GRAVESEND NOW!

In association with Gravesend's Hypermedia, the Fourth Portal is hosting an afternoon and evening of laidback social table discussions about the town's past and where people see it in the near future.   

THE PAST AND FUTURE ALWAYS MEET IN THE PRESENT

We welcome anyone wishing to become a table host for an hour or more, discussing anything Gravesend. 

More... 

A hidden gem

Gravesend is a bit of a hidden gem to outsiders. With a rich and varied history, the town has some incredible architecture and one of the best river views on the Thames. Once an important stopping-off point for ships heading to London, Gravesend has always had global connections. These global connections are reflected in the modern harmonious population, where people mix and mingle as one community. 

Industrial past

Since opening the Fourth Portal eight weeks ago, there has been a steady stream of people of all ages talking about the various aspects of the town.  The River Thames and Pocahontas are two well-known facets of Gravesend.   Less known about are the print and papermaking industries, Rosherville Gardens and the chalk and cement industries. We have been fortunate to meet many who worked in the mills and factories, experts on the river and the architecture and those wishing to learn more.

Literature glittarati 

The town is also rich in the world of literature.  Gravesend, and wider Gravesham, were a constant source of inspiration for Charles Dickens, who lived nearby.  Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness begins in Gravesend.  The Diary of Benjamin Franklin, Journal of a Voyage, writes of Gravesend as he set sail from the steps of St Andrews Mission House; as did John Keats when he left for Rome.  It makes the Pepys diaries and many more. 

We may have some readings of these famous texts. 

Plaques

St Andrews Art Centre, where the Fourth Portal is located, has some significant plaques.  John Franklin and his crew, Duleep Singh, the last King of Punjab, Sir Francis Balfour, creator of the Windscale, and the doomed Loch Ard sailship to Australia and New Zealand. 

Future

But what are the future industries lifting Gravesend into the forefront of business and visitors' minds? 

The beauty of so many innovative new technologies, there is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring this glorious past into the present to set the town course for the future. 

Free Entry. 

Bring an open mind and some thoughts on the town and enjoy a glass of wine or fabulous coffee.  

Send us a message if you would like to host a table.