miracles – battles which effectively destroyed French naval ambitions of the rest of the war and led to British worldwide success at sea. Her remains enable us to better understand the shipbuilding ingenuity at Chatham, which was crucial in developing British Naval dominance and in turn helped extend Britain’s influence around the world.” The Dockyard, which at its height employed more than a thousand people, became a visitor attraction after its closure in 1984 and the Namur’s
JANE AUSTEN
Jane Austen’s brother, Charles, commanded the Namur from 1811 to 1814 and she used his stories of Naval life to enrich the seafaring characters in her novels, including Mansfield Park and Persuasion.
remains will form the centrepiece for the new Command of the Oceans galleries. Set in restored historic buildings, the
project captures 400 years of history and acts as the starting point for telling the unique role of the Historic Dockyard Chatham in creating ships for the Royal Navy. The four new interactive galleries have been made possible with £4.8million from the Heritage Lottery Fund, as well as support from the Homes and Communities Agency, individuals and organisations. The Namur’s remains go on display with personal items and objects from the Invincible, an 18th century French warship captured by the Royal Navy in
1747, whose collection is also on display for the first time. The Dockyard also offers unrivalled
access to other ships that played a part in Britain’s seafaring destiny, including a Victorian anti-slavery sailing ship, a World War II destroyer and a Cold War submarine. Its historic buildings house a treasure trove of maritime artefacts and displays, all helping to tell the story of what it took to rule the waves.
ADMISSION AND TICKETS
Tickets to The Historic Dockyard Chatham offer unlimited entry for a year. Prices are: Adult, £24; concession, £21.50; children (5-15), £14; family £63. Full details:
www.thedockyard.co.uk/prices
Mid Kent Living 23
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