Teresa joins local celebrations for 300th anniversary of arrival of ‘real Robinson Crusoe’ in Erith

Teresa awaiting the arrival of Alexander Selkirk - photo courtesy of Hugh Neal

On Saturday 15 October Teresa joined celebrations for the 300th anniversary of the arrival of the ‘real Robinson Crusoe’ Alexander Selkirk in Erith following his rescue from a deserted island.

Selkirk came to Erith because it was a busy trading town with important shipping links throughout the world and near to the Port of London. The tri-centenary anniversary celebrations involved a recreation of Selkirk’s arrival where he was greeted by the Mayor of Bexley, local dignitaries, school children, the local army cadets, lots of local families and Teresa.

Many local business and schools participated in the celebrations exploring this important event in Erith’s history. Music for the ceremony was provided by Belvedere Junior School Choir and musicians from Rose Bruford College of Art and Music, Sidcup. Throughout the day Erith Riverside Shopping Centre also organised family events and the Erith and Belvedere Historical Society held history tours to promote Erith’s historic roots. The event was organised by Erith Town Forum and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Erith and was a big success.

Teresa said:

“The ‘real Robinson Crusoe’ is a fascinating part of our local history so it was great that hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the arrival of Alexander Selkirk in Erith.

 

“This was a really enjoyable community event and I’d like to thank Margaret O’Neil, Robyn Drummond, Erith Town Forum and the Rotary Club of Erith for putting on a great programme of events and helping more people learn about Erith’s historical roots.”

More photos from the day, including the arrival of Alexander Selkirk, can be seen on local blogger Arthur Pewty’s flickr page and website.

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