Exhibition tells story of local people and the River Thames

A new exhibition is opening at the Royal Berkshire Archives on Wednesday 11 June. It will run until Friday 29 August. The exhibition is free to visit.

It tells the story of people who live, work, and have fun on the River Thames. You can see old records, from the first people who lived near the river to people who use it today.

Some of the things on show include:

• minutes from the first meeting of the Thames Navigation Commission in 1771
• plans for locks and bathing huts
• items from local groups, such as Cookham Reach Sailing Club and Reading Regatta

One part of the exhibition shows how the river has inspired artists and writers. You can see poems, photos, and drawings. There’s even a school play programme for Kenneth Branagh's performance in Toad of Toad Hall.

The river also features as a source of local employment. Ted Light, lock keeper at Sonning from 1912 to 1946, won many awards for his stunning lock gardens. Family photographs show him and his family hard at work. Former Thames Conservancy employee, Alan Watson OBE, has shared his memories and donated various items for display. Items from the family of the late Dennis Boreham OBE help tell stories of flooding and fishing on the Thames.

Visitors can write down what the Thames means to them or share a memory. These will be added to the exhibition and saved when the exhibition closes.

Councillor Liz Terry, Reading Council Leader, said:

 “The River Thames has shaped the lives, livelihoods, and landscapes of our communities for generations.

“This exhibition is a celebration of that enduring connection — a chance to reflect on our shared heritage and the stories that flow through time alongside the river, bringing to life the voices and memories of local people, and invites everyone to contribute their own chapter to the Thames' remarkable story."

Royal Berkshire Archives is based at 9 Coley Avenue, Reading RG1 6AF. The archives are open to the public:

Tuesdays 9am to 5pm
Wednesdays 9am to 5pm
Thursday 9am to 5pm
Friday 9am to 4.30pm