Commemorative plaque 1473

This blue commemorative plaque records: English Cast Iron 3 Pounder Naval Cannon This cannon, belonging to Mr Richard Piper of Conghurst, has been presented to the Trustees of Dunk's Almshouses. The cannon was set in the road, at Four Throws, by Mr Piper's grandfather at the end of the 19th century to protect his private post box from passing traffic. This cannon was probably made about 1750 for an armed merchantman (or for export) based on the British Government pattern of gun. Although cannons were made in Hawkhurst the local forges were closed before this gun was made. Mr Charles Brinsley made the gun carriage from oak sourced from Delmonden and he also supervised the refurbishment of the cannon. The project was undertaken by Mr Jeremy Cross in association with the Hawkhurst Village Society and has been sponsored by local donations and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Recorded plaque organisation: Hawkhurst Heritage.

The cannon commemorates local craftsmanship and historical preservation efforts, having been refurbished and displayed by the Hawkhurst Village Society in collaboration with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Originally a naval weapon from around 1750, it was repurposed as a protective barrier for a private post box at Four Throws in the late 19th century.