A major restoration milestone has been celebrated at the Commissioner’s House in The Historic Dockyard Chatham, as partners, supporters and project teams gathered to mark the official topping out of the building and place a time capsule in its newly completed roof.
The Commissioner’s House, the oldest and most intact naval building in the country, is undergoing a multi-million-pound restoration to secure its future. The topping out ceremony marks the completion of extensive roof works, including the installation of 14 new dormer windows, and takes the project a step closer to the House reopening in summer 2026.
The time capsule was placed by Admiral Sir Trevor Soar KCB OBE DL, Chair of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust and Lord Mendoza CBE, Chair of Historic England. It contains stories, photographs, contemporary materials and personal reflections from the team working on the project, as well as two special packs of playing cards designed by members of the public. These were created in response to a Jack of Spades card discovered during the restoration, dating between 1725 – 1750, when Commissioner Kempthorne lived in the House. The capsule will remain hidden for 100 years, ready to be discovered by future custodians of the Dockyard.
Admiral Sir Trevor Soar, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, said, “The Commissioner’s House has stood at the heart of the Dockyard for over three centuries. This restoration ensures it will continue to play a central role in the story of Chatham for many more years to come. We have uncovered fascinating historic finds during this project and placing a time capsule today is our way of adding to that story. Whilst we do not know what the Historic Dockyard will look like in 100 years’ time, our work ensures that the Dockyard continues to thrive into the future, telling our story and preserving this unique place for future generations.”
Once complete, the Commissioner’s House will reopen as a premier hospitality destination, welcoming visitors, event guests and members of the community. For the first time, the House will also offer wider public access and feature new interpretation, sharing the stories of the resident Commissioners and the role the building played in the management and administration of the Dockyard.
To find out more visit www.thedockyard.co.uk.
