The KAS History & Archaeology Show

On Saturday 5 June, around 40 different groups gathered within Maidstone Museum, all those concerned being involved in various ways with the history and archaeology of Kent. The brainchild of Denis Astey (a member of the Membership and Publicity Committee), the History and Archaeology Show was originally formulated to provide a showcase for the affiliated societies of the KAS. As interest from other groups grew, the remit of the show expanded to include local activity-based societies and other organisations wishing to exhibit. The Mayor and Mayoress of Maidstone, Councillor Morel and Mrs Karin D'Souza, opened the Show, taking time to talk to each exhibitor.

The interest base of groups ranged widely. Local history and archaeology societies, too numerous to name individually here, brought along their latest research, often including a visual feast of old photographs, documents and maps. More specific subject areas were represented by such groups as The English Companions, the Wealden Iron Research Group, Maidstone Masonic Museum and North Downs Young Archaeologists. Kent Archive Services and Medway Archives were on hand to answer enquiries, as was Kent's Finds Liaison Officer and KCC's Sites and Monuments Record Officer. Metal detecting groups affiliated to the KAS brought showcases, and KAS Committees also took this opportunity to show their work; you can read about the involvement of the Publications and Library Committees in the Show elsewhere in this newsletter.

Over 500 people enjoyed the Show, which not only gave the public a chance to explore the ways in which Kent's past can be investigated, but also the opportunity for those already involved to meet and discuss their interest and work. It is hoped to hold the event again in 2006.

Two vertical banners bearing the Society's name and logo in the corporate colours blue and yellow were bought for the Show, also bunting in the same colours. These are available for use on application to the Membership Committee.

Above: Chair of the Membership and Publicity Committee, Margaret Lawrence, and her allies welcome the Mayor and Mayoress of Maidstone on the Committee's stand. Below: KAS President Paul Oldham introduces the Mayor and Mayoress to KCC's Finds Liaison Officer Andrew Richardson. Good to see the Mayoress has kept her copy of the KAS Newsletter!