About

This is the web site of the Battle of Bossenden Wood memorial group which aims to commemorate the casualties of the Battle and to raise awareness of its historical and political significance – often described as the last to occur on English soil.

The Battle took place when an uprising of agricultural workers armed only with cudgels and farm implements was put down by the army. It was one of a series of rebellions by agricultural workers whose livelihoods were being threatened by the introduction of machinery and by the effects of the Poor Law of 1834. One soldier (Lt Bennett) died in the Battle and was buried with full military honours in Canterbury Cathedral.

Eight farm workers were killed and buried in unmarked graves in the churchyard of St Michael’s, Hernhill. We have been campaigning for a memorial to them in the Church and to publicise the Battle as part of the long struggle for a fairer and less exploitative society.

The uprising remains controversial. It has been described as a `riot’ and its leader, John Tom (who assumed the name of Sir William Courtenay) – a charismatic figure and religious zealot – is accused of being `mad’, but this is much disputed. Perhaps because of this, the Battle has not been given the attention it deserves.

This web site gathers together information and resources about the Battle and its context. It will provide a forum for discussion and for news of events connected with the Battle. Please get involved in any way you can.