New exhibition celebrates 100 years of Port of London Authority

A new exhibition celebrates the work of the Port of London Authority (PLA) over the last 100 years. The exhibition - at the Museum of London Docklands - runs from 30 March to 19 April 2009.

PLA chief executive, Richard Everitt said:

"London isn't just one of Europe’s great cities - it's one of Europe's great ports. Since the first Londoners settled on the banks of the Thames, the river has fed, supplied and transported them. It still fulfils this vital task today under the stewardship of the Port of London Authority. For the last 100 years the PLA has battled through two world wars and a revolution in shipping, to ensure the river remains an economic powerhouse for the people of London and the south east. Now the Museum of London Docklands is telling its story. It's a tale of upheaval, change, sacrifice and, ultimately, success. It's the story of a port authority, its people, and a river that has evolved alongside the city it serves."

The exhibition at Museum of London Docklands offers a rare chance to see items from the extensive PLA archive and collections including never before seen footage of the Thames and a brand new film about the PLA's work.

The exhibition will also include:

• graphic panels with captioned images that capture chronological history and development of the PLA since 1909
• stories from the PLA staff, documenting their time working on the tidal Thames over the last 100 years
• the display of archive material including letters covering the PLA's role in Polar expeditions

David Spence, Director at Museum of London Docklands said:

"Our collection includes a significant amount of material from the PLA archive, so this celebration is part of our history too, a chance to showcase the important relationships we have with the varied organisations and people who play a vital part in Thames history."

'Port of London Authority: A Century of Service' runs from 30 March until 19 April 2009 at Museum of London Docklands.

Website: www.museumindocklands.org.uk