The Great Faversham Explosion 1916

On 2 April 1916 at 1.20pm a catastrophic explosion tore through the Explosives Works on the Uplees Marshes at Faversham, one of the darkest moments in British industrial history. This illustrated talk examines the events of that day, setting the tragedy within the wider context of the First World War and the local community it affected.

The disaster was not caused by enemy action or sabotage. An immense store of around 200 tons of TNT was accidentally detonated when empty sacks caught fire, triggering a series of secondary explosions. The blast claimed the lives of over 100 men and boys and remains the most terrible accident in the history of the explosives industry.

Dr Martin Watts BA (Hons) PhD (Open) FRHistS SFHEA will guide the audience through the causes and consequences of the explosion, exploring technical, social and historical angles to help explain how such a disaster unfolded and what it meant for Faversham and its workers.

This event is suitable for all ages; children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Join this thoughtful session to learn more about a pivotal local history story, reflect on its human cost and understand the legacy of the 1916 explosion.