cover of Action Forum years ago. Thanks.

Pamela Godfrey (nee Coleman) would like to contact two of her friends who attended the Secondary Modern School in Orchard Street with her until May 1948. They are Gladys Fisher and Anne Hayes. It is known that Gladys joined the WRENS, as Pam heard her being interviewed on the radio shortly afterwards. Do either of you still live in the Rainham area, or does anyone know their whereabouts?

Hi i used to live with my family at 44 berengrave lane. I am just wondering if that house is still there? Also i know many bad things happend there (prior to us living there and during our lives there) so i'm wondering if that fate carried on or if someone now happily lives there. I live in Australia now so just wondering really. Thanks

I am interested in knowing if there are any photos or prints in existence of Sileham/Siloam Farm. I know that it was a very old farm, owned at one time by the Tufton family, from whom I am descended. I assume now that there is nothing left of the farm although I did find a reference to it in the 1920's. Thank you.
 
William Adams
adamssb@onetel.com

I am looking for any historical information about the area surrounding Berengrave Nature Reserve and the reserve itself, like what it had been used for and the such before it became a reserve. I am currently trying to create a historical portfolio of the area as part of a project a friend and myself are doing for university.

Please email me at: bugs99@wildmail.com

Thank you

Edited by author 06-12-2005 01:30 PM
RE RAINHAM'S WAR MEMORIAL:

You might be aware from Action Forum and Bygone Kent of my interest in the men named on Rainham's War Memorial. I started researching these men 3 or 4 years ago with a view to publishing a commemorative booklet. This has been frustrated as I have been unable to idenitify AJ Goodwin and as a result little has happened in the past year or so. As I have well over 100000 words in note form on the 99 men named, I am now thinking of publishing what I have.

Some people have been good enough to provide photos of some of the men named. If anyone reads this who has information or photos of any of Rainham's WW1 soldiers, particulary but not limited to those who died and whose names appear on the War Memorial, then I would be grateful if you contact me by email to jcs_gfc@hotmail.com

Alternatively if you are a relative with no information or photo then I am always happy to answer family history questions on these men.

Many thanks.

Please can anybody help with finding a group photograph of all the residents of Berengrave Lane taken at the Berengrave Park in 1945 to celebrate V.E. Day.
Charlie Cox was the Mayor at that time is seated in the centre of the photograph.
I would love to see this photograph if anybody has one.
Some of the families in the picture are the Tylers, Willis, Bartlett, Tubb, Mc.Caffrey, Ransley, Thompson and many others in this group photograph.
Perhaps the local news paper may have a copy in there archives.
If anybody has this picture then please contact me on 01795 520826

I noticed that someone has done a family tree of the 'Tadmans' - I am trying to contact Barbara Tadman, who lived in Station Road, Rainham with her parents in the '60s. I lived on Chalky Bank Road then and we went to school together, I believe she moved to Germany inthe early '70s,and would love to contact her.

Down here in Dorset it is difficult to undertahe research personally. Am tryin to contact any members of the Tottman
"clan" resident in Rainham. Would also like to contact any members of Rainham CC who played on the Berengrove pitch in 1947 - 1949.

Many thanks - its a good tip. I believe Chatham Library has a better selection of Kelly's and I might be able to map it out from looking at the immediate pre and post "1928 transfer" Kelly's.

Edited by author 04-12-2005 04:24 AM
If you live in Medway you can check at Gillingham library for the Kelly's Directory. These are held for most years until 1960s I believe and list all the residents and their addresses by road. This means you can track changes of the address by the person living there. The ones I have seen show more for houses known by name being given numbers but I'm not sure about renumbering of previous houses. Have a look and see if it might help.
Good luck,
AJ

History of Rainham Kent
Kent Portrait Photography

Any ideas how I could find out how the old house numbering system worked - I am assuming they were re-jigged with the street name changes after Rainham became part of Gillingham in 1928/9. For example is the present 22 Tufton Road the old 18 or something similar.

Many thanks in advance.

My father is related (cousin) to George and Maurice Tadman, is there any information on there wherabouts or information on there family which was from Rainham. I have the Tadman family tree but fail to find George and Maurice on it.
 
I know its a long shot, but any information or leads would be helpful. My fathers family are all Rainham and Chatham people.
 
Thanks
 
John Tadman

I was very interested to see a photo on your site which included Willie Edmunds from Rede Court. I have been trying for years to find a photo of the old Rede Court House for a history of the area. I don't suppose you have any contacts?

Welcome to the Rainham History forum. Feel free to post any requests for info on the area that other readers may be able to help with.