Gills Green

Hawkhurst

Originally 2 cottages dating from 1615 it later became known as 'Staymakers' after a former innkeeper. It was frequented by members of the infamous Hawkhurst gang of smugglers. Re-named "Wellington Arms" in 1813 following alterations. In 2013 it again changed name to the "Great House."

Wikipedia states the following:- "The Hawkhurst gang included a nasty smuggler who's gang name was Staymaker, his real name was Thomas Kingsmill, he was hanged in 1749 at Tyburn and after hung in chains at Goudhurst." I am not sure whether the names re in anyway connected.

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