My talks all relate to the local history of Croydon and its connected areas. See below for a brief summary of each subject.
Hamsey Green Airfield & The Gardner Family
The story of a private airfield owned by a local family who ran a global international business. The family were high achievers, not only in business but for Charles and Jimmy, in aviation and later at sea.
Benjamin Beeson
Born in Norfolk, Benjamin fought at Crimea where he took part in the Charge of the Light Brigade. Joining the Police after he left the army, was based at Sanderstead Mounted Patrol Station, where he served the community and was a widely known and respected figure.
Croydon Water History
The story of the supply of water in Croydon told through the various locations that were constructed from the late 19th century onwards. It covers how water was first taken from ponds in the town, and what needed to change to avoid the impacts of such a process.
Mountwood House
The story of a house and its people from construction in the 1920s to a complete rebuild of the site in the last 10 years. Some of the residents have remarkable stories associated with them, involving international news events.
Coming Soon . . .
Sanderstead Grave Stories
Woodside Court - A House Through Time
West Hall area, Warlingham