Words and photos by Ray Duff – Once again the fascinating Fishing History Museum in Folkestone, which has been curated for many years by Alan Taylor and Frank Bond, reopened its doors for 2022.
In the first few days alone, there have been dozens of visitors of all ages, all spending time to view the increasing plethora of local artefacts, paintings, models, photographs, books and much more which show the range and depth of the local fishing trade and some of the ferry ones also.
In addition there are the remains of the former Ovenden forge, in the centre of the building which the museum occupies, and many of the implements of yesteryear which were used both for the local fishing industry and indeed the wider town.
Other parts of the museum feature many paintings and photographs of some of the ferries and it should be noted that 2022 marks the 50th Anniversary on 1 July of the start of the Folkestone to Boulogne roll-on/roll off car ferry service with the then brand new Hengist and Horsa, both of which also went on to serve, alongside many other ferries routes to Calais and Oostende.
The Museum is also part of the UK ‘Wheels of Time’ a project which encourages children to learn about their history which has links to many museums of all different subjects.
More information
Fishing Museum Info:: https://www.dandipal.uk/fishermen/index.htm
Wheels of Time: https://wheelsoftime.uk
Folkestone Fishing History Museum, 2 Radnor Street.
(Main entrance – Back Street, Fishmarket)
Open: Daily 10:30am – 4:00pm.