Marrin's Bookshop

Item Description

Black and white chalk drawing, signed and dated. 6.5 x 8.25 inches, framed and glazed in conservation materials, overall size 11 x 12.5 inches.

Notes

A drawing of the building in Folkestone Harbour known as The Ark Café, which had been trading as dining rooms or a cafe since at least the 1920s. The view is facing east, with the railway arches behind The Ark visible on the left, and the tea chalet on the right. The Ark was a 17th century building, and the last survivor of the old Folkestone fishing village, and as such was listed by English Heritage. It was acquired by the late local fairground and amusement king Jimmy Godden in the 1980s. Under his ownership it immediately closed and remained empty and neglected. The building was allegedly 'damaged beyond repair' in the Great Storm of 1987, and was demolished the next day. The drawing style is simple and effective, and the records a scene which was familiar to Folkestonians and visitors until its untimely demise.