Exploring Kent's Past

It should not be assumed that this site is publicly accessible and it may be on private property. Do not trespass.

Monument details

Summary

The site of the former paper mill at River.

Monument Types

• (Former Type) PAPER MILL (Closed, Post Medieval to Modern - 1689 AD to 1918 AD (between))

Full description

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The site of the former paper mill at River, once a very distinct community on the outskirts of Dover. Originally built as a corn mill it was converted to the production of paper around 1689. The mill was closed in 1918 and its chimney remained standing until 1928. All that remain archaeologically are the substantial footings of the original buildings. These are accessible to the public for exploration at the extremity of Kearnsey Abbey Park. (1)

It is thought that the adjacent River Cottage, which straddles the millstream, may be associated with the original mill but this cannot be confirmed. (2) It is clear however that the extension to River Cottage which straddles the stream does not appear on the survey plan of the mill prepared in 1825 (3) nor on the OS map. It does however appear on the Second OS map after 1875 and could possibly be a later addition.

<1> Anita Luckett., Discover the Dour., http://discoverthedour.org/papermaking-in-dover.html (Website). SKE31469.

<2> Dover District Council, 2013, Dover District Heritage Strategy (Bibliographic reference). SKE31372.

<3> Outside the Mill, 2015, Buckland Mill, Dover, Kent. Papermaking on the River Dour., http://www.bucklandmill.webspace.virginmedia.com/six_mills/river.htm (Website). SKE31464.

Sources and further reading