Local History

local history by Stephen Guy, West Derby Society

On The Map

Communities, buildings and landscapes change constantly – some very little, such as much-loved ancient structures, while others are cleared away as needs change. This also applies to such things as transport systems and other aspects of local infrastructure from wells to electric cables.

Old maps capture moments in time and can be read like a book, following an absorbing story expressed in symbols and names.

Maps of West Derby Village, for example, show the pace of change accelerating as the community grew. Before about 1850 it was still largely rural. The ancient chapel stood in the middle of the Village, a feature for many generations. William Molyneux, 4th Earl of Sefton, was largely responsible for the rebuilding of the Village from the 1850s. Until then it had been rather higgledy-piggledy, a confusing hotchpotch of buildings that had developed over many centuries. Several, including the chapel, were cleared away to create the wide central area we know today. Thankfully some buildings were preserved, including the Tudor courthouse and yeoman’s cottage. New premises were designed to create a fine visual impression, particularly for those coming and going to Croxteth Hall. Our photo shows a horse-drawn tram passing the old Sefton Arms one summer’s day in the late 1890s. An arch gives access for carriages and a cyclist passes a horse-drawn cart parked at the kerb. Beyond are grounds next to West Derby Orphanage around the corner in Town Row.

In the background, in front of St Mary’s Church, is the gleaming new fountain installed in 1894. It was the gift of Richard Meade-King (1850 – 1906) who lived in Sandfield Park. Set insight of three public houses, the Portland stone fountain bears the forthright inscription Water is Best.

Designed by architect Arthur P Fry and surmounted by a lantern (restored some years ago), the water basin was decorated with a panel in gold, red and green mosaic. The Molyneux family donated the land for St Mary’s Church, replacing the old chapel. Designed by leading architect Sir George Gilbert Scott, the church with its 160 ft high tower was consecrated in 1856. The gates to Croxteth Hall’s main drive are next to the church. An 1851 map marks it as “new road” – it may have been constructed for the visit by young Queen Victoria, husband Prince Albert and growing family in that year.

Visit the West Derby Society web site: westderbysociety.wixsite.com/westderbysociety

west derby & croxteth park

LIVERPOOL’S BIGGEST AND BEST COMMUNITY MAGAZINES

Do you want to get your business into the heart of the community?

Our B5 glossy magazines are hand-delivered into thousands of homes in L25, L18, L15, L16, L17, L19 & L12 PLUS pick-up points in supermarkets, businesses & more. Let us help you grow your business today.