About SHAL
We are an active, diverse group with a current membership of around 60. We meet every third Tuesday at 7.30pm in the Harry Margary Hall next to the village hall in Lympne. The group was formed by Peter Stutchbury and Guy Topham in 2013. A first speculative meeting to determine interest, held in the 11th century Grade 1 listed Norman church, attracted over 60 people.
The group’s name came about after we were advised by Kent Archaeological Society to include an ‘action word’ in our title; hence ‘Studying History and Archaeology in Lympne’. We remain true to this vision as can be seen when you visit the History and Archaeological sections of this website.
Very sadly Peter died in 2015 and his wish was that SHAL should become a charity, which would help ensure its continued existence. This was achieved in 2016. SHAL is run by a committee of up to 12 committed trustees initially headed by Peter, then for many years by Fiona Jarvest and currently by Peter’s wife Rosemary.
What we do
As well as the regular monthly meetings and occasional visits to sites of interest in Kent, SHAL is engaged in activities to extend our skills and increase our knowledge of the past of Lympne and the surrounding area.
Historical research has included annotating the 1841 tithe map of the parish to help identify land use, owners and tenants. SHAL has also erected a plinth (applying Roman techniques using lime mortar, ragstone and tiles) with information and a picture board on the footpath above the remains of the Roman fort known as Stutfall Castle. Recent archaeological digs have added to the insights of previous excavations and discovered new areas of Roman occupation of the landscape. We have a regular presence in the Lympne community newsletter and present our activities at community events.
Who we are
The committee of up to12 volunteers take on all the roles of running a registered charity and organise the group’s activities.