September is celebrated as Kingston's Heritage Month and in 2023, Kingston's Heritage Centre organised Open Days in several local institutions in the area that highlighted the rich history of Kingston over the years. FUSEBOX, situated right under the John Lewis departmental store in Kingston Town Centre, is a new multiarts space in Kingston run by Creative Youth Charity, launched in July 2023. It stands as both a creative space and a heritage site housing 12th century Saxon remains of the original foundations of Kingston Bridge as well as the 14th century Medieval Undercroft.
For Kingston's Heritage Month, I was keen on sharing its rich history through an audiovisual display at FUSEBOX as their Young Artist Ambassador. I, along with Krati Doshi - another ambassador, worked closely in collaboration with Kingston History Centre and Kingston Museum in conducting an in-depth research into the archives of Kingston Bridge - its past, present, and future. The Kingston Bridge has played a big part in making Kingston upon Thames popular as a marketplace. Since Kingston is right by the River Thames, the bridge helped people from different places come over easily to trade all sorts of goods and services. This made Kingston a lively spot where lots of different people met to do business. The bridge isn’t just a way to cross the river – it’s a big reason why Kingston became such an important place for trade.
In our exhibit for Kingston's Heritage Month, we delved into the pivotal role of Kingston Bridge in establishing the town as a thriving marketplace. More than a mere structure, the bridge has been a witness to and a participant in Kingston's evolving story. As traffic increased over the years, both in terms of people and vehicles, the bridge's foundation bore the brunt, leading to frequent breakdowns and escalating repair costs. This necessitated the imposition of toll charges, a decision that significantly impacted the community.
From the resource library at Kingston History Centre, we sourced archival photographs that vividly capture the public's response to these toll charges - from their initial resistance to the jubilant celebrations marking the toll's abolition on 12th March 1870. These images are more than historical records; they are windows into the resilient spirit of Kingston's people.
Such events, while seemingly small, are integral to understanding why Kingston remains one of the most contented places to live in London. They reflect the community's ability to come together, navigate challenges, and celebrate milestones. It is in these moments of unity and shared joy that the true essence of Kingston's social landscape is revealed. Our display aims not just to inform but to celebrate the enduring spirit and camaraderie that make Kingston a unique and cherished part of London's socio-cultural landscape.
