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History of Rochford
SOUTH STREET
South Street, or High Street as it used to be called, is to our left. Most of the premises are used today by the District Council. But let’s not pass without mentioning what is now the Diving business that occupies a nice little building, mostly 19th century, but suggestions of much older origins. Next door is the site of The Manse, which had been built if 1706 and, just a little later the Congregational Church minister was installed there.
Nos 7,9,11 and 15 are all of 18th century origins, well maintained and with lots of original features, although with later alterations. And then we arrive at the oldest house in Rochford, The Old House. This dates back at least to 1300 and was a private residence for many years, a shop in the 18th century and now, fully restored, is occupied by the Council. The Old House, with its walled garden behind is a gem.
Further 18th century cottages grace the rest of the east side of the road. Returning back up South Street we reach Sydenham House, late 18th century and at one time a boarding school.
Then we have what is now the Masonic Hall, built for £3,000 in the mid 1800’s as a Court House, a reminder of the pre-eminence of Rochford at that time. Behind here, incidentally was the Manorial windmill in use for some 600 years before its final removal early in 19th century
This brief tour of Rochford’s town centre hardly does justice to the many fine and interesting buildings to be seen here. There are over 140 structures with Listed Building status within the bounds of Rochford, ranging from “milestones” to mansions.
One should highlight Doggetts Farm on the borders of Rochford and stretching into Stambridge. Originally a Manor in its own right it has a history going back to the 14th century and beyond. It came into the hands of the Earl of Warwick in the 17th century when he will have acquired a manor house largely built some few years earlier. Many 16th century features remain. A number of adjoining buildings, stables, cart lodges, bakehouse and so on are of equal interest.
In Hall Road is The Lawn, already mentioned as the original gatehouse to Rochford Hall, is of the 18th/19th century but with some earlier features. Gusted Hall, a bit further west, is of 17th century origins, but again it has a history going well beyond that.
Much could (and has!) been written on Rochford’s past, with stories of its residents in days gone by. We are privileged that much of the town in which those people led their lives remains today to be enjoyed by us.
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