What's On Now? (Temporary Exhibition)
Dartford Borough Museum’s latest exhibition is entitled
REACH FOR THE SKY
Dartford Borough Museum’s latest exhibition takes its inspiration from the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain but alsolooks at the history of aviation in the Borough of Dartford from the early days of flight. In addition to the Borough being part of the front linefor the Battle of Britain, there are many other tales to tell, starting with Hiram Maxim's flying machine which 'flew' in July 1894. Dartford Marshes also played their part with the testing of locally made Vickers aircraft including one of the first 'airliners', the training of Royal Flying Corps pilots and the use of the same airfield during the defence of London against Zeppelin attacks. In the early 1930s the land now covered by the Fleet Estate was used by a series of touring 'flying circus' air display teams which gave many Dartfordians their first taste of air travel.
Dartford Borough Museum would be keen to hear from anyone who has any memories of visits by the 'flying circus' or any local wartime aviation stories. One story in particular which wewould like to hear more about is that of a wartimeAmerican aircraft which crashed in a field near Barn End Lane. The staff at Wilmington Laundry had a collection for the pilot's widowwho was pregnant.
The exhibition runs until 25 September 2010
