The pottery industry was established in this area in the LC18. There were 5 potters working at Kingsnorth or Alchurst Pottery in 1836. Production ceased in the area 1904-5 owing to the exhaustion of the clay. NGR TQ 893 390 (LO) (1) NGR centred on Potkiln Farm TQ 8995 3930. Works est by Anthony Paul, poss as early as 1625, though an Anthony Paul 'tileman' known from 1739 and earliest known ware (a cider jug) dated c1750. The Paul family seem to have been wealthy local landowners who operated the works, rather than actual potters. A deed of 1784 notes that the pot kiln was 'formerly a brickkiln' and refers to 'kiln work houses', claypits and members of the Farrance family as potters. In 1868 two Crock Kilns were sold. The High Halden industry featured several substantial works, prob all producing pots as well as tile and brick. The kilns were wood fired and the industry declined with the coming of the railway. (2)

<1> MD + later ceramic production + distribution in SE-England, vol 2, A. Streeten, 1986. (OS Card Reference). SKE46567.

<2> Not applicable, SMR Kent uncatalogued index entry, RH Goodsall A Third Kentish Patchwork 1970 pp 23-8 (Miscellaneous Material). SKE6440.