fireworks.co.uk In 1732 the former Dartford paper mills on Powdermill Lane were converted into gunpowder mills by Pyke and Edsall. During the 18th Century Dartford played a significant role in gun powder production. The ingredients were imported by ship to the Thames estuary. Local woodlands provided the charcoal required and the river Darent was a source of water needed in the manufacturing process but also to drive the machinery. Gunpowder manufacture was extremely dangerous and there were explosions at the site on a regular basis resulting in loss of life on occasion. Sources: darentvalley.org.uk- Dartford Powder Mills and archeology Project Dartford Town Archive- Gunpowder