'A View of the Grand Encampment on Cox Heath', 1778 (c)

Sepia engraving by J Cardwell, after W Hamilton; published by J Boydell, Cheapside, Torre Market Lane, St James's and F Vaivares, Great Newport Street, 24 November 1778.

Coxheath, near Maidstone in Kent, was the site of a large military camp established in 1778, during the American War of Independence (1775-1783). With the American revolutionaries allied to the French, the threat of invasion from France galvanised Britain to bolster its defences. Coxheath became a centre for the training of militia forces. With its proximity to London, the annual summer camp attracted sightseers from across society, along with commercial opportunists and profiteers. The camp became well known for scandal and disorderly conduct. As a result, it became the focus of satirical, theatrical and literary productions which only increased its notoriety further.