Above photo, 2016.

Above photo 2019.

The above plaque situated on "Ye Old Crown Inn" building says the following:- This is a 14th century building and is the only Inn in Kent to have a bridging sign spanning a road. The sign structure joins "Taylor House" which was formerly "The Griffin Inn" during the reign of King Henry VIII.

This building was used by notorious smugglers named "The Ramsey Gang."

A concealed passage upstairs contained several casks, with pipes attached leading to the Tap Room. These were discontinued when Excise men appeared on the scene.

Source: Prerogative Court of Canterbury, Probate 29 Dec 1707.

Andrew Firminger of Eaton Bridge, will dated 10 Apr 1707.

Eldest son Nicholas, property at Worth, Sussex occupied by Browne, lately purchased of John Howlman of Ardingly, Andrew, Elizabeth & Josiah, <21 children of my son Nicholas, son Andrew

Mary Firminger <22 daughter of Andrew, son Thomas & son John (executor)

Mary, Sarah & Anne <21 daughters of son John.

House at eaton Bridge called the "Griphen" with malthouse, stables etc.

Messuage at Linkfeild, Surrey occupied by John Bennett.

House lately purchased of John Faulkner in Chiddingstone.

Mr. William Saxpe of Eaton Bridge, overseer.

Witnesses Wills Benge - Edward Crittenden - Margaret Cole her mark.