Ryde Social Heritage Group research the social history of the citizens of Ryde, Isle of Wight. Documenting their lives, businesses and burial transcriptions.
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University Student’s Visit

Vectis Hall January 2009

On Thursday 29th June 2017, Rithu Elizabeth, a student from Portsmouth University, came on a pre-arranged visit to the Ryde Cemetery Heritage & Learning Centre, to research information for her project, The History of Vectis Hall, Melville Street, Ryde, starting from when it was built as a Charity School in 1812.

Elizabeth arrived at 11 o’clock and remained a couple of hours, during which time she read and photographed a great deal of material from the Ryde Social Heritage Group Archives.

We contacted Richard Smout, Isle of Wight Heritage Services Manager, who readily agreed for her to arrange another visit to the Island to spend some time looking at old maps and rate books.

Elizabeth said we were the only group to respond to her request for assistance, and commented on the marvellous facility of the Learning Centre, and the archives for all to use.  She would like to come again.

Elizabeth wrote a pleasing message in the visitors’ book detailing the help that she had received from everybody.

Those present: Shelagh Gaylard, David Bushell, and Ann Barrett

Image source: Photographer unknown