Kent House Linked to American Revolution Unearthed

Archaeologists have uncovered the remnants of the Rose Hill estate in Kent, a property once linked to the American War of Independence. The estate, later known as The Grove, was demolished in the 1970s but its foundations and traces remain. The Historical Research Group of Sittingbourne, with assistance from 360 pupils, located the estate's remains in 2015. The house was notably inhabited by Frances Montresor, whose husband, John Montresor, served as a military engineer for the British Army in America. He is historically significant for his connection to Nathan Hale, the American spy. Hale was captured and executed by the British, but Montresor allowed him to write his final letters. These letters were later delivered to George Washington's camp, solidifying Hale's status as a national hero. The Montresors commissioned portraits from the renowned artist Copley due to this connection. After the war, Montresor returned to England, but financial disputes with the government led to the seizure of his property and his imprisonment. Consequently, Frances and the family moved to Rose Hill. It is believed the house may have been clad in yellow mathematical tiles, a decorative ceramic used to mimic brickwork, a feature also seen at their previous home, Belmont House.