Smuggling in Kent and Sussex, 1700-1840

Great Britain: Countryside Books. Good. 1988. Reprint. Soft Cover. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall 0905392485 Paperback Paperback. Ticks in pen in margin to some pages. Slight pen mark to edge. The leaders in the field were the smugglers of Kent and Sussex, closest to both the Continental suppliers and the profitable London markets. Large bands such as the Mayfield, Groombridge and Hawkhurst Gangs controlled the business, often resorting to blackmail, exortion and murder. In the long struggle between the free traders and the various preventive services there was villainy and violence, as well as skill and courage on both sides. Who would suspect today the battles which raged on the seafront at Bexhill, along the main streets of Worthing or in sedate London suburbs? The author's book describes the industry in detail along each section of the coast, explaining the methods used and introducing the characters involved. For those wishing to follow the various smuggling tracks for themselves there are suggestions for places to visit after each chapter. Her book is a vivid portrait of a trade which even today is remembered with awe tinged with more than a little affection. Illustrated. 176 pp. (We carry a wide selection of titles in The Arts, Theology, History, Politics, Social and Physical Sciences. academic and scholarly books and Modern First Editions etc.) .