January 2024
The branch started 2024 off by showing 2 DVD’s about the Port of London. The first DVD was based on period News Reals. First images being taken in 1919 of the concrete constructed coaster ARMISTICE also completed in 1919, seen at East India Docks. The DVD took us through the history of the port showing the changing methods of working and equipment in the dock ending with the demise of majority of the London Dock and the Opening of the London City Airport in 1987. Along the way several spectacular fires in the dockside warehouses were seen along the magnificent views of the Cunard liner MAURENTIA entering the Royal Docks in August 1939. The second film was a Museum of London film showing more recent history of the docks and views of handling of bulk goods within the docks. Also seen were the failed proposed plans for the Maplin Seaport Development including an airport.