Thought to have been formed in the aftermath of the Crimean War, the Whitstable Sea Cadets are believed to be the oldest unit in the United Kingdom.
Their origins are said to trace back to 1854, when Parson Barton, a Whitstable vicar, established a place for orphaned boys to encourage discipline and prepare them for future careers, through the teaching of nautical skills. This was said to have laid the foundations for what become the youth drum-and-fife band movement, which evolved into the Naval Lads’ Brigade, the Navy League and finally the Sea Cadets Corp we know today.
This exhibition explores more than 160 years of history, through a collection of stories, memories, photographs, artworks and artefacts, on loan from the Whitstable Cadet HQ in Bonners Alley. Blending documented history with local tradition, the story of the Whitstable Sea Cadets is one of resilience and community spirit.
You will also find information about how you can support or join the Whitstable sea cadet unit and details of up coming events.
The opportunity to share their heritage and celebrate this local unit has been made possible with funding from the Whitstable Improvement Trust.
