The Southwick Society has published a new local history book. Written by Southwick Society chairman, Mary Candy, this book is a further exploration of some of the long-lost places often referred to by locals; Where was Southwick Windmill and what happened to it? Where were the Railway Cottages? What is the history of the embankments in Southwick Recreation Ground and who was Henry Smith, whose charity owned much of Southwick for very nearly four hundred years? The Coastguard Cottages may still be standing, but hidden behind a block of 1920s maisonettes they are easily overlooked. And which famous face once lived there?
Mary said “A chance email from someone looking for a suitable home for the dartboard saved from the original Windmill Inn by his grandmother, when the pub closed in 1934, led me to wondering where Southwick Windmill had stood and what happened to it. Another email asking if I had any information about the Railway Cottages, which I had not even heard of until then, led me to several past residents who kindly described the cottages and shared some photographs. West Sussex Record Office holds documents showing indentures relating to Eastbrook Farm as far back as 1682 and the Coastguard Cottages still stand, although the station closed down nearly a hundred years ago.”
Drawing on extensive research, as well as personal memories of Southwick residents, written records, and photographs from past residents and the Society’s own archives, Mary has pulled together a picture of what these places once looked like and how they have left their legacy on our town.
Southwick Enigmas costs just £7 and all profits go to support the work of the Southwick Society.
There will be an official book launch on Saturday 11th July from 10.30 to 12.30 at the Manor Cottage Heritage Centre, Southwick Street. The book can then be purchased from the heritage centre which is open every Saturday morning from 10.30 to 12.30 until August 29th. Copies can also be obtained by emailing southwicksociety@gmail.com