The Detailed History of R.A.F. Manston 1916-1930

Described by the Royal Air Force Journal as, "A rolling plain of rapidly rising crops with a few cottages here and there nestling amid the trees," this idyllic scene of Manston has been the place where numerous historical events have been played out. Such descriptions may be fitting of many historical sites or museums but none are better suited for an airfield than that of RAF Manston on the Isle of Thanet. It was the activities of some of the best known aviation pioneers who were responsible for the people of Thanet becoming 'aviation minded' and among these pioneers were Samuel Cody, Henri Salmet and Harry Hawker. The Royal Naval Flying Station at Eastchurch on the nearby Isle of Sheppey was established as early as November 1910. Had it not been for Eastchurch, it is highly unlikely that there would have been a Naval seaplane base at Westgate, and subsequently no airfield at Manston. Along with Biggin Hill, Hawkinge and North Weald, RAF Manston is best associated with The Battle of Britain, but that was just one of many events and roles that occurred during its 83-year history until it was sold off by the RAF in 1999. It is, however, still an active airfield and used regularly by the RAF. This book is the first out of a three volume set that provides a detailed account of Manston's history, and covers the formative period of 1916 to 1930. Of those cottages mentioned in the article published by the Royal Air Force, only one remains, but the mythical feeling of RAF Manston still exists.