"To be sold immediately, the Swan Inn, with Brewery, Stabling, two Gardens, etc., enquire of Widow Halsted in Hastings."
Whether sold or not is doubtful, but it fell into the hands of Mr. John Collier, either as purchaser or mortgagee, and shortly after was announced to be let. According to the " Collier letters" the property passed by Will to Mrs. Collier. Some years after it was owned and occupied by Mr. Thomas Breeds, and afterwards Mr. William Scrivens, Mr. Dodson, Mr. Stockwell, and Mr. Robinson were severally landlords. Early in the 19th Century Mr. C. F. Mott, followed by Messrs. Abraham Wood and Francis Emary. After their tenancy the property was bought outright for £5,000 by Mr. W. M. Eldridge, then proprietor of the Saxon Hotel, St. Leonards, and ultimately it was carried on by Mr. Wm. Carswell and his
(As it appeared just prior to its demolition with the posters announcing the Sale of its contents, Horses, Carriages, etc.)
widow after him, who will be remembered by many now living. The Hotel under their management became celebrated. Far away into the 18th Century the Swan was famous for its Assemblies, Balls, Dinners, Concerts, and other functions. One or other of the Political Parties made it their rendezvous at election times, the Mayor's Dinners were held there, the Assembly Room was used for Auction Sales of Property, by Commercial Traders, and farmers and merchants attending the weekly market regularly transacted much of their business at the Swan, and the "Market Ordinary " was a recognised institution. " All things change."
