In December Rye News reported that a project was underway to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Mary Stanford lifeboat disaster in 1928. The Mary Stanford capsized during a rescue mission on November 15, 1928, and all 17 men in the crew were lost, practically all the male fishermen of Rye Harbour at the time. The project is to create a pebble pavement alongside the RNLI station in Rye Harbour. [See also here in this issue – editor]
The Conservation Society has agreed to donate £102 to the Pebble Pavement Project representing a membership subscription for each man who perished in the disaster. We would encourage Conservation Society members to contribute as well. On Monday February 18 there will be a free pebble-painting event in the East Street Museum for the pavement and we have asked Priscilla Ryan on our behalf to hand over our cheque to KT Bruce, the project manager.
The intention is to have the pavement in place by October when a plaque explaining the Mary Stanford story will be unveiled at a grand opening ceremony. Local schools, groups and many local firms and shops have already supported it by donating pebbles, paints and financial contributions. It is really good to see the community coming together for this commemoration.
As reported last week, Rye Castle Museum will also be supporting the project and Heather Stevenson, from the Museum has supplied some additional information:
This will be a free drop in event at the East Street premises, but donations would be gratefully received. Pebbles and paint will be provided and help will be on hand to choose a suitable nautical picture for the pebbles. All children and adults are welcome to this community venture. It is hoped to have enough painted pebbles in place by October for a grand opening.
Rye Museum has on display at both East Street and Ypres Tower, the story of the Mary Stanford lifeboat tragedy.
Do come along and support this worthwhile project
Image Credits: kt Bruce .