Medway Division

Girlguiding Medway Division comprises of the rich in history towns of Chatham, Rochester, Lordswood and Walderslade.

Chatham is famous for its Naval Dockyard which closed in 1984.  Now it is known as the Historic Dockyard Chatham.  It was the birthplace of many famous ships including Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory. Once one of the most important naval dockyards in the country, it is now the most complete dockyard of the age of sail to survive in the world.  ]

Much of Chatham is overlooked by Fort Amherst.  This is Britain’s best example of a Napoleonic Fortress and is of international historical importance, built to protect the former Royal Dockyard at Chatham from a land-based attack.

Rochester is famous for its castle and cathedral and has a connection to Charles Dickens

Rochester Castle is one of the best preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England.  In 1087, Bishop Gundulf – one of William the Conqueror’s finest architects – began constructing the castle. The great keep was built by William de Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury, to whom Henry I granted custody of the castle in 1127. The castle has a chequered history, having been subjected to siege three times and in 1215 partly demolished by King John.

Rochester Cathedral has been celebrating Christian worship since 604AD and is the second oldest cathedral in England.

Charles Dickens’ most impressionable childhood days were spent in Medway.  Historic Rochester inspired the author so much that he featured it in his work more than any city, other than London.  Many of the buildings that featured in the works of Dickens can still be seen today. These include Restoration House, used in Dickens’ novel ‘Great Expectations’ as the home of Estella and Miss Havisham, The Six Poor Travellers House, immortalised by the author in a Christmas short story and the impressive Guildhall Museum and Eastgate House also featured in the works of Dickens.

Our Standard depicts the rich history of Chatham and Rochester in Medway Division

  1. At the hoist is the Trefoil
  2. White Horse of Kent or the White Horse Rampant is the symbol for the Kingdom of Kent dating from the 6th
  3. Our Motto Be Prepared
  4. Chatham Coat of Arms. The ships refer to Chatham’s naval associations and the laurel wreath, trident and sword to the Royal Marines.
  5. Rochester Coat of Arms. The lion indicates that Rochester was originally a royal borough. The red cross of St. George the Patron Saint of England.

For more information contact Jo Purves  medwaydivision@hotmail.com

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