Remains of a Revolution is the title of a Distinguished Visitor Lecture by Sir Neil Cossons OBE FSA at the Royal Dockyard Church, Chatham, on Wednesday 11 April at 19.00.

In the 18th century, Britain was widely recognised as the first industrial nation and in the 19th century as the ‘workshop of the world’.  What we now call the Industrial Revolution defined this momentous episode in the nation’s history and the dramatic changes in society and the landscape that ensued, not only in Britain herself but across the globe.  And, of the great industrial endeavours that distinguished this revolution the Royal Dockyards were the world’s largest.  Chatham was one of these.

In this lecture, Neil Cossons will consider the legitimacy of these revolutionary assertions, explores the surviving evidence and addresses the conservation challenges it presents.  As a former Director of London’s Science Museum, and Chairman of English Heritage, he draws on a wide palette of international examples to demonstrate how for some a future has been assured, for others their legacy will be little more than a footnote to history.

This event is brought to you by The Historic Dockyard Chatham in partnership with the University of Kent. It is free and open to all.