From its origins as a clearing in the Wealden forest, the Saxon settlement of 'Tenet-warre-den' rose to a position of prominence with the fourteenth-century burgeoning of the English wool trade. During the reign of Henry VI, its fortunes improved further when the town was incorporated into the Confederation of Cinque Ports. When significant changes to the landscape ended its maritime associations, Tenterden's prosperity was maintained by a robust agricultural industry. Its broad, tree-lined High Street once resounded with the hubbub of livestock fairs, and its warren of side roads and hidden courtyards were filled with the activities of everyday life. Situated at the heart of the Kent Weald, Tenterden serves as a hub for the surrounding small villages and hamlets, a vibrant and thriving market town which, while undergoing continuing development and modernisation, has retained the charm of its rural character.

Naomi Dickins lives in the heart of the Kent Weald with her husband, two children and assorted animals. After reading History at Bristol University and gaining an Advanced Diploma in Local History Studies from Oxford University, she has worked as a tutor and lecturer, researcher and archivist. As well as writing and lecturing, Naomi runs classes and workshops for local history groups.