KAS Newsletter, Issue 23, Autumn 1992

The St. Peter's Funerary Helm of Manasses Norwood 1564-1637

Editor's note: The following article was sent by Mr. W. H. Lapthorne, who, seven years ago was assisting the Keeper of Armour at the Tower of London in making a catalogue of armour still existing in Parish Churches. Originally two helmets hung above the tomb but one went missing about two hundred years ago. Then, at the beginning of this year, the other one was stolen. Thus, with this year being the 350th anniversary of the outbreak of the Civil war, this information will be of interest to KAS members and perhaps assist in the recovery of a valuable local heirloom.

'The Norwood Helm, which hangs in St. Peter's Church above the tomb of Captain Manasses Norwood 1564-1637, is of the 17th Century. It is a funerary helm - that is to say it was never made for wear but produced specifically to be suspended over Norwood's tomb. That it is indicative of a funerary helm can be seen by the absence of a number of features that would be found on a real or functional helmet, namely its lightness, lack of lining rivets and other practical details - added to which, the lower visor shows the usual funerary gilding, something found only on this kind of helmet. Although based on the traditional lines of a late-Medieval Close Helmet, it more echoes those of cuirassier (heavy cavalry) helmets worn in northern Europe, about 1620- 1630. As is usual it has a one piece skull, having a pronounced comb perforated by a small hole from which it could be suspended. The lower visor is of a very pronounced boat-shape form, with the upper visor fitting into it. There is no roping and the only decoration is the funerary gilding, but the customary circles of breathing holes can be seen on the lower visor; yet here again they are intended for use only on a real (fighting) helmet. Funerary helms were made before the death of the person they were intended for. As an active Royalist, Manasses Norwood supplied the highest qualities of arms and men of any inhabitant in the parish of St. Peter's. Although he did not live to see the Civil War, he was described in 1630 as a 'Captain'. As this seems to be 'a companie of horse' it explains why his funerary helm is for a cuirassier rather than that of an infantry officer.'

These details, together with photographs, were sent to Ian Eaves, Keeper of Armour at the Armouries, H.M. Tower of London on 16th February 1985. The helmet is rather rusty and in poor condition and weighs 4½ lbs.

(about half the weight of a functional helmet) and is 14 inches high with a neck opening of 12 by 10 inches.

W. H. Lapthorne

Retirement of Mr. A. Harrison and appointment of Mr. Andrew Moffat as Hon. General Secretary of the K.A.S.

Members will be pleased to learn of the appointment at the A.G.M. in May 1992 of Mr. Andrew Moffat as Hon. General Secretary of the K.A.S. after the retirement of Mr. Arthur Harrison, who we are pleased to say, will continue to work for the Society as Assistant to Mr. Moffat. Members send best wishes to them both in their new roles and hope that their problems will be few and far between. Mr. Harrison would like to express his grateful thanks to all those members who contributed so generously to the present he received at the A.G.M. on 23rd May 1992. He would also like to express his warm appreciation of the help and support he has received from his fellow Officers, Council and members during the twenty-one years he has been the Society's 'dogsbody'.

About the Kent Defence Research Group (A Subject Branch of the KAS)

I'd like to remind members of the existence of the Society's 'Kent Defence Research Group' and to invite the involvement of any interested readers. The motto of the Group is 'Record, Research, Retrieve' and its formal aims are to: Research the history of the defences against attack for invasion built in Kent since the introduction of firearms. Fully record all surviving fortifications.

Bring to public notice the extent and variety of our defensive heritage and to press for the preservation of selected defences of importance and interest.

Carry out excavation and restoration work in appropriate cases. Publish the results of research and excavations undertaken. Provide a friendly and informal forum for the exchange of information and ideas.

The Group publishes a lively quarterly journal called 'Ravelin' and occasional papers called 'Ravelin Specials'. Both of these have a breadth of view which extends beyond Kent.

Since its formation in 1973, the Group has undertaken a wide range of activities, including many research projects, which have been published in a variety of journals and magazines. A Tudor blockhouse has been excavated and New Tavern Fort restored and re-armed. The group also set up a steering group which led to the inception of a project for the restoration of Coalhouse Fort at East Tilbury. There have been many advisory inputs by members to a range of restoration projects in the UK and abroad. One member is undertaking a major study of 20th-century defences in Scotland for the Historic Scotland organisation. The group has campaigned for the conservation of our defensive heritage, including a part in the moves for the presentation of the Grand Shaft at Dover. It has sometimes given evidence at planning enquiries affecting fortifications, not least of which was that concerned with the development scheme which would have obliterated an important part of the Royal Military canal. Members have a vital role in acting as the eyes and ears of the Group watchdog which aims to stand guard over Kent's defensive heritage.

The coasts and inland areas are being gradually searched in field expeditions for extant defensive sites, or traces of them, from gun batteries and forts to pill boxes and slit-trenches, from anti-aircraft battery sites to radar installations and many other categories besides - covering a date range of over 500 years. The variety is great and each site has its own fascinating story to tell. Much still remains to be done.

Some members prefer to concentrate on researching and writing up defences which are local to them or are of particular and personal interest. The possibilities for involvement are extensive. Naturally members match their involvement to their time available. You don't have to be an expert in fortifications to be involved, and to indulge your interests in an enjoyable way, as well as to make a contribution to knowledge. Many members of the KDRG knew little about fortifications before they joined but it is surprising how knowledge and expertise develops and grows when you get involved.

There are still areas of the county to be searched for defences and also defences found earlier to be re-assessed. There are local, county and national archives to be explored for information and defences to be researched and written up. A major need is for the recollections and anecdotes of those who can remember the Second World War, (and earlier defences) of this century to be collected and noted down. Such information does much to bring the defences to life.

The KDRG is open to anyone. The present membership is nearly 50, of which a small number are KAS members. We would like to see more of the latter join and become involved. Anyone from the KAS who applies automatically becomes a member but we do ask for a subscription of £6.50 per year which covers the cost of 4 quarterly journals and any occasional papers, usually at least one a year. Anyone who is interested please contact either: David Burridge, Secretary/Editor, or Victor Smith.

We would be happy to discuss the possibilities with you, to advise on current Group activities in which you might join and to suggest topics you could consider following up - or just provide you with all information for joining if you would prefer simply to subscribe to the quarterly journals and 'Specials'.

Victor T C Smith

The K.A.S. in the 1920's

Our member, Mr. Michael Ocock, discovered the following interesting holes on a pamphlet amongst a miscellaneous collection of KAS papers. There is no publication date on the pamphlet but he believes it must have appeared in print around 1927 or 1928. He would be interested to know if anyone remembers the 'Proposed Establishment of an Excavation Branch' and, if it was ever formed, what became of it? He points out that it was not necessary to be a KAS member in order to be a member of the Branch.

Kent Archaeological Society, Proposed Establishment of an Excavation Branch

The work of the Kent Archaeological Society in the past has been considerably hampered by lack of funds available for carrying out excavations on historic sites within the County. Now that this work ranks as of prime importance in archaeological investigation it is incumbent upon the members to do something to remove the reproach, which has, admittedly with some justice, been cast upon the Society as a whole. Whenever possible, grants have been made in the past for excavation work but generally these have been small owing to limited resources of infrequent occurrence, and it is not flattering to County pride to know that the Society of Antiquaries, the Royal Archaeological Institute, and the British Archaeological Association have quite recently financed almost entirely various archaeological excavations in Kent. Even local societies such as the Dartford Antiquarian Society, the Woolwich Antiquarian Society, and those of Greenwich and Beckenham have done more during the past twenty years - with their limited membership and small subscriptions, than the Parent Society.

To remedy this state of affairs a proposal was made in 1920 to establish an "Excavation Branch" and the scheme was approved by the Council. It was found, however, that the time was not convenient; the recent war and its after effects were too much in the minds of county folk, and the scheme was postponed. Now, however, the time seems opportune and the various local secretaries and others in touch with feeling in the county report that such a branch might now be established with considerable success. What is required is briefly: (a) A capital fund, the interest from which is to be devoted to excavation work. (b) An annual income from subscriptions to supplement (a). With this end in view members are asked to subscribe such sums as they feel able to contribute to one or the other, or both of these. Donations may, of course, be of any amount and will be invested and subscriptions are invited of ten shillings yearly. Already, by private efforts of a few members, a capital fund of £25 has been formed and about thirty persons have indicated their willingness to become annual subscribers. These totals it is hoped may be increased to £500 and 200 subscribers at least. With an income of not less than £100 a year a great deal of useful work may be carried out and the pages of Archaeologia Cantiana considerably supplemented with valuable material. Interest in this scheme has been shown in archaeological circles generally and the Branch will have the benefit of the expert advice of Dr. R. E. M. Wheeler, Mr. J. P. Bushe Fox, Mr. A. W. Clapham and Alex Keller whose work at Windmill Hill near Avebury is of enormous importance. These gentlemen will act as an Advisory Committee on any point that may be submitted to them and their names are a guarantee that any excavation carried out will be done in a proper scientific manner. A Committee of members of the Branch will be elected.

Meanwhile the Officers and Committee (pro tem) are: President: Sir Martin Conway, Treasurer: C. Stokes, Committee: V. B. Crowther Beynon, H. Elgar, Dr. Hardman, R. Jessup, Rev. R. U. Potts, W. Whiting. Secretary: F. C. Elliston Erwood.

The object and possibilities of the Branch will be further explained at the ACM of the KAS at Maidstone, but meanwhile those interested are asked to send their names and their donations or subscriptions to the Hon. Sec. of the Excavation Branch as soon as possible. Members of this Branch are not obliged to be members of the KAS.

It is hoped to make a first excavation in the autumn. The place and the extent of the dig will naturally depend on the response to this appeal but the opinion expressed at the Autumn Meeting, 1927, at Kit's Coty House, will be borne in mind and an earnest attempt to investigate these interesting remains is one of the first objects of the Branch. The Hon. Secretary will be pleased to give any further information and will also appreciate any correspondence dealing with sites exposed through building operations or wood clearance. He will likewise welcome help in compiling a list of those able and willing to supervise excavation in various parts of the county - particularly names of specialists in various branches of archaeology. As it is not proposed to confine excavations to one type of site, prehistoric and medieval remains, both domestic and ecclesiastical, will alike find a place in the programme, the extent of which is only limited by financial response.

For the Council of the Kent Archaeological Society, George C. Druce, General Secretary.'

Books

POSTS OF SEVENOAKS by Archibald Donald. (See enclosed leaflet)

RESEARCHING A GARDEN'S HISTORY, by David Lambert. Published by the Centre for Historic Parks and Gardens. £5.20. Obtainable from the Landscape Design Trust, 5a West Street, Reigate, Surrey RH2 9BL.

RESEARCHING THE COUNTRY HOUSE, A Guide for Local Historians by Arthur Elton, Brett Harrison, and Keith Wark. Published by B. T. Batsford £19.99 Hardback.

RECORDING HISTORIC BUILDINGS, A Descriptive Specification. Published by the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments of England. This 1990 guide has now gone into a second edition. £2. Obtainable from RCHME Fortress House, 23 Savile Row, London W1X 23Q. (" Tel: 071 973 3500.

THE REPAIR OF WOOD WINDOWS, (SPAB Pamphlet No. 13, 24 pp.) £4 includes p. & p. Obtainable from the Soc. for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, 37 Spital Square, London E1 6DY.

THE CHIEFEST GRAIN. The autobiography of the late Prof. Maurice Barley, edited by Philip Dixon. £9.95 plus £1.95 p. & p. May be obtained from Archaeological Section, Dept. of Classical and Archaeological Studies, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD. Cheques to be made payable to 'University of Nottingham' CREATURE COMFORTS, The Problems of London Zoo. A joint report issued by the Victorian Society and the Thirties Society. Obtainable from the Victorian Society, 1 Priory Gdns., London W4.

Major H. R. Pratt Boorman, C.B.E., M.A., D.L., F.J.I.

Members will be sad to learn of the death in June of Major Pratt Boorman who was probably one of the Society's most long-serving members. He joined the KAS in 1932 and was a member of Council from 1939 to 1972 and a Vice President from 1972 to 1985. He became a patron from 1985 until his death. He was the author of several books on Kent.

Geoff Porteus Memorial Window

Those members who attended the dedication of this beautiful stained glass window in Holy Trinity Church, Dartford, on 20th June, may be interested to know that the panel was designed and installed by Keith and Judy Hill, A.M.G.P., The Stained Glass Workshop.

National Trust Ban on Photography

This complete ban on photography within any of the Trust's historic houses was imposed on visitors and members in April 1992. Further restrictions include the carrying of bulky bags and hand luggage into the buildings, and visitors may be required to check them into a baggage counter before touring a house.

RIBA Library

An item of good news is that the Royal Institute for British Architects Library, at 66, Portland Place, London W1 is to open again on Saturday mornings from 10 am to 1.30 pm. The Library is open to non-members.

Assistant Treasurer Needed

The Hon. Treasurer, Brian Cousins, would like to hear from any member who would be interested in becoming Assistant Treasurer.

The duties would not be onerous and in any case would be a matter for discussion and agreement.

The work is likely to be suitable for a recently qualified or qualifying accountant, or someone with experience of accounts.

Appointment of Press & Publicity Officer

Members will be pleased to know that Mr. R. Bloomfield has agreed to act in this capacity and in the future, news of forthcoming KAS events, outings, lectures, etc. will reach the attention and interest of a much wider public.

Appointment of Lectures Secretary

Mr. Don Coast has volunteered to organize a program of lectures on various topics and at various venues in Kent for members and friends of the KAS. He writes:
'Our President has long expressed a wish to have a series of lectures promoted by the Society. My recent appointment by Council as Lectures Secretary is one small step in its fruition. From September onwards, it is proposed to arrange a series of monthly lectures in chosen venues with a carefully selected list of speakers. Meetings will be held on Saturday afternoons, probably starting at 2:30 - 3 pm and ending, whenever possible, with simple refreshments. A charge of £1.50 to £2 will be made with a reduction for KAS members and children.

Attendance will not be restricted to KAS members and it is hoped that friends will be invited as well as members of local historical, archaeological, civic, and community societies. Local members can help by publicizing the events and posters will also be deployed. Full details of venues, speakers, etc. are set out in the enclosed leaflet with an application form for tickets. I should nevertheless welcome suggestions for alternative venues, speakers, and subjects for future talks.'

Don Coast

Library & Muniments Committee: Help needed

As a consequence of the Council's decision to no longer finance a substantial expansion of our topographical section, the Committee is seeking volunteers to assist in the further expansion of our activities.

Ideally, some historical and archaeological knowledge, as well as experience in library work, would be of great advantage.

The areas in which help is particularly needed are: (a) to assist generally on Wednesday afternoons; (b) with suggestions for the maintenance and purchase of collections, including theses, books, and visual material about Kent. Lists of sought-after books will be published in future issues of the Newsletter. Contributions and arrangements for events in the Lecture Series, such as the Symposium on Edward Hasted, are welcomed. The Committee meets three to four times a year.

Peter Draper

K.A.S. Tour of the Loire Valley, May 1992

This May's tour of the Loire Valley, organised by our Excursion Secretary, Mr. Crane, enabled 43 of the Society's members and friends, not only to visit the renowned chateaux, but also to appreciate the vast continental territory controlled by our early Angevin kings. The latter's French commitment was emphasised by the presence of their fine tombs which we visited in the abbey of Fontevraud, Amboise, where we were based, and contains, as well as its castle, the last home of Leonardo Da Vinci. The visible presence of Renaissance influence in France which we appreciated at Blois, Villandry and Chenonceaux. An unexpected bonus was the opportunity to see the son et lumiere display at Chambord - the most exotic of all the chateaux as well as being the castle for which the display was first devised 40 years ago - on our last evening. All in all, this was a most satisfying and instructive tour, which was as always, extremely well organised. We look forward to 1993 and a proposed visit to Brittany.

Joy Saynor

K.A.S. Walk: (Farningham to Lullingstone) on 6th June 1992

The President and Hon. General Secretary accompanied members on a historical walk, organised by Mrs. Saynor, from Farningham church to the Kingfisher Centre at Lullingstone. Remembering the turnpike road era, we walked via Sparepenny Lane to Eynsford, assessing the medieval castle of the De Eynsfords en route. Next, we followed the track to the Lullingstone Villa and to Lullingstone Castle and church before having tea at the Kingfisher Centre.

Nettlestead Social Evening

Igglesdon described the house as a jewel and such the medieval stone house seemed as it glowed in the evening sunlight. Even more impressive was the 13th century undercroft where 125 members were served with a bountiful barbecue supper provided by the East Peckham Scout Committee. Our thanks to Mr. Tucker for his hospitality and for his talk in the adjoining St. Mary's church which is famous for its glass. Thanks also to Mrs. Margaret Lawrence for organizing a really enjoyable evening.

A Level Archaeology by Correspondence Course: Newark and Sherwood College, Nottinghamshire

Newark and Sherwood College, Nottinghamshire This College provides the opportunity to study archaeology for a formal qualification without attendance at a center. So few colleges run examination courses, that this service will appeal to people from a wide geographical area who otherwise may have no access to such tuition. While many students prefer to study alone, others have formed small groups, meeting at one another's houses to discuss issues arising from their work and to give each other mutual support and help. Their studies. It is not essential that students actually commit themselves to take the examination, in fact a fair number follow the course simply because it structures and guides their learning in a subject they enjoy while still allowing them to work at a pace that suits them.

Tutoring is undertaken at present by a team of three staff - all teacher-trained and involved in the practical aspects of the subject. The course content covers areas of (i) archaeological methodology - survey, excavation, post excavation, chronology, (ii) topics of world archaeology, early man, art, origins and spread of farming, (iii) aspects of British archaeology, and (iv) a personal study of an aspect of archaeological significance.

Further information on Newark and Sherwood College Archaeology may be obtained from: M. Gorin, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG24 1PB.

For Sale

Members are reminded that they can obtain K.A.S. 'Tote bags', £6; Tea Cloths, £3. Ties, (navy blue, green or grey), £3.50. Book Markers

For Sale

Are you planning an excavation or fieldwork within the county of Kent during 1993? Grants are available from the KAS to assist with work carried out by Affiliated Societies or individual members.

Applications on appropriate form General Secretary Andrew Moffat.

Events, Lectures, Outings

K.A.S. EXCURSION to BEDGEBURY AREA. Saturday, 5th, September 1992. Full afternoon visit. Meet at Kilndown church at 2 pm. for a 1-hour talk on the famous 19th Century church; see the famous marquetry panels. Tour of Bedgebury Park School to see the Library, Badminton Room etc. See gardens and grounds. Light refreshments in the house. Illustrated talk on the Beresford Hope family, especially A. J. Beresford Hope the founder member of the K.A.S., first lay president of the R.I.B.A., Ecclesiologist, M.P. and patron of the Arts. Finish approx. 5 pm. Members wishing to spend the whole day in the area may lunch at the 'Globe and Rainbow' in Kilndown village or at the 'Happy Eater' on the A21. Bedgebury Park is 2.5 miles S. of Goudhurst. Cost £3. Contact Mr. Crane.

K.A.S. FIELDWORK COMMITTEE ONE DAY COURSE. Saturday, 5th, September 1992. The KAS Fieldwork committee is continuing its very successful series of specialist one day courses on archaeological techniques with a day course on SURVEYING UNDERGROUND SITES. The course, to be held at Dartford, will be conducted by Rod LeGear the Hon. Secretary and one of the principal surveyors of the Kent Underground Research Group. It will be designed for those who have little or no previous knowledge or experience of the subject. Basic surface surveying, as well as simple underground survey techniques will be covered and there will be opportunities to use various surveying instruments during the day. For those who wish to put the theory into practice for real, it is planned to have an optional visit to an underground site the following Saturday. To cover costs there will be a registration fee of £1. Contact R. LeGear for last minute cancellations.

K.A.S. FIELDWORK ONE DAY CONFERENCE ON THE PALAEOLITHIC PERIOD. 24th, October 1992. To be held at the Professional Development Centre, Southborough School, Loose, Maidstone. 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets and programme from Dr. A. P. Detsicas, Dunelm House, Main Road, Icklesham, Winchelsea, West Sussex. £4 members. £5 non-members or at the door, S.A.E. please.

K.A.S CHRISTMAS BUFFET. SEE ENCLOSED LEAFLET.

CONFERENCE OF BUILDING RECORDERS. The 29th Annual Conference of Building Recorders will be held on Saturday, 17th, October 1992, at the Barn Hall, Charing, commencing at 2.15 pm. It is hoped the speakers will include: Mrs. Jayne Semple on Ford Manor, Wrotham. Mr. Neal Aldridge on Moatenden, Headcorn. Mrs. Jane Wade, Dr. Jo Cox and Mr. John Thorpe on The Kent Farmsteads Survey. Some early findings. A report will be made on the Kent Historic Buildings Index. Tea and biscuits will be available. Members and visitors may attend without tickets and there will be a collection to cover expenses.

KENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY (MEDWAY & GILLINGHAM BRANCH). The following meetings have been arranged for 1992-1993. All members of the KAS, non-members and guests are welcome to attend. Meetings are held at the Guildhall Museum, High Street, Rochester, commencing at 7.30 pm. Coffee and biscuits are served from about 7 pm. Tuesday, 20th, October 1992. 'Excavations in Bahrain' by Martin Hicks. Mr. Hicks has excavated extensively in Britain (especially in East Kent) and for the last two winters has been excavating in the Persian Gulf. Tuesday, 9th, February 1993. 'Excavations on Mill Hill, Deal, 1982 - 1989, by Keith Parfitt, a full-time archaeologist who has directed excavations in East Kent with the Dover Archaeological Group.

KENT UNDERGROUND RESEARCH GROUP. (A subject branch of the KAS) KAS members are welcome to attend lectures given by KURG. Monday, 12th, October. Ancient Deneholes to Nuclear Bunkers - the work of the Kent Underground Research Group, by R. LeGear. At the Bexley Historical Society meeting at the 'Pop in Parlour' Graham Road, Bexleyheath. Talk starts at 8 pm. Further details contact Rod. Le Gear 081-304 1781. Friday, 20th, November. Deneholes of Kent by Jim Bradshaw at the Kent Trust for Nature Conservation Centre at Tyland Barn, Sandling. Talk starts at 7.30 pm. For further details contact Mike Halpin or Jim Bradshaw.

ADVANCE NOTICE of a KAS ONE DAY SCHOOL to be held in the refurbished Shoreham Village Hall on Saturday, 6th, March 1993 from 10.15 am to 4.30 pm. Theme will be Aspects of Kentish History and Archaeology. Lunch, Tea and Car parking will be available. Joy Saynor, Organiser.

OPEN AFTERNOONS AT SCADBURY MOATED MANOR EXCAVATIONS, CHISLEHURST. On Saturday, 12th, and Sunday, 13th, Sept. the archaeological excavations at the medieval moated manor site at Scadbury will be open to the public. Members of the Orpington & District Archaeological Society will give guided tours, showing the work that is currently being done on the site as well as the remains of the foundations of the buildings associated with the Walsingham family and unlike many similar moated sites the island is completely surrounded by water. Guided tours will be given at 15-minute intervals throughout both afternoons, the first at 2 pm and the last at 4.30 pm. There will also be a slide show, refreshments, and bookstall. Admission is free and limited car parking is available close to the site by ticket only, for which application should be made (enclosing a S.A.E. and stating for which day required) to: Mr. M. Meekums.

COUNCIL FOR KENTISH ARCHAEOLOGY CONFERENCE. BURIALS OF THE PAST. To be held at Christ Church College, North Holmes Road, Canterbury, on Saturday, 14th, November 1992 2.15 pm to 5.30 pm. Half day of lectures illustrated by colour slides. Speakers include Dr. Paul Ashbee on The Long Barrows and the Medway Megaliths. Dr. Jan Stead on The Snettisham Treasure, and Dr. Tom Blagg on Roman Tombs and Cemetery, North Holmes Road, Canterbury, on Saturday, 14th, November 1992 2.15 pm to 5.30 pm. Half day of lectures illustrated by colour slides. Speakers include Dr. Paul Ashbee on The Long Barrows and the Medway Megaliths. Dr. Jan Stead on The Snettisha111 Treas11re. and Dr. Tom Blagg on Roman Tombs and Cemeteries. Tickets: Price £2 (payable to C.K.A.). S.A.E. please.

ROMNEY MARSH WEEKEND CONFERENCE AT CANTERBURY. This will take place on 25th - 27th, September 1992 at the University of Kent at Canterbury. The conference will explore the physical changes which the marshes have undergone in pre-historic and historic times, and human reactions and adaptations. Speakers will include Dr. Michael Tooley, Romney Marsh, the Debatable Gro11nd Mark Gardiner on Medieval Fanning and Flooding. Andrew Butcher, Dr. Anthony Gross, Dr. Joan Thirsk. Tickets £98 residential, £55 non-residential. From Mrs. Sue Carrel.

INSTITUTE FOR THE STUDY OF INTERDISCIPLINARY SCIENCES. (ISIS) Professor Nicholas Coldstream of University College, London, will be giving his ISIS Fellowship Lecture Early Greek Visitors to Egypt and the Levant, on Saturday, 31st, October 1992. at 2 pm. Lecture theatre G6, Institute of Archaeology, Gordon Square, London. Afternoon Tea. Admission free.

SEMINAR. Arranged by the MUSEUM OF LEATHERCRAFT. This will take place on 2nd, October 1992 at the Saddlers Hall, 40 Gutter Lane, London. 10 am • 4.30 pm. Tickets £25. Further information may be obtained from Museum of Leathercraft. 60 Bridge St., Northampton. Tel: 0604 39415. also - EXHIBITION OF LEATHERCRAFT at Cordwainers College, 182 Mare Street, London E8 3RE. Tel: 081-985 0273. Open Tues. to Sat. 10 am to 5 pm. Sunday 12 noon to 5pm. From 12th, Oct. to 13th, Nov. 1992. Admission free.

EXHIBITION. at the Cuming Museum. 155-157 Walworth Road, London SE17 1RS. IMMORTAL REMAINS (Southwark's Medieval past) Until 24th, April 1993. Open 10 am to 5 pm. Tuesday to Saturday. Admission free. COURSES.

UNIVERSITY OF KENT. The following courses will be held at the University Centre at Tonbridge.

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE HISTORY OF KENT. Tutor: John Vigar. An examination of the h!storical influences which have shaped Kent through the ages usmg as evidence _ surv1vmg landscapes and buildings. Monday, 28th, September 1992, 10 weekly meetings, 1 to 3 pm. Fee £27.

THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE: GALLIA & BRITANNIA. Tutor: Alec Desicas. A comparative study of the establishment and development of these neighbouring provinces of the Roman Empire from the first century BC to the fifth century AD. Tuesday, 29th, September 1992. 20 weekly meetings, 10 am to 12 noon. Fee: £54.

PEOPLING THE ANCIENT PAST Tutor: Anthony Ward. Aimed at the newcomer to archaeology, the challenges of studying people m the ancient past will be examined together with the diverse approaches adopted by the archaeologist. Tuesday, 29 th, September 1992, 10 weekly meetings, 7.30 to 9.30 pm, Fee: £27.

THE DYNASTIES OF ANCIENT EGYPT. Tutor Frances Williams. A chronological introduction to the Ancient Egyptians from earliest dynasties through to later times of well-known pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramesses 11. Thursday, 1st, October 10 weekly meetings, 10 am to 12 noon. Fee: £27.

LOCAL HISTORY AND GENEAOLOGY: Using the Centre for Local Studies. A guide as to how to make the best use of the archives at the Centre for Kentish Studies, County Hall, Maidstone. Wednesday, 7th, October 1992, 20 weekly meetings 5.15 to 7.15 at County Hall.

Details of these courses may be obtained from the School of Continuing Education. University Centre at Tonbridge, Avebury Avenue, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 lTG. Tel: 0732 352316.