Britain's What's On Event Guide
Thomas Paine's Cottage
Heritage Open Day: Thomas Paine lived, worked and preached in Sandwich in 1759 & 1760. He is commonly known as the 'Father of the American Revolution'. Thomas Paine earned his living as a stay-maker, following in his father's footsteps. He came to Sandwich in 1759 at the age of 1759 at the age of 22, where he continued his profession, also preaching to a Methodist congregation in the market place. After the death of his wife, Paine moved away from Kent. In 1774 to escape his creditors he emigrated to the American colonies, where he became a soldier & political adviser. In the 1790s, he became involved in the French Revolution, writing the Rights of Man in 1791 and helping to draft the 1793 French Constitution. He was imprisoned during the Reign of Terror & only escaped the guillotine because of an accidental act by a guard. He returned to America in 1802, dying there in 1809. Only 6 mourners attended his funeral.
Saturday 13 September and Sunday 14 September
Tom Paines Cottage, 20 New Street, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9AB
Sat 13 Sep:1100-1500; Sun 14 Sep:1100-1500; Free Entry.
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