Some Fascinating fats you may not know about buildings to be found in Thanet. Minster Abbey, founded in 670, is one of England oldest inhabited buildings Parts of the Old Tithe Barn at Minster Museum date from the 8th century The Church of St Mary the Virgin, traditionally the 'Mother church" of Thanet, is the earliest parish church on the island. Its site, or there abouts, has been used since before the Norman conquest. Salmestone Grange, a monastic grange with a 14th century Chapel, dates back to 1027. In medieval times, Margate Caves were used as a prison with dungeons. In times of oppression, they were used as a Church and finally as a hideout for Smugglers. St Nicholas at Wade has a 12th century Church. The first Bungalow in England was built in Westgate in 1869. Bleak House, high on the cliffs above Broadstairs, was a favourite Holiday home of Charles Dickens, where he was thought to write David Copperfield. When he lived there it was known as Fort House. Draper's Windmill was built by Millwright Thomas Holman c.1845. There has been a lifeboat Station in Margate since 1864. The Royal Sea Bathing Hospital was founded 2nd July 1791 by Doctor John Coakley Lettsom. The first patients were admitted in May 1796. Terrified folk seeking refuge from the Vikings within the monastery cloister at Minster are recorded as being burnt to death. Thanet's inhabitants were among the first in Britain to suffer from the Black Death because of the Isle's links with the continent. -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.4/332 - Release Date: 5/4/06