ner's house was built on the site of the other. The present fort is an excellent barrier against the sea in violent gales of wind ; which would otherwise have broke into, and considerably damaged the suburbs, particularly in January, 1792, when there happened an extraordinary high tide, with a most furious gale of wind at south, which did a deal of mischief both here and at other parts of the coast. The oldest inhabitants never remembered the sea flowing so high as on that day. Some capstans and rope-shops, which had stood for years Unmolested by the tides, were torn up, and washed along the shore. A large boat, of 15 or 20 tons burthen, that stood near the Bourne's mouth, was washed off its wood, and thrown up against the houses. The vessels upon the Stade were all in great danger. The banks along the road to the west ward of the town, were all broke in upon, and in many parts carried away. The suburbs were a continued stream, the water coming through the houses, carrying with it tables, chairs, bureaus, &c. which, with men, women, and children wading about from -
Page:The Hastings Guide.pdf/80
From Historical Hastings
This page has been proofread