East Surrey FHS Parish Pages

Caterham

Parish Information St Lawrence This small downland church is a fine example of what early Surrey churches might have looked like. It is estimated that construction started in the late eleventh century and the original Norman building consisted of a nave and chancel. In the twelfth century a south aisle and chapel were added. This has disappeared, possibly due to fire, but the north aisle added at the same time remains. The east wall, originally apsed, was rebuilt in the late 17th century but the roof timbers lean steeply to the east The church now has a nave, chancel, north aisle, vestry and porch. There is a small timber turret. It has not been used for services since 1866 and only occasionally for other functions since a refit in 1927. St Mary This church was built in 1866 opposite the old church of St. Lawrence because of the increased population. A typical Victorian edifice with a spire added in 1883 and further extensions in 1916. History Until 1856 Caterham was a typical small village on the North Downs. This changed when the railways came through the valley and the station hotel was an ornate building on its own in the countryside. Gradually, the town was built around it. During the 1930s building extended from Coulsdon to include the remnants of the village on the hill. The Guards depot, on the hill, was started in 1877 and had a great influence on the growth of the village. It was home to some of the well known British regiments over the years until it closed in 1990. It was the largest Army depot of the Victorian age. The listed buildings have been protected and converted into flats. The church has become a skating park. The rest of the area has a supermarket, gym and doctors surgery. The East Surrey Museum is very close to the station and holds many interesting exhibits. It has just obtained a valuable collection of old postcards of the area which are available to view. The local history group, the Bourne Society, is very active with a large membership. ‘The Guards and Caterham – The Soldiers’ Story’ is available to buy from Ronald Melvin (01883 723586), click the link for more information (opens in new window) - all profits are used to send Guards in lower ranks on holidays with their families between tours of duty. Local websites St Lawrence's St Mary's Bourne Society Map of the area ESFHS Resources Various books available for loan to members. Parish registers and MIs are on CD RGMR001 Contents: St Lawrence & St Mary the Virgin Baptisms 1836 - 1910 Marriages 1837 - 1920 Burials 1836 - 1920 includes Memorial Inscriptions Local Resources East Surrey Museum North Tandridge Local History Centre (use Search to find LHC)		St Lawrence
		St Lawrence, old postcard St Mary St Mary, old postcard Guards chapel, Caterham barracks Former parade ground, Caterham barracks
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