Our History

The Brickfields Begin

George Smeed and the making of Sittingbourne

George Smeed, often known as “George Bargebrick”, was one of the most influential industrialists in Kent. Beginning with a small holding, he built an extensive brickmaking enterprise that grew to include brickfields, cement works, gas works and barge-building yards.

In 1887, Smeed Dean & Co was reported to have produced an astonishing 60 million bricks in a single year. The company’s London stock bricks were transported by barge from Murston and Conyer to London, helping to build parts of South London, Dulwich, Norwood, Westminster Cathedral and Buckingham Palace.

A major employer in the area, Smeed also built homes for workers and contributed to the development of local services. His obituary famously stated that he had “almost made Sittingbourne what it is today” – a legacy that still lives on in the town, where Sittingbourne FC remain known as The Brickies.

A New Partnership

Smeed Dean & Co is formed

In 1856, George Smeed’s eldest daughter, Mary Ann, married George Hambrook Dean. Their partnership would prove pivotal to the future of both the business and the land.

In 1876, Smeed Dean & Co Ltd was formally established, bringing together the Smeed industrial enterprise with the Dean family’s growing involvement in land management and agriculture.

The renowned Smeed Dean bricks, celebrated for their strength and quality, continue to be manufactured today.

Orchard Life

Fruit picking since 1920

This archive footage captures life in the orchards during the early decades of the estate’s fruit-growing history. From ladders amongst the cherry trees to seasonal workers living in traditional caravans, it offers a rare glimpse into the people, harvests and traditions that helped shape the estate.

While much has changed over the years, the connection between people, harvest and the land remains at the heart of the business today.

Building the Farming Enterprise

Sir Leslie Doubleday

Following the death of George Hambrook Dean, Sir Leslie Doubleday took responsibility for the farming operations and continued to expand the business.

During this period, the estate’s cherry-growing enterprise flourished, becoming one of the most significant parts of the business. Sir Leslie also dedicated much of his life to public service and agriculture within Kent.

During the Second World War, he played an important role in supporting Britain’s food production efforts. Later, he gifted land at Detling Airfield to the Kent Agricultural Society, providing a permanent home for the Kent County Show that continues to this day.

His contribution extended beyond farming. As a county councillor, he helped shape major infrastructure projects across Kent, including the development of the Dartford Tunnel and improvements to the A2.

Continuing the Legacy

Edmund ‘Garth’ Leslie Doubleday

Garth Doubleday continued the family’s tradition of service and stewardship. After serving in the Royal Artillery during the Second World War, he remained actively involved in both the business and public life.

He served as High Sheriff of Kent and as a Justice of the Peace, while maintaining a close connection to the estate throughout his life.

Married to Alison for more than sixty years, Garth remained involved in the business until his passing in 2012, helping guide the estate through another important chapter of its history

Returning to our roots

The evolution of the business

The farming business was incorporated as Leslie Doubleday Ltd in 1947. Over the following decades the estate diversified and adapted, responding to changing agricultural practices and opportunities.

In 1994, the company returned to its historic roots and adopted the name G.H. Dean & Co. Ltd, reconnecting the business with the family and land that had shaped its history.

Looking to the future

A History That Continues

Today, G.H. Dean & Co. Ltd manages a diverse estate encompassing residential and commercial property, orchards, arable farming and sheep farming.

While the industries and landscapes have evolved over time, the estate’s connection to the land remains unchanged. The focus continues to be on responsible stewardship, supporting local communities and ensuring the estate remains sustainable for future generations.