A UNIQUE digital tapestry will be created to mark the 100th anniversary of the Rugby site where the world’s first transatlantic phone call was made.
People living, learning and working in Houlton are being asked to contribute to the Houlton Tapestry project to celebrate the centenary of Rugby Radio Station.
The initiative, backed by Houlton’s master developer Urban&Civic, will see thousands of individual pictures combined to form one main mosaic-style image that will be displayed in the area for years to come.
The station building is now home to Houlton School.
Rugby Radio Station was decommissioned in 2002 but would have been 100 years old in 2026. It was formerly home to 12 820ft masts which helped pioneer global communications in the 1920s.
In 1927, Rugby Radio Station made the first transatlantic broadcast to Houlton, Maine, USA – after which the new neighbourhood is named. The station building is now home to Houlton School.
The Houlton Tapestry project is being put together by artist Allan Levy for the centenary. He and Urban&Civic are encouraging people to contribute their own images to be part of the tapestry, which will go on show at Houlton School, St Gabriel’s C of E School and Rugby Art Gallery and Museum.
Allan said: “This project is for everyone who works, lives or learns in Houlton. Whether you are an experienced photographer or artist or someone who has never tried anything like this before, we want your contribution. It’s all about showcasing the diverse voices and talents that make Houlton special.
“We want images that reflect your unique perspective on life in Houlton. Think about what inspires you and choose the medium that suits you best. Your image could be a photograph taken with your phone, a drawing, a painting. It’s really up to you.
“The picture could be a beautiful landscape, a cafe, the allotment, or even an abstract piece that expresses your feelings. The possibilities are endless.”
Johanne Thomas from Urban&Civic said the Houlton Tapestry project was the first of many projects which will mark the 100 year anniversary of Rugby Radio Station.
She added: “We’ll be continuing those celebrations in 2027 as it will be 100 years since that first iconic transatlantic broadcast.
“We’d love to receive as many pictures as possible from people who live, work, learn or have a connection with Houlton. These will be put together, along with images from our schools and community groups, into a mosaic which will be displayed in Houlton for years to come.
“We hope all those that share a fondness for the history of Rugby Radio Station get involved in this hugely significant part of local history.”
Visit https://rugbyradiostation.co.uk for more on the history of Rugby Radio Station.
Visit https://digitaltapestry.art for more information on the Houlton Tapestry project, and to contribute.
