Hammersmith and Fulham, a vibrant borough in west London, boasts a colorful history peppered with intriguing trivia and hidden facts. Let's dive right in!
Medieval Origins and Parish Life
Hammersmith and Fulham's roots go back to the medieval era. Fulham appears in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Fuleham," meaning the land of a man named Fulla. The area was predominantly rural, with expansive fields and small hamlets. Hammersmith, on the other hand, was a small settlement by the River Thames, emerging as a separate parish from Fulham in 1631.
Industrial Revolution: The Transformation
The Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries was a game-changer. Hammersmith transformed from a sleepy village to a bustling industrial hub. Notably, it became famous for its ironworks and the production of the distinctive Hammersmith Bridge, designed by the legendary Joseph Bazalgette, which opened in 1887.
Fulham, too, saw rapid urbanization. It was renowned for its market gardening, supplying fresh produce to London, and later became known for its porcelain and pottery industries.
The Arts and the Artists
Hammersmith has a rich artistic heritage. The Lyric Theatre opened in 1895, becoming a cultural landmark. The borough was also home to renowned artists like William Morris, whose Kelmscott House in Hammersmith became a hub for the Arts and Crafts Movement.
Football Fever
Football fans, rejoice! Fulham boasts two iconic football clubs: Fulham FC and Chelsea FC. Fulham FC, founded in 1879, is one of London’s oldest football clubs and calls Craven Cottage home. Chelsea FC, established in 1905, plays at the historic Stamford Bridge.
Literary Links
The borough has a rich literary history. Charles Dickens used to frequent the area, and it's said that parts of "Oliver Twist" were inspired by his walks along the banks of the Thames in Hammersmith. J.M. Barrie wrote "Peter Pan" while living in Kensington, not far from Hammersmith.
World War II and the Aftermath
During World War II, Hammersmith and Fulham were heavily bombed due to their industrial importance. Post-war, the borough underwent significant redevelopment. The creation of the Westfield London shopping center in 2008 marked a new era of economic rejuvenation.
Hidden Gems and Trivia
The Dove Pub: Located on the River Thames in Hammersmith, The Dove claims to have the smallest bar room in the world, as noted in the Guinness Book of Records.
The Fulham Palace: Once the summer residence of the Bishops of London, Fulham Palace is now a museum and botanical garden. Its history spans over 1,300 years!
The Hammersmith Ghost: In the early 19th century, Hammersmith was gripped by tales of a ghost haunting the area. It turned out to be a local man dressed in white to scare people as revenge for being teased. This led to a tragic case where a man was mistakenly killed, thinking he was the ghost.
The Legendary Apollo: The Hammersmith Apollo is a legendary music venue where acts like The Beatles and David Bowie have performed. It opened in 1932 as a cinema and has since become a cornerstone of London’s live music scene.
Modern Developments
Hammersmith and Fulham are not just about history; they are also focused on the future. The borough is part of London's tech hub, with numerous startups and tech companies setting up shop here. The redevelopment of White City into a media and tech hub is a testament to this forward-thinking approach.
Green Spaces
Despite its urban character, the borough is rich in green spaces. The Bishops Park, established in 1893, offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the River Thames. Ravenscourt Park in Hammersmith is another local favorite, featuring a lake, tennis courts, and even a walled garden.
Famous Residents
Hammersmith and Fulham have been home to numerous famous figures. Gustav Holst, the composer of "The Planets," lived in the area. Contemporary celebrities like Hugh Grant and Lily Allen have also called this borough home.
Educational Excellence
The borough boasts prestigious educational institutions. Latymer Upper School, established in 1624, is one of London’s top independent schools. The London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) in Hammersmith is a leading drama school with a global reputation.
In a nutshell, Hammersmith and Fulham are a blend of historical richness, cultural vibrancy, and modern dynamism. Whether you’re wandering through historic streets, catching a show at the Apollo, or cheering for your favorite football team, there’s always something fascinating to discover.