Chequers

A document dated 1787, listed on eBay, tells us that the pub was formerly known as the "Chequers."

Above shows the title page, as the rest is impossible to read. The document (dated 13th November 1787) appears to be a release (from a mortgage?) in the names of John Secker, Gentleman, of Mersham and victualler, Thomas Secker, of Brookland and William Bennett, of Ashford.