2MT – Radio in Writtle Centenary Celebration

Marking 100 years since the world of radio broadcasting was born in Writtle.

Writtle 2MT Centenary Celebrations

Did you know that the world's first radio station started in Writtle in 1922? Called 2MT ("Two Emma Toc"), this humble – and somewhat experimental – enterprise operating from a small hut ultimately became the BBC as we know it today.

A programme of events for all the family will take place over this weekend in Writtle village centre to mark the occasion. CSES will be joining in the celebrations – see further details below.

In addition to the weekend activities, there will be:

A programme with full details and a map is available for £1, just ask at any of the venues.

Saturday 21 May (10:30-16:30)

Christian Centre

10:30 – Opening ceremony by Dave Monk, BBC Essex

Displays of radio equipment, schools' projects and rarely seen photos and archive material.

Centenary book and 2MT preserves on sale.

Hourly talks by CSES members and ex-Marconi employees, for the general public:

  • 12:00 – Inside the Writtle Hut (Peter Watkins)
  • 13:00 – From crystal sets to transistor radio (Paul Green)
  • 14:00 – Sounds and scenes of the 1920s (John Rhodes)
  • 15:00 – Aeroplanes and Writtle (Richard Herring)
  • 16:00 – Everything about 2MT! (Tim Wander)

Writtle Library

Children's craft drop-in sessions

All Saints Church

Marconi / Platt window display and video

The Green

Fun, hands-on activities for families and children with CSES.

Oxford University Mobile Museum on Marconi with digital displays, virtual experiments and a laboratory.

Writtle Wireless Walk: a circular walk at 13:00 and 15:00 from outside the Rose and Crown lasting approximately 90 minutes. Cost £5 including charity donation (children under 12 half price). Booking essential cityhistorywalks@gmail.com or ring Alan 07779 931401.

Vintage cars, food vans and 2MT Radio Wave Beer on sale.

Village Hall

Art display on the theme of the 1920s and radio by local artist groups.

Displays of photos and video from the junior school Light Parade in February 2022.

Special event station running with Chelmsford Amateur Radio Society (CARS).

Refreshments served by Writtle Women's Institute.

Sunday 21 May (12:00-16:30, church service 10:00)

All Saints Church

10:00 – A service of celebration led by the Bishop of Bradwell in the presence of other civic dignitaries. All are welcome.

12:00 – The church will remain open until 16:30 for viewing the Marconi / Platt window with videos. Tea and cake available from 14:00.

Christian Centre (12:00-16:30)

Displays of radio equipment, schools' projects and rarely seen photos and archive material.

Centenary book and 2MT preserves on sale.

Hourly talks by CSES members and ex-Marconi employees, for the general public:

  • 13:00 – From crystal sets to transistor radio (Paul Green)
  • 14:00 – Sounds and scenes of the 1920s (John Rhodes)
  • 15:00 – Aeroplanes and Writtle (Richard Herring)
  • 16:00 – Everything about 2MT! (Tim Wander)

The Green

Writtle Wireless Walk: a circular walk at 13:00 and 15:00 from outside the Rose and Crown lasting approximately 90 minutes. Cost £5 including charity donation (children under 12 half price). Booking essential cityhistorywalks@gmail.com or ring Alan 07779 931401.

When
21 May 2022, 10:30 to 22 May 2022, 16:30
Location
Writtle Christian Centre
Church Lane
Writtle
Chelmsford
Essex
CM2 3EN
United Kingdom
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