In the absence of the Chairman, I was most pleased to attend the opening on 8th July of the Walter Tull Exhibition now exhibiting at the Grand Hotel in Folkestone. This exhibition entitled “Crossing the White Line” tells the story of this most remarkable man who was born in Folkestone and attended what is now known as Mundella Primary School before becoming a professional footballer with Tottenham Hotspur and Northampton Town. He joined the the Army at the start of World War 1 and nearly survived throughout before being eventually killed in action in 1918. His body was never recovered.
Walter Tull
While many may consider this an unsurprising story, I was particularly fascinated to find that Walter rose through the ranks until he became the first black/mixed race officer in the British Army. While today we may not find this surprising, the fact that it happened nearly 100 years ago is, to me , remarkable.
This Exhibition, designed by the City of Westminster Archives has been funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and The Professional Footballers Association and has been on a nationwide tour since September 2008 visiting the National Army Museum, Methodist Central Hall London and ending here in Folkestone where you will be able to see it until the end of July.
The Opening Ceremony was led by The Mayor of Folkestone, Cllr. Mrs Janet Andrews and included a delightful song by the Mundella Pupils. A Highlight of the Exhibition was a video about Walter Tull made by the pupils and they are to be congratulated on their wonderful contribution.
So, when you have some spare time- perhaps when the weather is not good- why not take yourself and the family to view the exhibition. Like me, you will not be disappointed!!
David Owen
