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Oyster Fishing

John Harman supplies articles drawings and anecdotes as we explore the Whitstable oyster industry of the past... beds, methods, companies, flatsmen, boats... and  more!

Sprat Fishing

John Harman describes another marine migration - the arrival of the Leggat Brothers and the new methods that created a significant sprat fishing enterprise

Not yet available

Flagging Down Royalty

Local fishermen could raise extra income by hiring their boats out for special occasions. They also provided their services free of charge for community events. In 1954, these aspects caused some confusion... with Royalty involved. John Harman explains.

Community Events

Available soon

Introduction

 Click on the thumbnail photos to view the articles

Cockling

John Harman recalls cockling in his father's boat during the 1930/1940s

Rescues

In modern times Whitstable has gained a lifeboat station. However, in days gone by, the nearest lifeboat was based at Margate and local rescues were often effected by local fishing boats. Here we present accounts of several rescue operations..

Cost of a Rescue!
by John Harman

 John provides an account containing the RNLBI recognition document for  a rescue in which his father, Tom, took part in 1938. 

Hunt for US Aircraft
by Dave Jordan

In 1957 local fishing vessel 'Panadalus' was asked to take part in the search for missing USAF aircraft based at Manston. As a member of the crew, Dave took part and here he relates the story. 

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Whelking

John Harman discusses the distinctive Sheringham Crabber boats that migrated to Whitstable from East Anglia

Ian Johnson's family were part of that Sheringham migration and he picks up the story on whelking and those open boats.

Whiteweed!

A strange catch that was destined for the table and generated a cottage industry... but it was neither edible nor a weed. John Harman solves my mystery of 50 years!

Washing Down

Available soon

Civic Duty

 Available soon