Bromleag The journal of the Borough Local History Society

March 2003

Caption for the photograph

Maps — showing the way in history

Bromleag to Bromley - and all the spellings - turn of the century in between memories

Bromley Borough Local History Society

Registered Charity No 273963 Contents About the Society

March 2003 Bromley Borough Local History Society was formed in 1974 so that anyone with an interest in any part of the borough could meet to exchange information Bromleag and learn more about Bromley’s history. What’s in a name? P3 History is continually being made and at the same time destroyed, buildings are altered or demolished, memories fade and people pass away, records get Feature: Maps P4 destroyed or thrown in the bin. We aim, in co-operation with the local history library, museums and other relevant organisations, to make sure at least some of this history is preserved for future generations. News P5 We hold regular meetings and produce a journal and occasional publications where members can publish their research. Society Meetings: Chairman and Membership Secretary Thomas Clark Quire P6 Dr Anthony Allnut Local studies Woodside, Old Perry Street, , BR7 6PP 020 8467 3820 evening P6-7 [email protected] ’s Famous P8 Secretary Mrs Patricia Knowlden 62 Harvest Bank Road, West Wickham, BR4 9DJ News 020 8462 5002 Victoria County History Wickham Court P9 Bromleag This newsletter is published four times a year. The editor welcomes articles of Feature: Memories of between 100 and 1,000 words, along with illustrations and photographs. West Wickham P10-11 These can be in paper copy, disk or e-mailed. Please enclose a stamped addressed envelope if you wish material to be returned. Items remain the copyright of the authors and do not necessarily News reflect Society views. Each contributor is responsible for the content of their Muirhead’s P12 article. Articles are not always used immediately as we try to maintain a balance Feature: between research, reminiscences and articles about different subjects and Church P13 parts of the borough. Editor Christine Hellicar News P14 150 Worlds End Lane, , BR6 6AS 01689 857214 Reasearch queries P15 Email chrisandpathellicar @talk21.com

New Chelsfield

History P16 Subscription Rates Yearly subscription from 1 January All copy for the June Individual £8.50; couple £10. Senior citizens pay a re- edition of Bromleag must duced rate of £6 per person or £8 for a couple. reach the editor by Members joining after 30 June pay half rates. Monday 12 May.

Bromleag March 2003 P2 The Bromleag question - an ‘e’ or not an ‘e’

elcome to Bromleag 2003 – a new year, a new to Brumlegh, other legal documents refer to Brumlegh editor and an almost new name. But why the (1254), Bromleghe (1255), Bromleigh (1346) Bromle W name change? The name Bromleage, which has (1320) and Bromlegh (1453). served the journal well for some years, was introduced to So, after a small consultation, the journal has reflect the more archaic spellings of the borough’s name modernised, or gone back to basics, depending on your and as a play on the words Bromley and age. viewpoint and been renamed, Bromleag, being the Our secretary, former chairman and stalwart of the earliest spelling of the name. society Patricia Knowlden says that many people have **** queried the name and wondered how it should be On the subject of names my own is often queried by pronounced. I was one of them. Patricia tells me: “On those whose main interest is Bromley itself. I am a the face of it Bromley –age would seem to be very Hellicar by marriage so I am not descended from that suitable for a local history newsletter. However, Victorian worthy the Rev Arthur Gresley Hellicar, vicar of colleagues who know about the Anglo-Saxon language Bromley. Nor can I really lay any claim through marriage. insist it is said with a gutteral ending Bromle-agh! Not My husband’s and Arthur Gresley’s families both came being dark age Anglo-Saxons we find this quite from Somerset and no doubt shared an ancestor around impossible.” the 16th century but that is as near as I get to a ‘famous’ George Clinch in his Antiquarian Jottings of Bromley Bromley connection. and District, published over a century ago and quoting **** from Edward Hasted, gives the name’s origin as: “Anciently Bromleag, Bromleah, in Latin Bromlega, from Last, but by no means least, I would like to thank Elaine a field or pasture where broom grows.” Baker, who was editor for the past year, and Denise and Paul Rason, editors for the previous seven years, for The earliest reference to our borough says Horsburgh, handling onto me such a well respected and enjoyable in his 1929 history of Bromley, dates from the time of journal. Ethelbert, King of Wessex and Kent, in a charter of 862 where it is referred to as Bromleag. In 955 another Denise and Paul put a lot of work into developing the charter uses the modern spelling of Bromley and in journal and making is such an interesting read. I hope 1086, in the Domesday Book, it appears in the Latin as all those who have written for Bromleage will continue to Bronlei. do so for Bromleag and that new contributors will come forward to share with readers their special interests and But consistency of spelling was never a strong point for insights into the history of the borough of Bromley our ancestors and documents down the ages use a variety of spellings. Bromleage was used in the ‘forged’

charter of King Edgar, of about 967, that granted Christine Hellicar Bromley to the Bishops of Rochester. We find Welfgert de Bromlega (1189), King John grants the market of 1205

AGM – change of speaker Unfortunately our speaker for the AGM on Tuesday 1 April cannot attend . Our fellow member Dr Ron Cox has agreed to step in at short notice to give a talk: The happiest days ....? - Life as seen through school log books. For full details of our monthly meetings see P7 Visit to Bromley Sheppards Colleges A visit has been arranged for Saturday 10 May We will meet at 2.00pm inside the main Wren Gate opposite the Magistrates court. One of the Collegians will act as a guide which will last about one hour . This is a wonderful opportunity for the society to look around this historic secret part of Bromley, first established in 1693. We hope you will be able to make a small donation to the college if you come on the walk. Numbers are limited so please phone Elaine Baker on 01689 854408 to book a place.

P3 Bromleag March 2003 P3 Feature

House hunting … on the map“

Two little fragments of the original one-inch by Patricia Knowlden ordnance map will be more eloquent than would be many paragraphs of written discourse” *

aps are one of the most important sources for house history. In fact every map of the area in M a large enough scale ought to show the house under investigation, in more or less detail, at the time the map was surveyed (not printed). Besides providing clues to the date of buildings, the map will show at a glance not only the siting of the house itself but its surroundings: whether the locality is – already – built up, the relative affluence of the neighbourhood (from size and spacing of dwellings), the provision of certain amenities. Alone it cannot , of course, show where an area has ‘gone downhill’ and the properties perhaps converted into multiple occupancy. A series of maps will tell much of the story even further back in time, such as the uses the land was put to before the house was built. It is strongly recommended to begin with a recent edition of the Ordnance Survey maps and work backward through whatever the local library has to offer. Houses can be clearly identified on the For the Bromley area Local Studies in the Central 1868 Ordnance Survey Map of Library is first port of call, and then the Centre for Kentish Studies in Maidstone. Greater Record Office and Guildhall Library have extensive collections The reason for the making of the map should always be for the inner parts of London, both of OS and of other borne in mind because that had a bearing on what was types of map. included on it and what was left off. One thing you can be That in the Map Library at the British Library is sure of is that it was not drawn with house historians in comprehensive and well-indexed, and much of their view. Whether the map was newly surveyed or based on an holdings are not on microfilm and copies can be run off. earlier, perhaps out of date, one and how skilful was the It is usually possible to have better quality photographic surveyor must also be considered: and remember that copies made although it can be expensive. It may be conventional symbols must not be confused with actual possible to trace. representations. One expects to rely implicitly on the accuracy of the OS, Besides the OS the most useful are tithe and enclosure and basically this trust is well-founded. The very early maps, and estate maps. Others were made for a whole editions were, however, experimental and some host of reasons, some of use and some not. But once mistakes were made. Wichambreaux in east Kent for bitten by the bug the house hunter can find himself instance appears to have inexplicably migrated to our exploring the many varied treasures gathered into the record offices and libraries both locally and, maybe, further West Wickham. afield. The chances that any map may show anomalies and inaccuracies increase with age. The golden rule is, as * Domesday Book and Beyond, 1897 F W Maitland with any research, to seek corroboration. This will usually be by comparison with other, usually later, maps whose Front cover map accuracy has already been assessed, but it could be Section of the map of the hundreds of Bromley and through documentary sources, or even aerial Beckenham from Hasted’s History and Topographical photography. Survey of the County of Kent, 1778

Bromleag March 2003 P4 News - help Retirement of curator who record its history brought museum to life Do you live in Penge, did you grow up there or do you have family or business Dr Alan Tyler, who has been curator of Bromley Museum at connections with the area? Orpington Priory for over 16 years, retired at the end of last year. If so, David Johnson – who is writing a Way back in 1985 the museum was in a moribund condition, little history of the area – would like to hear money had been put into it for some years and although there was from you. a curator the displays were getting a bit dusty. You can write to him at 16 White Oak BBLH and a number of other local organisations formed Bromley Drive, Beckenham or phone 0208 658 1465. Heritage to try and get something done and Bromley Council then decided to spend some money and Alan Tyler was appointed. He was able to erect new displays and, with a new policy of - looking for Joseph having temporary exhibitions in the entrance hall, the place became much more lively. Pament He was given an assistant and both of them have taken One society member has come forward archaeology out of the museum, especially to the schools. with interesting material for David on a Alan has also been involved with Orpington and District Yorkshireman, Joseph Pament, who Archaeological Society (ODAS) and directed the further excavation settled in Penge in the 19th century and at Roman bath house which has been opened to the became not only a successful builder but public once a year. a well respected councillor. Before Alan came to Bromley he was an archaeological field Unfortunately, David has lost contact with officer with Shropshire County Council, which included time at the the person who gave him the material. If Ironbridge museum, and MSC project officer in Castlefields, that was you or you know about Joseph Manchester where the main site was a part of a Roman fort. The Pament please contact David at the above members and the committee of BBLH join together in wishing him a address. long, happy (and busy) retirement. Patricia Knowlden - historic walks David Johnson is leading two walks, in Trust plans turned down March and May, around historic Penge. The walk on 11 March, for Environment Bromley Council has rejected proposals to include the borough’s Bromley (ENBRO), starts at 10am from the libraries and museum in a not-for-profit trust that will take over the Rangers hut at the Penge entrance to sports, leisure, recreation and landscape arm of the council. . During the two hour walk David will be visiting both sets of The libraries, currently part of the Leisure and Community alms houses, those built for the widows of Services directorate, will remain within council control when the naval officers and those of the watermens trust takes over the other recreational services provided by that and lightermens. There will also be a visit division. The libraries will now have to find a new home in the to the Tomei works, plasterwork council management structure. Staff will be consulted over any changes that will affect them says head of marketing and cultural specialists. development Brian Turpin. There is limited parking in the area and He said the council looked at the legal aspects of the proposal the 227 bus stops near the Crystal Palace and at what services the council has a statutory obligation to Park entrance. provide. “Members were concerned that as the trust will be an On 16 May at 10.30 David will join independent organisation they would not be able to guarantee the Vanessa Williamson from the library and trust would provide that service,” said Mr Turpin. they will lead a walk beginning from He added that it was this legal aspects that had stopped the Penge Library, Maple Road. council including the libraries in the privatisation and that the Further details of both walks can be found executive member for libraries and culture was sorry that the in the ENBRO leaflets available at Bromley libraries weren’t able to share in the benefits of being in the trust. libraries.

P5 Bromleag March 2003 P5 Society meetings—reports Thomas Clark Quire - a delightful evening

Brian Reynolds gives his account of a very enjoyable entertainment, the performance by the Thomas Clark Quire at the December meeting.

Thomas who you enquire? informative. Well, let me tell you. If you didn't attend our last meeting Once again the terrible acoustics of our hall made some of the year, to be entertained by The Thomas Clark Quire, of the detail unintelligible, but the use of our amplifier was you missed a treat. impossible as the narration was passed from one member What a scintillating performance to finish of a year of of the 'quire' to another. I don't think we missed too much very good meetings indeed. Dressed in period costume of of what was being said. the early 18th century, a string sextet and a choir of 15 Our audience, one of the largest of the year (40), warmly voices played and sang church music of Kentish applauded each item and there was sustained applause at composers over a period dating from 1729 to 1830. In the end. I think everyone shared my enjoyment of this addition to being very melodious and pleasing to the ear, novel and most professional performance. Sincere there was an element of education about our own county congratulations to both the 'Quire' and Elaine Baker for as the introductions were embellished, not only by the searching them out and booking them. narrator, but from amongst the choir and sextet. Details of the composers and the works was light-hearted but very Treasures in the Bromley archives

romley Local Studies Library played host to the society for and the Medhursts Scrapbook, a deeds for the properties that later B the February meeting and compilation of the stores – the became the store. They included HG Elizabeth Silverthorne, Simon Finch forerunner to Allders in Bromley – press Wells’ birthplace and have raised a and Sally Deves revealed, adverts with annotations. question as to the accuracy of the respectively, some of the new items in While the school diary of accepted renumber of the High the archives, new books in the primary school for the autumn of 1940 Street in 1933. “ On the deeds it collection and some of the ‘buried’ recounts the activities and lessons held can be seen that number 47 treasures that lie not so much in the in the school. Elizabeth said: “Some of became 170 not 172, as quoted in vaults of the library but in the vast the references to gunfire are disturbing. many of the books on HG Wells, this storage room at the top of the It shows the effects of the war on highlights that printed ‘facts’ need building. to be checked for accuracy,” said everyday life.” Archivist Elizabeth Silverthorne Sally. But as well as the new acquisitions showed us several old photo albums there were some intriguing records that There were maps, deeds and wills that have been recently acquired, or have been ‘in store’ for a long time. for several estates. An account of are on loan, by the library. They cover Simon said: “These are items we didn’t the beating of the bounds of Chislehurst, Bromley and the Mill know we had, or knew we had, but Orpington parish. “This is especially Camera Club album with photos of St useful as it gives field names and hadn’t seen for a long time.” Mary Cray and Orpington area. On this descriptions of the area and covers last Elizabeth would welcome help The local studies staff are a time when very little else is with identifying the photographs. concentrating on work in the archives available,” said Sally. store in preparation of the new archives Estate papers and correspondence cataloguing system due to arrive in the For Bromley plans, deeds, wills for Beckenham’s Oakhill Estate and spring. Eventually the catalogue will be and correspondence of the The for were among the more Heaysman Estate are useful for the online. official papers. But there were also history of Bromley High Street as delightful acquisitions that open a Sally Deves told members: “There are they indicate when the properties window of everyday life. The 1948-9 drawers and drawers of material to go were built and by whom. Bromley Ravensbourne through.” Taking us back in time from .But probably the most intriguing Townswomen’s Guild minute book the Medhursts Scrapbook she had and picturesque item was Mr

Bromleag March 2003 P6 Future meetings March to June 2003

Meetings are held at 7.45pm on the first Tuesday of the month, from October to July, in the Methodist Church Hall, North Street, Bromley. The hall has free off-street parking, good public transport links and fascilities for the disabled. Non-members are welcome at the society’s meetings for a nominal charge of £1.

Tuesday 4 March Looking Back at Lewisham — Diana Rimel Tuesday 1 April Annual General Meeting followed by The Happiest Days? — Dr Ron Cox Tuesday 6 May A History of Beckenham Hospital — Dr Adrian Thomas Tuesday 3 June An Armchair Walk around West Wickham — Joyce Walker

A good local studies read

here were over twenty ‘new’ A copy of Enid Blyton’s Real , people appearing in the Domesday books to browse through dur- written in 1923 when she was still living Book including details of the part of the T ing the meeting at the local in Beckenham. is now very rare and country where the name appears. studies library. Particularly interest- was acquired at auction. But It is not There were books relating to Crystal ing were those rare books which quite as unique as the book which also Palace, Penge, Sir John Lubbock, researchers are never likely to have had the most uninspiring and Beckenham and many more people and in their own collections. uninformative title, Papers on various locations. Books which will no doubt subjects. The author was George get well thumbed through in the future. Warde Norman, a long time resident of The Rookery, , and it was published in 1869. The book gives Norman’s views on many of the issues of the day, showing the breadth of his interests and the depth of his knowledge. It is also a book that is so rare that Bromley’s version is a photocopy acquired from the British Library, something that libraries are allowed to do when an original is impossible to obtain. Most of the other books were published this century. Some are local histories or about people with local connections such as Ray Dudley’s The Dr. F Alexander Baron airship story or Mary Cadogan’s Richmal Crompton and her Bromley connections. Respectively Beckenham and Bromley Common residents. Parnacott’s postcard album. He was There are also many guides which Setting an example: Vinson Close an engineer in Penge and the anyone carrying out research will find Residents Association’s History on postcards are of his work 1914 –18 useful, such as: Local newspapers our doorstep: a brief look at Little including photographs of special 1750 – 1820, The local historian’s Orpington was described by Simon machined tools and motorcars glossary of words and terms, as “A good example of a well- Discovering old handwriting and researched local history publication” Domesday People which lists names of

P7 Bromleag March 2003 P7 Society meetings—report Walking with the famous in Beckenham

disparate array of characters, past and present, were brought together by Cliff Watkins in his talk, A at the January meeting, entitled Beckenham’s Famous. Cliff, an accomplished photographer, discovered how many famous people have lived in the area when, as a member of the Beckenham Photographic Society, he was taking pictures of Beckenham for a CD-rom to commemorate the millennium. “Researching what there was in the area I stumbled, by accident, on all the Enid Blyton's house in Elm Road where, in 1912, she famous people and began to research their lives,” said locked herself in her bedroom and started writing. This Cliff. was in part to shut out of her mind the treachery of her beloved father Thomas, who went off with another We were introduced to Enid Blyton, who lived in no less woman, leaving Enid to battle alone against the demands than seven homes in Beckenham. And then to Cliff's of her mother Theresa who wanted Enid to knuckle down favourite, Enid's nephew Carey, an accomplished and grow up into a house proud Victorian lady. composer and no mean writer and poet. Both lived 30 years in Beckenham (Enid 1897 to 1929, Carey 1932 to 1965) and Cliff has an ambition to complete a book about the Blyton dynasty. In this connection, he met, fame and William Walker a diver who spent two years and talked quite extensively to Carey, before his death in underpinning the flooded foundations of Winchester July last year. Cliff used some of Carey’s anecdotes and Cathedral and who is commemorated by a statue there. photographs of the houses and places where the Blytons As well as Enid Blyton, other famous writers included grew up to bring the family and their era to life. - the poet; Mrs Craik who wrote the Other 20th century notables still living included the Victorian best selling novel John Halifax Gentleman; and comedian Bob Monkhouse and, possibly more famous, Jean Rhys a more recent novellist most famous for Wide David Bowie. Both honed their talents in Beckenham: Sargasso Sea. Bob tried out his jokes (often to derision) in local youth Cliff’s excellent collection of portraits and photographs of clubs and David his music in Haddon Hall in Southend the places where these, and many more Beckenham men Road and in the Three Tuns public house in the High and women, who have a claim to local, if not national Street, now called the Rat and Parrott. After a highly fame, lived, enlivened his successful David Bowie day on December 6th, 2001 talk and helped bring their when 300 people came from all over the country to contribution to witness the unveiling of a plaque and enjoy live music, Beckenham’s history to life. the campaign to get the name changed back to the During his talk, Cliff paid Three Tuns was intensified. And this year after a second tribute to other BBLHS Bowie night last month, Cliff is hopeful that the owners members David Johnson, might succumb to public pressure. Eric Inman, Pat Manning The past too has provided colourful characters. John and Ellen Barbet .They had Cator - the timber merchant, property dealer and been active recently member of late 18th century London society; Tom variously organising events, Thornton - publisher of the Beckenham Journal and writing books and giving father of modern Beckenham; Lady Annabella Byron, talks and helping with the wife of the famous poet. Beckenham's Famous Concert in St George's Among the famous buried and commemorated in Diver William Walker’s Church on 9 November last Beckenham Cemetery at Elmers End are cricketer WG grave in Beckenham Grace, Frank Bourne the soldier whose exploits helped year. Cemetery inspire the film Zulu, Thomas Crapper of sanitary ware

Bromleag March 2003 P8 News

Lottery funding hopes for Victoria County History

The long awaited topographical describing natural history and – initially. Bromley Borough Local volumes of the Victoria County geology, archaeology etc. (Bromley’s History Society have already made a Histories (VCH) for Kent could at last own local antiquarian, George Clinch, contribution and received a letter of see the light of day, thanks to the edited the Early Man chapter, not only thanks Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). for Kent but the 12 other counties as With funding from the HLF it would Many members will be aware of – well). be possible to make a start on the and probably have consulted – the A Kent VCH Trust is being formed, topographical volumes. It is planned red-covered tomes of the Victoria supported by the new Lord Lieutenant that the first volume would cover County Histories (VCH). Their of Kent, Allan Willett CMG. A steering towns in the lower Medway valley publication began over 100 years group has made their bid to the HLF and it could be many years before ago with the laudable and ambitious and, if successful - a reply is expected coverage reaches this part of the aim of several introductory volumes in March - and work could begin in ancient county. for every county, followed by “as the summer. Besides financial support a many as it would take” to provide Funds also have to be raised to number of organisations, such as short histories of every single match the lottery funding and an the University of Kent, have offered settlement with its boundaries. appeal has been made for donations help in kind, such as computers and The county of Kent only achieved for the funding, which is estimated to office space. the first three general volumes run to £67,000 per year for five years PK Wickham Court celebrates new lease of life with an open day by Patricia Knowlden

Wickham Court, tucked in among its trees close to West happily —with backing from the Schiller Foundation – Wickham’s ‘Church on the Hill’, is the oldest surviving brick thrilled to be in such romantic surroundings. New pupils -built dwelling in Kent and the greater London area. Built have already enrolled. 20 years before the battle of Bosworth gave the Tudors the In January I was invited to talk to the children – English throne, in 1485, it is a half a century older than especially those who were ‘doing’ the Tudor period - about Hampton Court. Wickham Court’s history. I think we all had a great time A family home until about 1930, it then became a hotel together. and, after the war, the venue for various educational To publicise the school there is to be an Open Day on 29 establishments. Two years ago it stood empty and March and I was told that members of BBLH would be very neglected and we became very welcome to pay a visit. concerned about its future, but things are very different today. Times have still to be finalised so if you are interested, keep an eye on local The owner of Eden Park papers or ring me nearer the time. School decided it was time to retire and now the children, teachers and all the desks and equipment have been transported to Wickham Court, where they have settle in very Wickham Court

P9 Bromleag March 2003 P9 Feature Cricketing and other memories of 19th century West Wickham

In the Bromley Mercury of 22 January 1932, 85-year-old James Divall, who was born in Bromley Road, Beckenham, and had lived for 62 years in West Wickham, recalled his life in the area. The interviewer at the time, describing Mr Divall, said: “ Although he is a little deaf his memory is as fresh as a young man’s.”

“I well remember the coach that ran through West walking. All my life I have been a tremendous walker. Wickham from London to Tunbridge Wells”, he said. Often I used to get up at six, put on an old pair of “They used to change horses under the tree outside The breeches and, without bothering to change my nightshirt, Swan. The proprietors of the coach were Lord Arthur go for a walk through Hayes and before going to Somerset, son of the Duke of Beaufort, and Sir Henry de business in the City.” Bathe, who married the famous Lily Langtry. She often used to ride in the coach. But whether she paid her fare or not I cannot say. “The old Surrey foxhounds used to meet at the tree. When I came here first the Rector was the, Rev John Thomas Austen, an old Cambridge Wrangler and a typical country parson. He used to drive a fat old cob in a brougham, and his coachman was also his butler and general factotum. It was generally reported that he followed the hounds, but although he used to turn out at the meet his old cob was too fat for that. “I don’t remember the stocks being at the tree – that was before my time – but an old fellow named Durling, who was verger at the Parish Church, used to tell us of seeing men put in the stocks. They put two there together, to keep each other company. If it rained they Mr Divall explained that when he left Beckenham put a tarpaulin over them and the old women used to School at 14 his uncle secured him a position in a City bank. “I had nothing much to do except suck acid drops,” take them out at cup of tea. he said. He ceased working when he was 65 and was “There was no railway in those days. It was openedon a given a small pension. Whit Monday 50 years ago and a whole tribe of villagers turned out to see the first train come in. The next day I Mr Divall is the sole surviving member of the old West caught the train at London Bridge and when I arrived at Wickham cricket club. “We were supported by the big West Wickham, about three-quarters of an hour later, I houses in those days and it was nothing to be able to get found I was the only passenger. ‘Oh’ said Mr Ridge, the £30 or £40 if we wanted it, but now people are taxed out stationmaster, when he saw me get out, ‘the first special of their homes,” he said. “Several Kent County cricketers used to play for WW. There were the Wilson brothers, down.’ from Beckenham, and there was an old “I also remember when there was no station at schoolboy, Monty Bowden, who was the youngest man Beckenham and we used to have to walk to Sydenham that ever played for . Dr W G Grace thought Station on the old Brighton line. I wonder whether people worlds of him. When he played for England at the Oval he would do that now? That is how I got me liking for

Bromleag March 2003 P10 made one of the grandest catches in the long field ever The club was kept going chiefly by outside support, but seen. eventually it got into debt and was closed after a time. “Another noted cricketer, who played for WW was Harry The Butt, the Sussex wicket keeper, who lived at Lewisham. building Of course, as he was a professional he shouldn’t have then played for us, but we transposed his named and called became a post office him Harry Tubb. in charge of “The first ground I ever played on was down Nursery Mrs Bishop. Lane and in those days we used to have a match on There was Good Fridays between married and single. We were not also a rifle under the control of the Church then – so long as we ate shooting a hot cross bun for breakfast it did not matter much what club, with a The Diwana Restaurant on the corner of we did afterwards. On one occasion we found the pitch range of Surrey Street formerly the Kismet Café covered with a heavy fall of snow the day before the the Playing and Conservative Club headquarters match. In the morning me met at the Swan (I don-t think Fields. It it was by arrangement) and, after talking things over, existed for a good many years until local support fell went to the big houses, commandeered all the brooms away with the invasion of outsiders who apparently care and swept the pitch clear. Then the sun came out and we more for the prizes than the sport itself. The range fell went on with the game. out of repair and the club came to an end several years “The winners of the match had to pay the price of a pint before the war. of beer each and losers had to pay for a pot each, and Mr Divall’s cricketing days are, of course, over. But he then we had to sit down and drink it. The police were very derives a great deal of pleasure from bowls. He has been good in those days, even though they did not get half the a member of the West Wickham Bowling Club since its money they do now. They would see you safely home that formation and the last season he was on the winning rink night and call the next day to see if you were all right. in the spoon competition. “A well-known character was Mr Crittall, who used to “I have enjoyed every day of my life in West Wickham”, live at Elm House (now pulled down) opposite the Stocks he said. “The old West Wickham people were delightful Tree. He followed the hounds and his peculiarity in people. Birthdays were kept up with dances in quite the playing cricket was old English that he always style and there wore his pads was always under his something trousers.” going on.” After a time the Asked what he cricket club thought of the changed its venue changes that to Peak Park - also have taken called Pig Park and place, he Pix Park - where decisively the Lecture Hall answered. “I do now stands. (1.) not like them The field was and if I were a rented by a man young man I named Young, who should be kept the butchers off.” shop on the opposite side of (1) The lecture West Wickham High Street looking towards the Swan the High Street, hall in Sussex now owned by Pratt & Co. Mr Divall recalled the surprise Road is he and a friend were occasioned one evening when their currently used by Age Concern as a pop-in parlour. practice was interrupted by men coming to mark out the road. Later the Rev Bertie Roberts, then Rector, allowed the club to have part of the glebe land, now called the Playing Fields. Among the institutions that have come and gone, Mr Divall mentioned the old Conservative Club that had its Submitted by Joyce Walker headquarters in the building known as the Kismet Café.

P11 Bromleag March 2003 P11 News/reminiscence William Morris Home sweet home house saved by at the museum National Trust Bromley Museum’s Homes Exhibition will be opening in Orpington on The National Trust has secured the future of 1 April before moving to the Central Library, Bromley in May. Panels Red House, Bexleyheath, which is of from the exhibition will go on tour to other Bromley libraries and com- international significance in the development munity centres later in the year. of the Arts and Crafts movement. The Trust The museum’s assistant curator, Alice Mayers, says the exhibition will provide both public access and a centre is not just about bricks and mortar. “It is exciting and dynamic. Com- for study, and ensure that this landmark in munity groups from across the borough have contributed and they the history of domestic architecture plays a have all explored the theme of home from different perspectives. part in the local community. Each of the groups interprets the theme and develops new skills.” Commissioned by William Morris and Funding has come from the Adult Learning Standards Fund. designed by Philip Webb, Red House was And however varied the contributions the one thing that has come completed in 1859 and lived in for five out of every contribution, says Alice, is that home is family. There is a years by Morris and his wife Jane. Morris reminiscence video, to which Bromley Local History Society members and his friends decorated the house in have contributed, there are contributions from the travellers commu- medieval style, conceiving in the process nity, from many of the new ethnic communities in the borough and a the idea of the firm which would become the manufacturing and decorating Jewish reminiscence project. company Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. There will be written, video and IT exhibits and more traditional The garden inspired Morris’s early designs crafts, such as beeswax candle making and batik work, which are for wallpaper and fabric. important elements of home for some groups, are being used to in- The Trust plans to open the house and terpret the theme. garden to visitors from early summer 2003. On Saturday 12 April, when there will be an activity day run by Details, when known, about the opening some of the exhibition contributors, Alice hopes to have an original will be on the NT website: Gypsy caravan outside the Priory Museum. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Memories of Muirhead’s factory Elmers End

Ron Smith recalls his time at the Muirhead’s Among the many products were mechanical computer factory in Elmers End to deliver torpedoes from ships and submarines; also ships’ stabilisers – electric equipment controls that had I worked at Muirhead’s from 1956 – 1962 as an appren- been developed from the gyroscopic platform of German tice. Peter Goff was my foreman and he later became V2 rockets captured towards the end of WWII. For these managing director. The Royal Navy had taken over the controls, based on magslips and synchors, a large de- factory during World War Two and their influence was still partment was established. During the war instruments there in the ‘50s and ‘60s due to the Cold War. were developed especially to combat the doodlebug or VI menace. Approximately 1000 people were employed there, over 500 on the production line, mainly women. Working con- Muirhead’s had taken over a number of properties in ditions were very good and there was an excellent can- Elmers End for research and development centres and teen and social club. The factory was modern, bright and did a lot of secret work on radar, communications, fax clean. The very large machine shop had up-to-date machines and other electrical instruments. lathes, milling machines etc., many of them automatic. The Muirhead family contributed a great deal in both WWI and WWII and during the Cold War in defence of the

Bromleag March 2003 P12 Feature Designed for worship and the committee In Bromleage (July 2002) Robert Crayford asked about the architect of Elmers End Free Church. Ellen Barbet has submitted the following piece from the Church archives, source journal unknown. It gives us a fascinating glimpse into the designing of this attractive little church.

remembrance, and so by the very Elmers End Church change of position emphasise our By the architect, Mr Herbert G Ibberson FRIBA Protestant Faith. I hope none will be offended at the avoid the feeling of froustiness little Latin on the ‘tester’. I know y duty was to a) design a which is, I am afraid, associated in Latin has a sinister suggestion, building suitable for its the minds of the ungodly with calling up obscurantism and cruel M purpose, and organized religion things, but it’s a fine sonorous b) to carry out the instructions of An unusual instruction from the tongue, it’s dead, so it can never die or be corrupted, even by America. the committee. committee was conveyed to me through Mr Knott (the Minister). He And it is the only universal tongue. If I do not intend to imply that these said: “We have but little money, a Breton peasant peddling onions things are antithetical. but should there be any to spare looks thro’ an open door, he will A suitable church is one in which beyond producing the barest needs understand – and the Italian organ people can speak, hear and see – spend it on a little extra height grinder, or the Bavarian corner- well, be comfortable – and so far as rather than on applied ornament”. I player (sic) in a German Band, and things material can help – be have done so, and the building is the public school boy from – anywhere. All will know what Jesus attuned to appreciate things almost violent in its stark austerity. Hominum Salvator means. And it spiritual. Yet I have tried to make it will link all together, Quaker, At Elmers End I am sure people cheerful, even gay, and while I Catholic, Baptist, Independent, can see the church is light and hope that conversation may be Unitarian. Jesus is the Saviour of there are no pillars in the way – and hushed and thoughts weaned from man to them all, tho’ as to how they I think they can speak, sing and the irrevalences (sic) which beset are saved they may all differ, and hear well. But I am sure they won’t us all, I hope no troubled soul will perhaps none understand. all be comfortable. Comfort be depressed by its surroundings, depends on heating and ventilation, but be sent away to face the world Outside the gable stands up high and on the question of warmth and with greater courage and a quieter among the friendly little houses. I would have further emphasised it by density of air men differ as they do mind on the less important matters of a fleche on the ridge, had there I hope no one will be offended by theology. One has on the one side been any money forthcoming. the central and honourable the fresh (and sometimes cold) air Bunyan and Milton guard the Free position of the communion table, modernist, and on the other the Church (Congregational) principles. under its canopy of blue and gold. I conservative fundamentalist who The symbol of the Church invisible understand that a time of silences holds that cosiness becomes the stands in the great window, a Cross, is a part of the service at Elmers vacant and made joyous with gold courts of the Lord. End, and in silence (unlike in for He is Risen. I made a suggestion of course of sermon time), one’s mind is apt to conduct which may in part remove wander. Will not the ‘holy table’ Under the arch of the entrance is a cause of offence to both right and reminding us of our Lord’s life and carved Come unto Me all ye that left. Have all the windows opened death and abiding presence, help Labour – I expect that labour will be immediately after every service more to devoutness than the most held to mean suffering as well as ends and shut – more or less- resplendent organ pipes? And then work. I am sure that the poor will before the next begins. I, with some on Communion Sunday let the always be welcome and I trust that impertinence, stress this point, table be brought down from its even the rich will not be sent empty open the windows immediately the high place, cover cloth of gold with away. minister has left the pulpit, the plain linen, gather around it as a winds of heaven rush thro’ and so family in simple, fellowship and

P13 Bromleag March 2003 P13 News

Orpington hosts Kent’s Public Record archaeology conference Office to become the The Council for Kentish Archaeology is holding its spring conference this year in Orpington at Crofton Halls on Saturday 5 April. The theme is to be National Recreating and Presenting our Archaeological Past – ways to present archaeological discoveries to the public increasingly interested and informed Archives on the subject. In April the Public Record  Members of Cantiaci Iron Age Living history from their ‘village’ near Office will join with the Gillingham will demonstrate Britain in the Iron Age (in costume, we Historical Manuscripts hope). Commission (HMC) to become  Sam Moorhead and Katherine Wiltshire from the British Museum will The National Archives. This tell how the museum displays for all Ages. bringing together of knowledge provides the public  Local archaeologist Brian Philp will talk about Presenting Roman Kent to the Public, which he, and his colleagues, have done with with a one-stop information shop on the official records such success for so many years, notably at the Painted House at and private archives that Dover and at Crofton itself. relate to British history. The villa will be open especially for the conference delegates between 11am and 12.30pm (80p or 50p concessions). Please apply for tickets, £3 per The PRO say: “This will person, including sae to: CKA, 7 Sandy Ridge, Borough Green, Kent TN15 8HP strengthen our continuing goal to provide national standards of care for the UK's The Allen Grove local history fund great archival collections: from government, charities The late Allen Grove left a legacy to the Kent Archaeological Society to and private individuals for the establish a fund to provide help for projects in research, preservation and ‘the benefit of all of us throughout enjoyment of local history’ – including exhibitions, publications and the world, and for future education. generations. The National Grants are not restricted to members of KAS and may be made to individuals, Archives will be based in Kew, societies or other groups. West London and will be They are usually a modest sun of £200 - £400. Applications must be launching a new website in submitted on the official form at the end of March and awards may not be 2004.” announced until the late summer. Further information from the General Secretary KAS, Three Elms, Woodlands Lane, Shorne, Gravesend DA12 3HH or email: [email protected]

Village voices – Cray oral history project With funding from the Millennium Awards scheme swimming in Orpington pond, riding on the milkman’s Orpington U3A local history have created Visitors to the hourse and cart and the Bug Hutch, the Orpington Village Voices fortnight which will be in Bromley Museum, Picture Palace. Orpington from 3 – 14 March. Orpington U3A oral history members hope that the Organiser Chris Fruin says visitors will be able to hear exhibition will promote interest in forming a larger “snippets of local people’s life stories illustrated with group co-ordinating oral history and reminiscence photographs from the past century. The change from a work locally. On 13 March they are planning to hold a string of villages along the Cray Valley to monolithic meeting to discuss oral history locally. suburbia.” Anyone interested should contact Chris on 01689 Some of the recordings were made as long ago as 821625 1972, others are recent. They include Christmas 1918,

Bromleag March 2003 P14 Research queries

Darwin and WWII bomb During WWII a bomb fell in the car park of the Greyhound I am a biologist and illustrator writing a book for young Hotel but failed to explode. adults that deals with Darwin's time at Downe, specifically Does anyone have any more details of this incident? with his earliest ‘botanical diversions’, the local orchids. (1862). Frick buses I want to try and show how his connection to his gardens About 1906 the Bromley and District Motor Omnibus and the countryside was the backbone of nearly 20 years Service was operating of wonderful detailed investigations of plant life. Darwin's four "Frick" buses. curiosity and powers of observation were remarkable. Even Has anyone any knowledge or pictures of these? today his little botanical works remain nearly perfect exam- ples of the continuing value of natural history studies, and Jack Ashby book the value of rooting one's self in one place. n 1944 many British prisoners of war were marched from I am looking for images of the area around Downe from their camps deeper into Germany. Shortly after the war a the latter part of the 19th century so I can better illustrate survivor of one of these marches, Jack Ashby, wrote a the background of the Darwin family's life and give a better book about his experiences. Jack is thought to have idea of why their children all remember it as a charmed lived in Bromley. Our enquirer would like to know more existence. Do you know of any local source of such images about this book and its author. Perhaps relatives still live (postcards etc) or any other material relevant to Darwin in Bromley? the country gentleman and gardener? Also any information concerning mid 19th century house- If you can help please get in touch with our chairman hold gardening as well as the Orchid Fever that gripped the Tony Allnut, contact details P2 English during the mid Victorian era. So much of the Darwin industry focuses on the big is- sues, the controversies, the stoic bearded image, the myth, and misses so much of what he was about and who HG Wells celebrated he was. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. To celebrate the re-launch of Bromley Library’s H G Rob Tuckerman Well collection Patrick Parrinder of the H G Well R.R. 2 Society is giving a talk: Warsaw, Ontario Canada, K0L 3A0 From Atlas House Bromley to Uppark Or email: [email protected] Kent vs Sussex in H G Wells life and writing 7.30 Wednesday 2 April Denise Rason has already put Rob in touch with Downe Small Hall, Bromley Library House and the Bromley library. Crystal Palace monsters Free internet access Ed Morton of the Morton Partnership, structural and civil engineers specialising in built heritage Bromley residents can get free Internet access fol- conservations, will be talking about his company’s lowing the installation of 125 computers in the fifteen involvement in the complex restoration of the Bromley libraries. Crystal Palace Monsters The access has been made possible by the lottery- funded People's Network, a project to connect all The restoration of the Crystal Palace monsters public libraries to the internet, with new IT facilities 6.45 Thursday 6 March and services and trained staff on hand to offer Committee Rooms at the Civic Centre, Stockwell support and advice. Close, Bromley

P15 Bromleag March 2003 P15 Chelsfield

Chronicles

One of our members Geoffrey Copus is planning to publish his history of Chelsfield later this year. Geoff's fascination with the parish began when, as a teenager, he helped with the task of blowing the church organ, by hand, for his father who was the church organist. He has been researching the history of Chelsfield, in primary sources, ever since - over 50 years - and has accumulated a vast amount of information. The following are some of the topics that will be included in the book:  Chelsfield hamlets - Pratts Bottom, , Well Hill, Maypole  The manors of Chelsfield - Hewitts, & Norsted  Emigrants from Chelsfield including the story of the Mormon families who went to America  St Martin's Church - much hitherto unpublished material  The great Chelsfield inheritance case 1726- 1733  Lilleys Farm - a well documented history with a tragic end

Society members who have read the drafts of many of the chapters, and who know the extent of Geoff's research and knowledge, are already thoroughly recommending the book. It will cost £10 including UK p&p. for advance orders before 30 April. You can reserve a copy by writing to Geoff Copus, 17 Oakdale Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8DS or email him at [email protected] By ordering before 30 April you will become a subscriber and your name will be recorded in the book. No money is needed now. You will be invoiced prior to publication for your personalised copy.

Bromleag March 2003