America Ground: Discover the Tiny Slice of 'America' in England's Historic Hastings

Unearthing a Revolutionary Spirit in Coastal England

Imagine strolling through a neighbourhood where the spirit of the American Declaration of Independence once resonated, and the Stars and Stripes fluttered. Yet, the language is distinctly British, tea is a staple, and you're thousands of kilometres from the United States. Welcome to America Ground: a captivating 8.5-acre district in Hastings, on England's south-east coast, a place that boldly took inspiration from the revolutionary fervour of the United States.

As the US approaches its 250th anniversary, few may realize that a peculiar pocket of the UK was so deeply moved by the former colony's quest for freedom that it adopted its very name. More than two centuries since its inception, this libertarian outpost, founded by audacious builders and craftspeople, continues to channel that early entrepreneurial zest through its vibrant independent businesses. This is indeedthe tiny slice of 'America' in Englandthat defies expectations.

The Genesis of an Independent Enclave

The early 1800s witnessed Hastings evolve from a quaint fishing village into a burgeoning seaside destination. During this period, local construction workers began an audacious venture: squatting on a shingle beach, separated from the main town by a meandering stream. This area, initially deemed unsuitable for development, soon transformed as these resourceful settlers fashioned rudimentary homes and workshops.

What began as temporary shelters, ingeniously adapted from salvaged fishing boats and even captured smuggling vessels, gradually gave way to more permanent structures. Crucially, the ambiguous ownership of this land meant its residents conveniently bypassed taxation. By the 1820s, Hastings was booming, attracting a diverse array of artisans – blacksmiths, launderers, pig farmers, and bakers – who joined the original community of builders, traders, and rope-makers. This influx fostered a thriving, self-sufficient society. Eventually, this former no-man's land, originally known as Priory Ground, became home to approximately 1,000 people, constituting about 12% of Hastings' total population. As more individuals sought economic refuge in this tax-free haven, the district acquired a fitting and topical moniker: "America."

Historian Steve Peak, in his workThe America Ground, Hastings, encapsulates this sentiment: "A clear spirit of 'Americanism' permeated some of the squatters. They felt liberated from the confines of Hastings, much as the Americans had felt freed from English rule after the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812."

From Rebellion to Reclamation: The Fall of America Ground

The close-knit, informal living arrangements on America Ground inevitably led to neighbourly disputes, eventually drawing the attention of the British government. An 1827 inquiry into the land found no legitimate claims to ownership, setting in motion the gradual eviction of the squatters. In a twist of fate, this "America" – much like its transatlantic namesake, separated by water from central authority – ultimately succumbed to British government jurisdiction. Unlike the United States, its independence was short-lived.

By 1835, the site was cleared, paving the way for the development of residential and shopping streets. The stream, once a natural boundary, was diverted underground, physically and legally integrating America Ground into Hastings. Despite this dramatic transformation, its distinctive name steadfastly endured.

America Ground Today: Where History Meets Bohemian Charm

Today, the geographical footprint of America Ground largely mirrors the area once occupied by its original settlers. Three key thoroughfares – Robertson Street, Trinity Street, and Claremont – form the vibrant core of this former outpost. Here, Victorian terraces now house an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, artist studios, and charming flats above. Echoes of the early, boat-adapted dwellings can still be glimpsed in archived paintings and sketches at the nearby Hastings Museum & Art Gallery.

Like many British seaside towns, Hastings experienced a decline in the 1970s and '80s. However, the last 15 years have seen a remarkable resurgence, largely fueled by an influx of artists and entrepreneurs drawn to America Ground, bringing its pioneering past full circle. Its unique vibe is now a major draw, with many noting its bohemian atmosphere. Seth Peachey, a long-standing member of the co-operative behind Trinity Wholefoods, observes, "By the time you reach America Ground, you encounter that distinct bohemian feel. It's truly wonderful that it has managed to retain its unique identity." This independent and creative ethos was precisely what attracted Susan McNally and Tim Scullion to establish their record and comic shop, Wow and Flutter, in the area, highlighting the collaborative spirit among local businesses.

While an urban myth suggests America Ground's founders declared it the 24th US state, historical evidence is scarce. What is known, however, is the profound identification with its adopted name. When the 1832 Reform Act extended voting rights beyond the landed gentry in Britain, Hastings' "Americans" proudly affirmed their identity by parading the Stars and Stripes through town to a celebratory banquet. Their initial plan to present the flag to the mayor was deemed unpatriotic until it was respectfully modified to include the Union Jack.

Celebrating Independence, Old and New

Locals today delight in sharing the fascinating origins of the district's unusual name with visitors, occasionally celebrating their transatlantic namesakes. Over the past 15 years, sporadic Fourth of July celebrations have graced America Ground, featuring everything from Lindy Hop demonstrations to readings of the Declaration of Independence. More recently, "Independents' Day" street parties have creatively reframed this tradition, shifting the spotlight to the area's thriving local businesses.

America Ground's current revival is a testament to its enduring independent spirit. Entrepreneurs, much like Lorna Lloyd who owns The Printworks – a Victorian building now home to a music venue, shop, and B&B – took an early gamble on the area's potential, inspired by urban transformations witnessed elsewhere. This forward-thinking approach is mirrored in new attractions like a sea-view rooftop bar at the Observer Building, which funds a youth club and provides affordable creative workspaces. Elsa Simmons, project coordinator at Hastings Commons, aptly describes America Ground as "independent-minded, a product of that early 'American' mindset, a bit anti-authority."

The original shingle settlement's backbone is now Gotham Alley, a street art-covered strip flanked by studios, transformed into a vibrant community hangout. Further towards the seafront, the massive underground skatepark, Source Park, built within a derelict swimming pool, offers another testament to the area's innovative spirit.

While the Stars and Stripes may no longer fly permanently over America Ground, its creative, resilient, and distinctively independent spirit undoubtedly endures, making it a truly unique corner of England.