ALT Shown here is a postcard depicting an exterior view of Jezreel's Tower at Chatham Hill, Gillingham. Postmark dated 9th August 1923 [ref. GIL 85] Jezreel's Tower was an imposing religious structure intended to be the centrepiece of a small but fervent sect called the New and Latter House of Israel, led by James Jezreel (c.1851-1885). Initially a soldier in the British Army, Jezreel was influenced by the prophetic teachings of Joanna Southcott of Taleford, Devon (1750-1814), and established a Medway-based enclave of "Jezreelites" to continue her movement. Despite the sect's ambition, the tower was never completed owing to financial strain and the death of Jezreel in 1885, which left the group without strong leadership. Whilst the structure fell into disrepair, its decaying shell became a notable curiosity of the local landscape. After standing derelict for decades, the tower was demolished in 1961 — bringing an end to one of Kent’s most unusual architectural landmarks.

ALT Poster for Volunteering Day on 10 Dec: 'Let's do the time walk again!' For details email lily. turvey@canterbury.ac.uk

ALT Sandwich Guild Hall Museum