Website created 27 April 2012. Based on 'Victoria' Style template.
Welcome to a History Website about Forest Hill and Sydenham !
If there is something about the history of these two areas that you have always wanted to want to know, look no further, help is at hand. If you live in one of the two areas, it is hoped that there will be topics to interest you. If you don't live nearby, perhaps you will enjoy finding out about this 'little corner' of London !
Several Websites exist which relate to the same subject. This one will give you some of the background to the two areas and try to set Forest Hill and Sydenham into the wider context of the history of London.
The Images in the Banner
Two images in the top banner, both taken from Edwardian postcards, have been chosen to represent each of the areas. Larger vesions of these images appear other pages of this Website. On the left, representing Forest Hill, is the rather grand building of Forest Hill Station, removed in the 1970s. On the right, representing Sydenham, is the Greyhound pub which stood on the site from the early 1700s. It was almost completely demolished between 2010 and 2012 due to redevelopment.
How well do you know Forest Hill and Sydenham? These images are just a fraction of the more unusual locations and objects to be seen on the streets.
The Aims of this Website
On these pages will be found a list of the topics of interest - including streets, houses, pubs, churches and many other curios - within the areas of Forest Hill and Sydenham. The origins of place names will also be given and, in addition, a description of how the land developed into the localities that exist today.
All the images shown on this Website were taken by Adrian Prockter. They derive mainly from slides or digital images. Some of the pictures are reproduced from old postcards also in the author's possession. All images and text are copyright and remain the intelectual property of the author. If you would like larger copies of any of the images, please make contact, using the email address on the 'Contact' page.
Adrian Prockter was born in Forest Hill and still lives within the SE23 boundary today. He has lectured extensively on the history of Inner London which, of course, includes the London Borough of Lewisham, where the two areas are situated. It is to be hoped that you glean something of interest as you look through these pages.
Having known the area from childhood onwards, some of the history almost comes as second nature. Many people only live in the area for a short time or come to it from another place. It is hoped that, whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer, you find something of interest. There is still plenty of evidence for the area's history all around you !
