Ten illustrious founders of the Association of Men of Kent and Kentishmen (AMKKM) met in a London hotel in December 1897 to launch an organisation that would go on to promote and love the county for more than 125 years. It spawned branches across Kent and attracted many Establishment figures, including Lord-Lieutenants and other influencers of their day. HRH the Duke of Kent is its current Patron and the Lady Colgrain, Lord-Lieutenant of Kent, its President.

But as Bernard Thompson, a senior figure in the Association for many decades, explained to more than 25 attendees at the final talk of the 2024 Events Programme arranged by Maidstone Museums’ Foundation on Thursday November 14, it was not the first group to promote the county. It followed on from the Honourable Society of the Natives of Kent, which helped poorer people in the period 1656 – 1701. It has many achievements to celebrate, most notably perhaps a fundraising campaign, launched by Lord Cornwallis in 1940, for legendary Spitfire fighter aircraft. More than £100,000 was raised to form a Kent squadron of 22 Spitfires with names such as Fair Maid of Kent and Spirit of Kent. As Bernard said, it made “a significant contribution to the Battle of Britain.” Today, AMKKM has close links with Royal Navy Type 23 frigate HMS Kent.

There have been calls from time to time for its name to be changed to better reflect equal status for women – for example incorporating “Fair Maids of Kent.”  Bernard emphasised that despite any concerns over the name, many women are members and a Lady is its President. Membership has declined in recent years but the Association continues to host social events and talks, promote pride in Kent, and protect its heritage. Bernard said new members were always welcome. More at https://amkkm.org.uk