Folkestone Arms, (Old) High Street 1780 - 1846

The former Folkestone Arms (right) with the coach house (left), as seen in the 1960s. Credit Folkestone Library

 

 

Licensees
James Bateman 1780 1786
George Janaway 1786 1808
Elizabeth Janaway 1808 1826
James Janaway 1826 1830
Daniel Hart Listed 1833 (May be wrong)

Daniel Cork 1829 1837

Thomas Golder 1837 ????   
Ann Brown Listed 1839
John Bamford 1842 1846

Kentish Gazette 23-9-1780

Advertisement: Folkestone Arms, (late the White Hart) Folkestone, James Bateman informs his friends and the public in general that he has completely rebuilt his house and fitted it up in the most genteel and commodious manner for the reception and accommodation of all who will do him the favour of their company.

He has also provided himself with a fresh assortment of liquors of every kind, and of the best sorts; he therefore humbly hopes for a continuance of that encouragement which, having long experienced he most gratefully acknowledges, and will endeavour to deserve in future.

Folkestone Sept. 22^nd, 1780

Kentish Gazette 20-1-1781

Advertisement: Notice: Whereas a black mare was put into the stable of the Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone, on Friday the 12^th, and has not been enquired after since, whoever can prove the said mare their property may have her again by paying the expenses.

Folkestone, Jan. 19, 1781.

Kentish Gazette 18-8-1781

Advertisement extract: To be sold publicly to the highest bidder, on Monday, the tenth day of September next, at two o`clock in the afternoon, at the Folkestone Arms, in the town of Folkestone, unless disposed of before by private contract, of which timely notice will be given: A messuage or tenement, with the barn, stable, outhouses, edifices and buildings, with the appurtenances thereto belonging, in good repair; in the parish of, and near or adjoining to the town of Folkestone aforesaid, in the occupation of Mr. John Baker, Brewer. 

Kentish Gazette 31-10-1786 

Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone: George Janaway, late of Hothfield, respectfully acquaints the nobility, gentry and the public that he has taken and genteelly fitted up the said inn, and humbly solicits the honour of their patronage and support, assuring them it will be his unremitting study to render every accommodation agreeable to those who may please to favour him with their commands.

Neat post-chaises, with able horses, on the shortest notice.

Kentish Gazette 3-4-1787 

The assignees of the estate and effects of Richard Elgar, late of Folkestone, in the County of Kent, Builder, Dealer, and Chapman, a bankrupt, give notice that they will attend from Ten till Twelve in the forenoon and from Two till Five in the afternoon, on Thursday, the 5^th day of April, 1787, at the Folkestone Arms, in the town of Folkestone, in order to pay a dividend of fifteen shillings in the pound, arising from the said bankrupt`s estate and effects.

Kentish Gazette 10-9-1790 

For sale, at the Folkestone Arms, in sundry lots, on Thursday, the 16^th day of September instant, about One o`clock in the afternoon, the undermentioned goods, viz:

170 gallons of foreign brandy

630 ditto of foreign Geneva

N.B. The goods were seized on the 17^th of August last; therefore will be found equally as good as when landed. 

Kentish Chronicle 14-1-1794 

John Marsh`s Bankruptcy:

The creditors who have proved their debts against John Marsh, late of Folkestone, in the County of Kent, tailor, draper, dealer and chapman, a bankrupt, may receive a final dividend from his estate by applying to the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, at two o`clock in the afternoon, on Tuesday, the 28<sup>th</sup> day of January instant, or afterwards at Mr. Reynold`s office, at Folkestone, solicitor to the Commission.

Folkestone, Jan. 13, 1794

Kentish Chronicle 11-9-1795 

Folkestone, Sept. 8: Yesterday William Knight Esq. was chosen Mayor of this town for the year ensuing. In compliment to our new Chief Magistrate, who is a lieutenant in the Volunteers, Captain Jordan and Capt. Penfold`s companies were drawn up before his house at ten o`clock and marched in procession to the church, where an excellent sermon was preached by the Rev. Mr. Timms, after which followed the election, when the Mayor and Corporation adjourned to a sumptuous dinner at the Folkestone Arms. At five o`clock in the afternoon the Volunteer companies were drawn up opposite the tavern, and fired three volleys on the occasion.

Kentish Chronicle 6-3-1798 

Saturday morning early three peace officers applied to J. Sladden, esq. mayor of Folkestone, and informed him they were in pursuit of a foreigner, who had been a short time resident with a fisherman in that town: the Mayor immediately attended them to the house, which was searched, but the person was not found. The officers describing some packages belonging to the person, they were found laying in the window of the house, and consisted of boxes made of mahogany, which, when opened, one was found new-made knives and forks; the second a quantity of tea; and in the third three letters with foreign directions for persons in Holland. The Mayor took charge of the letters, and the parties retired.

These circumstances being generally circulated through the town, infor­mation was brought to the Mayor, who was assembled with Mr. T. Baker and Mr. Stredwick, two other Magistrates, for the distribution of a public charity, that a person answering the description had slept the three pre­ceding nights at the Folkestone Arms Inn, who, it appeared, had departed early in the morning in seeming confusion; from the master of the inn they found the stranger had only lodged there, but boarded with the fisherman, who was sent for and upbraided for his du­plicity. He said the man had departed on foot, on the road to Ashford.

The three gentlemen immediately pursued, and learned that he had taken a chaise at Sandgate for Canterbury, which place he wished, if possible, to avoid, but was told he could not; they rode to this city with incredible dispatch, and calling on one of the Magistrates, imme­diate enquiry was made, and the person was found to have changed horses and departed from the Red Lion Inn about two hours. Colonel Cotterell, of the Here­ford regiment, who was at the time commanding in the city, being sent for, he instantly dispatched some light dragoons of the Oxford Cavalry, and Lieut. Mark, of his own corps, in pursuit. They traced the chaise to the King’s Head Inn at Rochester; but it appeared the person pursued had the pre­caution to quit the chaise at Chatham Hill, with an intent to pass unobserved through the towns. An imme­diate alarm being given, the people turned out in every direction; a corporal of the Oxford Dragoons, accom­panied by an officer of Marines, rode on towards the metropolis, and had the good fortune to overtake him about a half a mile from Strood, where he was walking on the public road. He was brought back and examined by R. Thompson, esq. the Mayor of Rochester, after which he was conveyed to the Secretary of State’s office, under proper guard.

Immediately on the departure of the dragoons from this city, the Magistrate took a regular deposition from the Mayor of Folkestone, which, with the three letters taken out of one of the boxes, was dispatched, by ex­press, to the Duke of Portland’s office, and we make no doubt preceded the arrival of the party.

Much praise is due to the Mayor and the two gentlemen of Folkestone, for their vigilant pursuit, and we must add, we think them deservedly entitled to the thanks of their country. Whilst such vigilance is shewn by the people, and a zealous attention is paid to every attempt at secret correspondence, we have little to fear. And we doubt not but a strict look out will be kept on vessels of every description departing from our ports by the Government cutters &c.

It is said the Captain of a vessel in Dover harbour had accepted of a fee to carry this person over; the vessel was to have waited in the Folkestone roads, where he intended to have embarked. The Captain is said to be in custody.

The foreigner’s name is Benedict Theot; he had been for some time resident in Jermyn Street, Westminster,^- and is conjectured to be implicated with the suspected persons apprehended at Margate, which occasioned him to make an attempt of quitting the kingdom. He was brought to the Duke of Portland’s office about twelve o’clock on Saturday night, after which he was lodged at the Parliament Coffee Hlouse, and was to undergo an examination yesterday before the Privy Council.

Kentish Gazette 6-3-1798 

Saturday morning early three peace officers applied to J. Sladden, esq. mayor of Folkestone, and informed him they were in pursuit of a foreigner, who had been a short time resident with a fisherman in that town: the Mayor immediately attended them to the house, which was searched, but the person was not found; some pack­ages however belonging to him were discovered by the officers, lying in one of the windows, consisting of boxes made of mahogany, which on being opened, in the first were some new-made knives and forks; in the second a quantity of tea; and in the third three letters with foreign directions for persons in Holland. The Mayor took charge of the letters, and the parties retired.

These circumstances being generally circulated, infor­mation was given to the Magistrates, that a person answering the description given had slept the three pre­ceding nights at the Folkestone Arms Inn, who had departed early in the morning in seeming confusion; he had only lodged at the inn, but boarded with the fisherman, who, being sent for and reprimanded for his du­plicity, said the stranger had gone, on foot, the road to Ashford.

The Mayor, Mr. T. Baker, and Mr. Stredwick, immediately pursued, and learned that he had taken a chaise at Sandgate for Canterbury, which place he wished, if possible, to avoid, but was told he could not; they rode to this city with incredible dispatch, and calling on one of the Magistrates, imme­diate enquiry was made, and the person was found to have changed horses and departed from the Red Lion Inn about two hours. Colonel Cotterell, of the Here­ford regiment, then commanding in the city, being sent for, he instantly dispatched some light dragoons of the Oxford Cavalry, and Lieut. Mark, of his own corps, in pursuit. They traced the chaise to the King’s Head Inn at Rochester; but the person pursued had the pre­caution to quit the chaise at Chatham Hill, with an intent to pass through the towns unobserved. An imme­diate alarm being given, the people turned out in every direction; a corporal of the Oxford Dragoons, accom­panied by an officer of Marines, rode on towards the metropolis, and had the good fortune to overtake him about a mile and a half from Strood, where he was walking on the public road. He was brought back and examined by R. Thompson, esq. the mayor of Rochester, after which he was conveyed to the Secretary of State’s office, under a proper guard.

Immediately on the departure of the dragoons from this city, the Magistrate took a regular deposition from the Mayor of Folkestone, which, with the three letters taken out of one of the boxes, was dispatched, by ex­press, to the Duke of Portland’s office, and we make no doubt preceded the arrival of the party.

Much praise is due to the Mayor and the two gentlemen of Folkestone, for their vigilant pursuit, and we must add, we think them deservedly entitled to the thanks of their country. Whilst such vigilance is shewn by the people, and a zealous attention is paid to every attempt at secret correspondence, we have little to fear. And we doubt not but a strict look out will be kept on vessels of every description departing from our ports.

It is laid the Captain of a vessel in Dover harbour had actually accepted of a fee to carry this man over; the vessel was to have waited in Folkestone roads, where he intended to have embarked. The Captain is said to be in custody.

The foreigner’s name is Benedict Theot, he had been for some time resident in Jermyn Street, Westminster,^- and is conjectured to be implicated with the suspected persons apprehended at Margate, which occasioned him to make an attempt of quitting the kingdom. He was brought to the Duke of Portland’s office about twelve o’clock on Saturday night, after which he was lodged at the Parliament Coffee Hlouse, and was to undergo an examination yesterday before the Privy Council.

Kentish Chronicle 28-2-1804 

Lost, stolen or strayed, from Folkestone, on Saturday last, a white pointer dog, with liver-coloured head, and a large liver-coloured spot on one side, and answers to the name of Don.

Any person who shall bring the said dog to the Folkestone Arms, Folkestone, shall receive a reward of two Guineas, and anyone found detaining him after this notice will be prosecuted to the utmost rigour of the law.

Feb. 20, 1804.

Folkestone Chronicle 11-9-1804 

On Saturday last Thomas Baker Esq. was elected Mayor of Folkestone for the year ensuing. After the election, the Corporation and many other gentlemen of the town partook of a handsome dinner provided at the Folkestone Arms Inn, and the remainder of the day was spent with the utmost conviviality. 

Kentish Gazette 8-4-1808

Advertisement

NOTICE.

The Creditors of Thomas Rouse, of Folkestone, are requested to meet the Trustees of his estate and effects on Monday next, the 11th day of this instant, April, at the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, at 3 o’clock in the afternoon.

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 25-4-1808

Before Thomas Baker (Mayor), Joseph William Knight, John Castle, John Gill, John Bateman and James Major.

The following person was fined for having short measures in their possession, viz.:

George Janeway 2/6

Kentish Chronicle 10-5-1808 

Death: May 7^th, at Folkestone, at an advanced age, Mr. George Janeway, of the Folkestone Arms In

Kentish Gazette 13-5-1808

Obituary

Died, May 7^th, at Folkestone, at an advanced age, Mr. George Janeway, landlord of the Folkestone Arms inn.

Kentish Gazette 25-11-1808

Advertisement

To be peremptorily sold by Auction, at the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, on Friday, the 2^nd day of December next, at two o`clock (unless disposed of by private contract, of which notice will be given);

All that substantial Freehold messuage or tenement, with the wash-house and joint use of the yard, well therein, and passage from the street thereto, with the adjoining messuage or tenement and premises of Mr. Paul Rayner, situate, lying, and being in Dover Street, Folkestone, and now in the occupation of Mr. William Moon.

Further particulars may be had of Mr. Knocker, attorney at law, Dover.

Kentish Gazette 29-11-1808

Advertisement

The estate at Folkestone, advertised to be sold at the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, on Friday, the 2^nd day of December, is disposed of by private contract.

Kentish Gazette 26-12-1809

Advertisement

To be sold by Auction, on Wednesday next, 27^th December, at noon, at the Folkestone Arms, Folkestone: The Hull of His Majesty`s Gun-Brig, Defender, which has been driven on shore at Cock Point, near Folkestone.

Conditions will be made known at the time of sale.

J. Trounsell, Naval Officer, Deal, 23^rd Dec., 1809.

Kentish Gazette 12-1-1810

Auction Advertisement

To be sold by Auction, by Mr. David Major

On Tuesday, the 16^th day of January instant, at two o`clock in the afternoon, at the Folkestone Arms, Folkestone, subject to such conditions as will be then and there produced, the following Freehold and Copyhold Premises:

Lot 1: All that freehold messuage or tenement, with a convenient room behind the same, and garden thereto adjoining, situate and being in George Lane, Folkestone, now in the occupation of Mr. John Butcher.

Lot 2: All that freehold messuage or tenement, with the ground and appurtenances thereto belonging, situate and being in Fancy Street, in Folkestone aforesaid, now in the occupation of Mr. John Butcher.

Lot 3: All that copyhold messuage or tenement, lately used as a baker`s shop, desirably situated in Radnor Street, in Folkestone aforesaid, now or late in the occupation of Mr. Thomas Mummery.

Further particulars may be known by applying at the office of Messrs. Tournay, Hythe.

 

Kentish Gazette 22-6-1810

Auction Advertisement

On Monday, the 2^nd day of July, 1810, at the sign of the Folkestone Arms, at two o`clock in the afternoon, the following Freehold Premises, situate and being within the parish and town of Folkestone and the liberty thereof, in the following lots, subject to the conditions of sale to be then and there produced:

Lot 1: A piece of pasture land, part of a piece of land, now in one piece, formerly in two pieces, lying at or near a place called the Forstall, in the parish and within the liberty of the town of Folkestone, as the same is now stumped off from Lot 2, and contains three acres and one rood, more or less, now in the tenancy of Wilson Wiles.

Lot 2: A piece of pasture land, part of and the residue of the said piece of land, now in one piece, and formerly in two pieces, adjoining Lot 1, as the same is now stumped off from Lot 1, and adjoins the Wheeler`s shop there, and contains three acres and one rood, more or less, now also in the tenure of the said Wilson Wiles. A fence is to be made between Lots 1 and 2, as it is now stumped off, by, and at the joint expense of the purchasers of Lots 1 and 2.

Lot 3: A piece or parcel of pasture land, called Round Close, lying and being at or near a certain place called Foord, near and adjoining Park Lane, in the parish of Folkestone, containing one acre, more or less, now in the tenure or occupation of William Brann or his undertenants.

Lot 4: Two tenements, formerly in one, with the barn, stable, gardens, and one piece or parcel of meadow or pasture land, to the same belonging, containing in the whole five acres, more or less, situate and being in the said parish of Folkestone, now in the occupation of the said William Brann, or his undertenants.

The last lot, to which there is a good road at a short distance from the turnpike roads from Dover to Sandgate and from Folkestone to Canterbury, is particularly well-adapted for a tanner`s yard or fellmonger`s yard (part of which was formerly used in that trade), or for erecting a mill, as a strong and constant stream of water runs through the premises.

The tenants are tenants at will, and have notice to quit at Michaelmas next. The land tax is redeemed.

Further particulars may be known by applying to Mr. Reynolds, Attorney, Folkestone, Kent.

 

Kentish Gazette 22-1-1811

Advertisement

The creditors of Mr. William Reynolds, late of Folkestone, attorney at law, deceased, are requested to meet at the Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone aforesaid, on Wednesday, the 30^th day of January instant, at twelve o`clock at noon, and such creditors who hold mortgages, bonds, notes or other securities are requested to present the same at the meeting.

Kentish Gazette 25-1-1811

Advertisement

The creditors of Mr. William Reynolds, late of Folkestone, attorney at law, deceased, are requested to meet at the Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone aforesaid, on Wednesday, the 6^th day of February next, at twelve o`clock at noon, and such creditors who hold mortgages, bonds, notes or other securities are requested to present the same at the meeting.

Folkestone, 24^th Jan. 1811.

Kentish Gazette 26-2-1811

Advertisement

The creditors of Mr. William Reynolds, late of Folkestone, attorney at law, deceased, are requested to meet at the Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone aforesaid, on Friday, the 1^st day of March next, at one o`clock in the afternoon, on important business relative to his concerns, and to execute the deed approved of at the first meeting of the creditors.

Folkestone, 25^th February, 1811.

 

Kentish Gazette 27-8-1811 

Assizes, Friday, August 23, before a special Jury

The King v Richard Hambrook

This was an indictment against the defendant for aiding in the escape of prisoners of war from Chesterfield, and for that purpose harbouring them in his house at Folkestone.

Mr. Serjeant Shepherd opened the case on behalf of the prosecution. The prisoner kept a small public house, called the Blue Anchor, so the question to be decided was whether the defendant was aiding in the escape of the prisoners in question, named Chanmont, Latardie, Jessileux, J.B. Marten, Laddie, Nutali and Bouet.

Mr. John Bouser, agent for the French prisoners of war at Chesterfield, deposed that all the above-named persons, except Bouet, were on their parole at Chesterfield, and absented themselves on the 18^th of September last. The prisoners were brought into court and identified.

Lieut. Christie, of His Majesty`s sloop Cordelia, saw a boat on the night of the 22^nd Sept., which they brought to, after having fired at, although the person in it answered on being hailed that it was a Folkestone boat. There was a jar on board with some ale in it, and bread and rum, together with a large deal box. Next morning the witness sent them to the flagship on the Downs.

James Butler deposed that he was chaise driver at the Fountain Inn, in Canterbury, and on the evening of the – Sept., three gentlemen came there in a chaise, and the witness was desired to drive them to the Blue Anchor, an inferior inn at Folkestone. He there saw the landlord, the defendant, who told the gentlemen, who had got out of the chaise, that he had got lodgings for them (on the question being put to him), but not in his own house. He had made no previous enquiry of them, or had any other conversation. The deal box they brought, they left till the landlord came back, when he paid the witness for the chaise, and desired him to put the box into his house. He also asked if the witness knew if there were any more coming, to which he replied in the negative. The witness had seen the box taken out of a boat at sea, which was the same as that he carried in the chaise.

Sherwood, another driver at the Fountain Inn, at Canterbury, said that on the 19^th Sept., a chaise came in from Sittingbourne, and the witness drove them to Folkestone. The witness took them to the Folkestone Arms, but they were shown down the road to the Blue Anchor by Janeway, the son of the landlord of the Folkestone Arms. When they got out he saw that they were foreigners and he recognised none of them.

James Janeway conducted the foreigners from the Folkestone Arms to the Blue Anchor. They were all gone to bed, but Hambrook opened the door, and the gentlemen went in without having any conversation. The Blue Anchor was a small ale-house.

Sally Newman, servant to Hambrook, deposed that they had only one spare room in the house, that she remembered the foreigners coming, and identified the deal box taken from the chaise.

Thos. Mantell Esq., resident Agent for the Transport Board at Dover: He went on board the Guard ship on the Downs, hearing that the foreigners` boat, the Cat, had been taken. He saw the gentlemen and M. Bouet, who had made his escape.

Mr. Gurney made a most able address to the Jury on behalf of the defendants. He maintained that there was not the slightest evidence to affect the defendant, or to say that he was aiding those men in escaping. If Hambrook could be found Guilty, he would venture that there was not an innkeeper between Chesterfield and Folkestone who furnished a post-chaise or a lodging for the night who might not be indictable. Under the maxim of English law, that all men were deemed innocent till it were proved they were Guilty, were to be laid aside, the Jury could not come to the dreadful conclusion that the defendant was the base, disloyal subject to assist the enemies of his King and country. He then entered into the particulars of the evidence to show that there was nothing in it which showed that the defendant was aiding and assisting in the escape of prisoners of war.

Lord Ellenborough detailed the evidence delivered, dwelling particularly on the expressions used by the landlord, which His Lordship thought very equivocal, and he left it to the Jury to draw what inference they thought proper. His Lordship was much surprised that the French prisoners had not been called for the defendant.

Verdict: Guilty on the first count of concealing and secreting French prisoners of war.

 

Kentish Gazette 13-12-1811

Advertisement

To be sold by auction at the Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone, on Monday, the 30^th day of December instant, at two o`clock in the afternoon, by David Major, the following freehold estates in lots:

Lot 1: A capital dwelling house, with the stable, yard, convenient garden and appurtenances, situate in Church Street, in Folkestone, forming a very desirable family residence, and now in the occupation of Mrs. Jordan.

Lot 2: A dwelling-house and shop, very desirably situated for trade, in High Street in Folkestone, with the garden, backside, appurtenances thereunto belonging, now in the occupation of Thomas Johnson.

Lot 3: A messuage and small garden, situate upon The Bayle, in Folkestone, in the occupation of Richard Benfield.

Lot 4: The scite and materials of part of an old building, adjoining the last-mentioned lot, containing 25 feet and five inches in front, and 72 feet in depth, in the occupation of Thomas Weekes.

Lot 5: The remaining part of the scite and materials of the said old building, of the same dimensions as the last lot, in the occupation of John Tart.

Lot 6: A messuage and garden, adjoining the last lot, in the occupation of Richard Major.

Lot 7: A small messuage and garden, adjoining the one last mentioned, now in the occupation of William Benfield.

Lot 8: A messuage, yard and appurtenances, in North Street, in Folkestone, now in the occupation of William Andrews.

Lot 9: A dwelling-house and shop, very eligibly situated for trade, in the main street of Hythe, with the yard, stable and appurtenances thereunto belonging, now in the occupation of ---- Watts.

 

Kentish Gazette 10-1-1812

Advertisement

To be sold by auction on Tuesday, the fourth day of February, 1812, at twelve o`clock at noon, at the Folkestone Arms Inn, in Folkestone, by David Major, in one lot;

A modern and substantially built Freehold mansion house, the late residence of Mr. William Reynolds, Attorney at Law, deceased, situate on the beautiful rising ground near the town of Folkestone, on the turnpike road leading from thence to Hythe, commanding on the landside a picturesque view of the adjoining country, and in front extensive sea prospect, and a long range of the French coast.

 The house, which with corresponding wings, forms a very handsome elevation, comprises on the ground floor a spacious dining room, drawing room, and four good parlours, six airy and well proportioned chambers, with a dressing room on the second floor; on the attic storey, three good chambers and a laundry. The basement storey comprises two kitchens and a dairy, excellent cellarage and other suitable conveniences. The offices attached and detached are nume­rous and convenient, comprising a coach-house, capacious stabling, &c., with an excellent garden, encompassed by a twelve feet wall, clothed with choice fruit trees in high per­fection. The house is fitted up in a handsome style, is in perfect repair, and altogether forms a most beautiful and complete residence for a family of distinction.

Also a rich meadow adjoining the house, containing about three acres and a half, fenced round with flourishing young quick, and a valuable piece of orchard and meadow land, adjoining the turnpike road and extending from the house to the town of Folkestone, containing in length 276 feet, and in depth 174 feet, most beautifully situated, from its extensive land and sea prospect, for building.

Immediate possession may be had, and particulars known of Mr. Shipdem, Solicitor, Dover, Mr. Mount, Solicitor, Canterbury, and Mr. Webb, Solicitor, Folkestone.

 

Kentish Gazette 17-4-1812

Auction Advertisement

To be sold by Auction, on Monday, the fourth day of May next, between the hours of twelve and one in the forenoon, at the Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone, by David Major,

All that spacious and substantially-built dwelling house, the late residence of Mr. William Reynolds, deceased, most delightfully situated on the rising ground, near the town of Folkestone, by the side of the turnpike road leading from thence to Hythe, with the front court and back garden. As the whole premises have been planned and divided into lots, forming three very desirable residences.

Also, the valuable piece of garden ground on the south side of the said dwelling House, adjoining the turnpike, road, being encompassed by a substantial and high wall, which is clothed with the choicest fruit trees.

A plan of the dwelling house, as divided, may be seen by applying to Mr. Webb, Solicitor, Folkestone, of whom, and of Mr. Shipden, Solicitor, Dover, Mr. Mount, Solici­tor, Canterbury, further particulars may be known.

 

Kentish Gazette 29-5-1812

Advertisement (Part)

To Brewers and others; To be sold by Auction, by Ayerst and Reeve, at the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, on Monday, the 22^nd day of June, 1812, at four o`clock in the afternoon:

Lot 1: All that freehold, well-accustomed public house and premises called the Folkestone Lugger, with a large piece of ground adjoining, situate in Cowgate Street, in the Town of Folkestone, in the occupation of Francis Poskett, who has had notice to quit at Michaelmas next.

Note: Date is at Variance with More Bastions.

 

Kentish Gazette 21-7-1812

On Thursday evening, the 16^th inst., as Mr. And Mrs. Nicholson, of Lewes, were descending Folkestone Hill in a single horse chaise, he, thinking it safer to lead the horse down, gave the reins to Mrs. N. previous to his getting out, which unfortunately dropped from her hold, and the spirited animal finding himself at liberty, was in the act of setting off at full speed, when Mr. N., by a sudden spring, caught the reins, and in his endeavours to stop him overturned the vehicle, by which accident Mrs. N. sustained considerable injury, and now lies confined at the Folkestone Arms Inn. Mr. N. had the good fortune to escape with only a slight bruise on each thigh, although the horse knocked him down and rode over him, and nothing of the chaise remains whole but the wheels and springs.

Kentish Gazette 11-8-1812 

Assizes, Civil Side, 7^th August, 1812. The King v Wm. Hall

This was an information against the defendant for aiding in the escape of three French prisoners ofn the names of Bryant, Desbarot and Crouchant.

Mr. Sergeant Shepherd, in stating the case on the part of the prosecution, impressed upon the jury the high nature of the crime of which the defendant had been guilty. It could be considered little short of treason, since it was aiding most essentially the enemies of this country, under the protection of whose laws and Government the defendant resided. It was fortunate for him that the offence complained of was committed previous to the operation of a late Act of Parliament, or he might have been proceeded against, not for a misdemeanour, but for a felony. The facts of this case were as follow: Between the 1^st and 7^th September last, the three French prisoners above named escaped from their parole at Ashbourne, and arrived at Folkestone on the following day. They breakfasted at the Folkestone Arms Inn, and soon afterwards were heard of no more until they were picked up by the boats of the Appelles sloop of war just before they reached the harbour of Boulogne. They were in an open boat, disguised as sailors, and upon the stern of their boat was written “The Stag of Folkestone.” The way in which the defendant was connected with the case was that he had purchased the Stag of a poor woman, of the name of Kite, at Folkestone, for the sum of £11, when its intrinsic worth was only £3 10s., and had sold it to thje French prisoners for £30. As these offences had of late become extremely numerous, the Government had felt it its duty to prosecute the defendants, who, if the evidence were complete, must be found Guilty.

The witnesses were then called, but although they proved that Hall had purchased the boat of Mrs. Kite, they failed in showing any connection between the defendant and the prisoners, except that they were picked up off Boulogne in the same boat.

Mr. Bolland, for the defendant, submitted that the defendant must on this defect of testimony be acquitted.

Lord Ellenborough, however, was of the opinion that this was a fit case to go to the jury, and Mr. Bolland in consequence addressed them, insisting that his client ought to be discharged, since the only proof was that the prisoners were in a boat which the defendant had bought, and which might, for anything that appeared, had been stolen from him. Supposing he had bought the boat at above its value, he might require it on an emergency for the purpose of smuggling.

Lord Ellenborough charged the jury, and after a long consultation a verdict of Guilty was returned.

The prisoner assure the Court that he was innocent, and protested against the hardship of the decision.

Kentish Gazette 25-8-1812

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Folkestone, to be sold by Auction, by Ayerst and Reeve;

At the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, on Thursday, the tenth day of September, 1812, at one o'clock in the afternoon, in one lot (unless previously disposed of by private contract, of which notice will be given in this paper)

All that Freehold piece or parcel of land, called Red Gate Field, containing by a late admeasurement 12 a. 3r. 37 p. little more or less, lying within half a mile of the town of Folkestone, on the turnpike road leading from thence to Hythe, commanding on the sea-side a long range of the French coast, and an extensive sea prospect; and in front, a fine view of the adjoining country, being most eligibly situated for building on.

Possession may be had at Michaelmas next, and half part of the purchase money may remain on mortgage, if required.

For further particulars apply at the Office of Messrs. De Lasaux and Boghurst, Solicitors, Ashford, who are autho­rised to treat for the sale by private contract.

 

Kentish Gazette 11-9-1812

Tuesday last being the Mayor`s choice for the town of Folkestone, Thomas Baker esq. was elected to the chair, who, after taking the necessary oaths, adjourned to the Folkestone Arms Inn, accompanied by the Jurats and the Primoris Offidi, where a sumptuous and well served up dinner was prepared for them. After the cloth was drawn the following toasts, &c., were pronounced from the chair: “The King and God Bless Him”, “The Prince Regent, and under his benign auspices may the Imperial Eagle be experimentally taught to play the wing at the roaring of the British Lion”, “The Queen and Royal Family”, “The Army and Navy”, “Alexander, and may the Gallick Cock be finally brought to feel the ascending influence of the Northern Constellation”, &c. Thus passed on the fleeting hour, interspersed with the convivial song and merry joke, until Nox was contemplating to withdraw her sombre curtain from the dusky landscape, which suggested to the company the idea of “ite domum”, and on which they unanimously arose, and congratulated the worth Mayor on his tenth election to the honour of the white wand.

Kentish Chronicle 15-9-1812 

On Tuesday last Thomas Baker Esq. was chosen Mayor of Folkestone for the year ensuing, and has appointed Thomas Farley Esq. his deputy. Mr. John Hart was, at the same time, elected Chamberlain. At three o`clock the Corporation sat down to an elegant dinner at the Folkestone Arms, supplied by Mrs. Janeway, where the utmost harmony and conviviality prevailed until a late hour. This is the tenth time Mr. Baker has been elevated to the civic chair by his fellow townsmen.

Kentish Gazette 29-9-1812

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To be peremptorily let to the highest bidder, by Ayerst and Reeve at the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, on Saturday the 10^th day of October, 1812, at four o'clock in the afternoon, subject to such conditions as shall then be produced, (unless previously sold by private contract, of which notice will be given in this paper) for the term of seven years;

All that piece or parcel of arable land called or known by the name of Red Gate Field, containing by estimation 15 acres, little more or less, lying within half a mile of the town of Folkestone, and now in the occupation of Mr. Wiles, who quits possession at Michaelmas next.

For further particulars apply at the office of Messieurs De Lasaux and Boghurst, Solicitors, Ashford.

Kentish Gazette 6-10-1812

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To be peremptorily let to the highest bidder, by Ayerst and Reeve at the Folkestone Arms, in Folkestone, on Monday the 12^th day of October, 1812, instead of Saturday the 10^th, as before advertised, at four o'clock in the afternoon, subject to such conditions as shall then be produced, for the term of seven years;

All that piece or parcel of arable land called or known by the name of Red Gate Field, containing by estimation 15 acres, little more or less, lying within half a mile of the town of Folkestone, and now in the occupation of Mr. Wiles, who quits possession at Michaelmas next.

For further particulars apply at the office of Messieurs De Lasaux and Boghurst, Solicitors, Ashford.

Kentish Gazette 12-2-1813 

Court of King`s Bench, Wednesday, Feb. 10. The King v Edwards

The defendant in this case had been taken up on an attachment, and was this day brought up to hear the Master`s report, and was reported in contempt.

Mr. Justice Le Blanc stated that the prisoner was reported by the Master of the Crown Office to be in contempt, and for that contempt was now to receive the judgement of the Court, a subpoena having been served upon him to attend the trial of a person of the name of Hall, who was indicted for assisting the escape of certain French prisoners.

That the prisoner was a chaise driver at Ashford and drove the French prisoners to Folkestone, and from whence the prisoners escaped, and was, of course, a most material witness. That the prisoner contemptuously, as was reported by the Master, had refused to attend, wishing to prevent the justice of the country from overtaking the criminal. That, although Hall had been found Guilty without the evidence of the prisoner, his crime was not the less; and His Lordship said he wished it to be understood that it was a most serious offence for any person to refuse to attend on a subpoena on the ground that an exorbitant sum may not be granted to them for their expenses, which was not a valid excuse, and which demand was made only to cloak the real intent.

It was necessary, his Lordship said, to shew that prosecutions were not to be abated at the will of an individual, either by his refusing to attend on the part of the Crown, to give evidence against the defendant, or vindicate his innocence by appearing on the part of the accused. His Lordship then adjudged that the prisoner should be committed to the gaol of Maidstone for the space of six months.

Kentish Chronicle 19-2-1813 

On Monday was fully committed to Folkestone gaol, by Thomas Baker Esq., Mayor, Francis Grimm, private in the 52^nd Regiment, charged on the oath of John Hitchcock, with stealing three pairs of new shoes from the Folkestone Arms Inn, his property 

Kentish Gazette 4-5-1813 

On Saturday last, pursuant to his sentence at the late General Sessions of the Peace for the town and port of Folkestone, Francis Grimm, a private in the 52^nd Regiment of Foot was whipped at the cart`s tail for the space of 100 yards for stealing a pair of new shoes from the ostler of the Folkestone Arms inn. When stripped, the appearance of his back announced him to have been an old offender, as between his shoulders conspicuously appeared the marks of a former severe flagellation.

Kentish Gazette 10-9-1813 

Wednesday being the Mayor`s choice for the town of Folkestone, James Major Esq. was elected to the chair, who, after taking the usual oaths, adjourned with the Corporation to the Folkestone Arms Inn, where was prepared for them a sumptuous and well served up dinner.

Kentish Gazette 21-5-1833 

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To be sold cheap, a neat, strong Stanhope and Harness. Apply to the Ostler, Folkestone Arms Inn, Folkestone.

Kentish Chronicle 4-3-1834 

On Tuesday evening last Folkestone was enlivened by a card and quadrille assembly held at the Guildhall Rooms. Dancing and hilarity prevailed till a late hour. The music and refreshments furnished by Mr. Cork, of the Folkestone Arms Inn, gave much satisfaction to a numerous and highly delighted party.

Note: Does not appear in More Bastions

Canterbury Weekly Journal 22-4-1837 

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Capital Hotel in Folkestone, Kent.

To be disposed of with immediate possession, the lease and goodwill of the well-known, and long-established Free Inn, called the Folkestone Arms, together with the spacious and convenient Coach Houses and Satbles adjoining thereto. The fixtures, stock, furniture, plate, linen, china &c., to be taken at a valuation.

For further particulars apply to Mr. R.W. Watson, Solicitor, Dover, or Messrs. Brockman and Watts, Solicitors, Folkestone.

Dover, April 19^th, 1837

Dover Telegraph 28-1-1837 

Advertisement: Edward Pierson, Folkestone Arms Inn and Commercial Hotel. Edward Pierson, having succeeded Mr. D. Cork in this establishment, respectfully solicits the respect of his friends, and the patronage of the nobility and gentry, the agricultural and commercial interests, and the public in general.

Genuine wines, foreign spirits, bottled ale and porter.

Well-aired beds and good stall stabling.

Note: Neither Cork nor Pierson appear in More Bastions

Dover Chronicle, Dover Telegraph 22-4-1837 

Advertisement: Capital Hotel in Folkestone, Kent. To be disposed of with immediate possession, the lease and goodwill of the well-known and long-established Free Inn, called the Folkestone Arms, together with the spacious and convenient coach houses and stables adjoining thereto. The fixtures, stock, furniture, plate, linen, china, &c., to be taken at a valuation.

For further particulars apply to Mr. R.W. Watson, Solicitor, Dover, or Messrs. Brockman and Watts, Solicitors, Folkestone.

Dover, April 19^th, 1837

Dover Telegraph 13-5-1837

Advertisement: To be sold by auction, by Mr. David Godden, on Wednesday, the 17^th of May, 1837 and following days, on the premises, at the Folkestone Arms Inn, in Folkestone, (under an execution), household furniture and other effects: comprising four-post and tent bedsteads and hangings, feather beds, mattresses, blankets, counterpanes, high and low chests of drawers, mahogany, painted and other chairs, mahogany dining, Pembroke, Card, and other tables, mantel, pier and chamber glasses, Brussels, Kidderminster and other carpets, sofa, mahogany sideboard, an eight-day and 30 hour clocks, wash-hand stands, mahogany desk, Moreen and other window curtains, sheets, tablecloths and pillow cases, plated candlestick and other articles, decanters, tumblers, rummers, wine glasses, Register and other stoves, fenders and fire irons, kitchen range, coppers, copper and iron boilers, tea kettles, saucepans, knives and forks, meat screens, a quantity of dishes, plates, tureens, earthenware and other kitchen utensils, also divers articles belonging to the coach house, stables and wash house.

The sale to commence each day at ten o`clock.

Folkestone, 8^th May, 1837.

Kentish Gazette 14-8-1838

Advertisement: To Publicans, Brewers and Others, To Let, a very capital Free Inn, with excellent stabling, situated in one of the principal streets in Folkestone, where the excise office is held, rent moderate, incoming can be reduced to £100, and the most satisfactory reasons will be given for the present tenant leaving.

For further particulars apply to Mr. Friend, Auctioneer, Northgate Street, Canterbury, or to Mr. Goulder, boat-builder, Folkestone. Letters to be post paid.

Folkestone Arms

Kentish Gazette 27-10-1840

The Mayor, magistrates, and members of the council, together with a numerous company of gentlemen belonging to Folkestone and its vicinity, partook of a dinner at the Folkestone Arms Inn, on Wednesday, the 14^th instant, in celebration of the nuptials of Lord Folkestone and the Lady Mary Grimstone. The dinner was served up in excellent style, and the hilarity of the meeting was sustained until a late hour

Dover Telegraph 27-9-184

On Tuesday evening, about 9 o`clock, as Mr. Holley, employed in constructing coke ovens for the Railway Company, was passing from the Bail into the town, he missed his road and, from the darkness of the place, fell a distance of sixteen feet into the yard of the Old Folkestone Arms Inn, by which he sustained a dislocation of the knee and other injuries. Great complaint is made at the partial manner in which the town is lighted with gas.

Canterbury Weekly 4-10-1845 

On Tuesday se`ennight, about nine o`clock, as Mr. Holley, employed erecting coke ovens for the Railway Company, was passing from the Rail (should this be Bail?) into the town he missed the road and, from the darkness of the place, fell a distance of sixteen feet into the yard of the Old Folkestone Arms Inn, by which he sustained a dislocation of the knee and other injuries. 

Holbein`s Visitors` List 2-3-1887

Local News

I am indebted for the following curious and interesting reminiscence of ancient Folkestone to an old inhabitant of the town, and I doubt not that many an old lady and gentleman can recall to mind the time at which the incident happened. At the corner of George Lane, on the site where Messrs. Gosling and Co.`s establishment now stands, the Folkestone Arms hung out it`s sign in the days of long ago, before the town had become a holiday resort, and when the mammoth lodging house was a thing undreamed of by the Folkestonians of those primitive days. Folkestone is dull nowadays in the winter – wherefore we may conclude that it was even duller then. A young military officer, passing through the town, lunched at the Folkestone Arms, and after his repast embodied his views of the deadly-lively town in the following lines, which he pencilled on the wall of the dining room:

Since the Almighty Creator of Heaven

For our sins a punishment has given

Why need He send His creatures down to Hell?

Send them to Folkestone – that`ll do as well

Shortly after he had delivered himself of this effusion, one of the tradesmen of that day (a shoemaker), who came to the coffee room every afternoon to smoke a digestive pipe, came in and read the lines. He took up cudgels on behalf of his native place, and pencilled beneath the officer`s lines:

You red-coat poet

Why take you so much pains

To show at once

The virtue of your brains?

If Folkestone is a Hell

A Devil it must need;

You want preferment

Try – perhaps you may succeed

The officer was delighted with this repartee, sought out it`s author, and the rhymesters spent a very pleasant evening together over a bottle of port.

Folkestone Herald 28-1-1899

A Glimpse of Old Folkestone (Taken from The Watering Places of Great Britain)

The Folkestone Arms Commercial Hotel and Excise Office

This is the principal hotel in Folkestone, and one, as regards comfort and convenience, of which any town might be proud. The beds are excellent; of the cookery the choicest epicure could not complain; the wines and spirits challenge competition with any; the management reflecting the greatest credit; the posting equal to any on the road; and, though last, not least of its recommendary qualities, the charges reasonable. It is situated in Bayle Street, and is within five minutes` walk of the sea-side.

Folkestone Herald 12-8-1916

Felix

Who can throw some light on the following note I have received from Lieut. Col. Fynmore, J.P.?

“Sandgate Castle, 31^st July, 1916. Dear Felix, You asked some years ago if there had ever been a barn on The Bayle. I notice in the 1782 plan John Hobday held plots 32, 33, and 34. In 1792, John Hobday is described as a farmer. In Stock`s Handbook, p. 89, reference is made to a barn and buildings, which in 1769 passed to Henry Hobday. In connection with this occupation by the Hobdays in 1769, Stock brings in the two shields of arms of Herdson and Dixwell that I drew attention to some years ago. Can it be that originally this was the Folkestone Arms? In 1776 we have the White Hart at the top of High Street, and this, in the 1782 plan, had become the Folkestone Arms, probably reviving a sign which had formerly existed, and where there was a more probable site than that of Hobday`s, on The Bayle, and that the arms of the landlords (Herdson and Dixwell) should be placed on either side of the doorway, hence the Folkestone Arms. The proprietor might well in those days have been a farmer as well, and, judging by the plan, there was ample room for yard and stabling”.

I am told the site of the Folkestone arms now forms a part of Gosling`s Stores. The old porching – and a fine specimen, too – still stands there. Here, too, the coaches started for London, and there are now the old waiting rooms, etc., still in existence. The stabling was in close proximity, too. I dare say some of the oldest inhabitants cane recall the scene when the coach started on its daily journey. I believe Mr. Tilden Tunbridge or Mr. Jenkings could throw some light on this.

Note: Actually a reference to the Green Dragon, The Bayle.

Folkestone Herald 16-3-1929

Felix

“I thank you very much for your last week`s article, and particularly that part referring to the Assembly (Corporation) meeting at the old Kings Arms Hotel and the Marquis of Granby”. Thus Mr. F. Hedges, of the Bouverie Arms, Cheriton Road, spoke to me on the bright and beautiful morning of Monday last. It is nice to have a “Thank you” now and then, because it is my main desire to please in these small weekly efforts of mine. I do not soar towards the impossible, viz., to please everybody. I remarked this much, many years ago, to a gentleman, who was then, as he is now, associated with the Folkestone Herald. His reply was brief and to the point. It was this “You will be a darned big fool if you try. Do the right as far as you can and let the rest alone”. I have tried to follow this advice. Now, to return to Mr. Hedges and his thanks. His establishment is a place where men congregate largely, and naturally many subjects crop up for discussion. There are arguments, friendly and sometimes highly controversial. It is tha latter that this particular gentleman mostly dreads.

 

It appears one of the company at the Bouverie Arms on Saturday night, after reading my paragraph, asked of another “Where was the Marquis of Granby situate?” That was enough. The argument as to its whereabouts went on fully for a couple of hours, and it was only when the Speaker called “Time” that the controversy ceased. Now, to be fair, I must plead guilty to providing, what after all was a friendly argument, for discussion. In my last paragraph on this subject I declared the Marquis of Granby was situate in Seagate Street. This was wrong. It should have been High Street. I can`t give the exact site, but there are those living amongst us who can. It is probably difficult for the present generation to realise that this present beautiful town of Folkestone was confined to three, four, or five thoroughfares (not paved in some cases) when the late Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837. Such however was the case.

Perhaps the Cheiton Road unofficial debating Society would like to discuss the whereabouts of the Folkestone Arms. The site of it appears, as far as I can make out, to have been where now stands the commanding corner premises at the bottom of High Street at the junction formed by Harbour and South Streets. The Folkestone Arms, it would seem, was an important establishment in those days. I will prove it. Here is an extract from an old Kentish newspaper and it will be read, I feel sure, with interest by all true Folkestonians. “September 11^th, 1812. Tuesday last being the Mayor`s choice for the town of Folkestone, Thomas Baker Esq. was elected to the chair, who after taking the necessary oath adjourned to the Folkestone Arms Inn, accompanied by the jurats and the principal residents of the community, where a sumptuous and well-served dinner was prepared for them. After the cloth was drawn (removed), the following toasts, etc., were pronounced from the chair; “The King and God Bless Him”; “The Prince Regent” (and under his benign auspices may the Imperial Eagle be experimentally taught to fly the wing at the roaring of the British Lion); “The Queen and Royal Family”; “Alexander (and may the Gallic Cock (France) be finally brought to feel the ascending influence of the Northern constellation)”. Thus passed the fleeting hours, interspersed with convivial song and merry joke, until “Nox” was contemplating to withdraw her sombre curtain from the dusky landscape, which suggested to the company the idea of “iit domum”, and on which they unanimously rose and congratulated the Mayor (Thomas Baker) on his tenth election to the honour of the white wand”. The foregoing, although an involved and rather complicated composition, gives an insight into the life of Folkestone 117 years ago, and incidentally reminds us that our forefathers well enjoyed themselves in their own way, not only at the table, but with convivial song and merry joke.

Note: Felix again gets it wrong. The Folkestone Arms referred to was located at the top of High Street, and closed in 1846. The Folkestone Arms Tavern, at the bottom of High Street, opened in 1847.

Folkestone Herald 1-11-1930

Felix

Councillor – or rather Jurat – Thomas Baker was elected Mayor of Folkestone on ten or twelve different occasions. He it was who laid the foundation stone of Folkestone Harbour when it was owned by a local company. In the brief record I have before me I find that 115 years ago a banquet in honour of the election of Mayor Baker was held at the Folkestone Arms, situate at the top of High Street. The landlady, it appears, surpassed herself in the cooking of the joints (boiled or roast), whilst the vegetables and all the etceteras were, without doubt, prepared to a turn. My report states that after the cloth had been removed a few toasts were proposed and responded to. And then the company spent the rest of the evening, or rather night, in mirth and harmony. The company “kept it up” right enough, for I read that it was not until the brilliancy of the dawn wiped out the sombreness of Nox (night) that the company separated.

Folkestone Herald 3-11-1934

Felix

I am certain the following extract, taken from an old county newspaper, will be read just now with interest by all Folkestonians:- “ September 11^th, 1812: Thursday last being the Mayor`s choice for the town of Folkestone, Thomas Baker Esq. was elected to the civic chair, and who, after taking the necessary oath, adjourned to the Folkestone Arms Inn, accompanied by the jurats and the primores oppidi (principal residents of the town), where a sumptuous and well-served dinner was prepared for them. After the cloth was drawn (removed), the following toasts, etc., were pronounced from the chair; “The King and God Bless Him”; “The Prince Regent” (and under his benign auspices may the Imperial Eagle be experimentally taught to fly the wing at the roaring of the British Lion); “The Queen and Royal Family”; “Alexander (and may the Gallic Cock (France) be finally brought to feel the ascending influence of the Northern constellation)”. Thus passed the fleeting hours, interspersed with convivial song and merry joke, until “Nox” was contemplating to withdraw her sombre curtain from the dusky landscape, which suggested to the company the idea of “iit domum”, and on which they unanimously rose and congratulated the Mayor (Thomas Baker) on his tenth election to the honour of the white hand of office”.

The aforesaid Thomas Baker of over 100 years ago was considered something of a “big noise” in his day. He it was who, amongst other things, laid the foundation stone of the original Folkestone Harbour before it was taken over by the then South Eastern Railway Company.