Sussex Smugglers

Sussex Smugglers

Discover local smuggling history, the people involved and techniques they used, as well as the Customs Men who sought to catch them.

During the 18th and early 19th centuries, smuggling became a major part of life along the Sussex coast. Valuable goods were brought ashore in secret, organised gangs moved contraband inland, and Customs officers fought an ongoing battle to stop the illegal trade.

Using local evidence, historical sources, investigation and drama, uncover the stories of the people involved on both sides of the law. Explore why smuggling flourished, follow routes across the Sussex landscape and use real historical accounts to investigate a fascinating part of our local past.

Sussex Smugglers Available Sessions

SPSM1

Who, What, When & Why

Use primary and secondary sources to investigate why smuggling increased during the 18th and early 19th centuries.

SMEX1

Smuggle & Search

Play an original Time Seekers game exploring the geography of Sussex smuggling and the cat-and-mouse struggle between smugglers and Customs Men.

SMEX2

Facial Reconstruction: Thomas Kingsmill

Use evidence from court records to create a facial reconstruction of a real Sussex smuggler.

SMEX3

Smuggler Stories

Investigate primary accounts of local smuggling activities before bringing the stories and people involved to life through drama.

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