History of Rochford

The rural district of Rochford, established as the ‘Rochford Hundred’ with the coming of the Normans to England. The district is rich with history, boasting numerous medieval churches and old buildings. The ‘Mount’ at Rayleigh is the remains of the original Norman castle Motte and Bailey and the oldest parts of the ‘Old House’ in Rochford date back to 1270. In 1515 Rochford Hall became the property of Bollen (Boleyn) whose daughter, Anne, was the second wife of Henry VIII. Henry visited the hall in 1533 and frequently visited Hadleigh castle (open to the public) which was built for King Edward III and commands extensive views over Leigh Marshes and the Thames Estuary. In Canewdon the Original village stocks can still be seen today.

World War Two Defences in Rochford

The aim of the Rochford Hundred Field Archaeology Group project is to locate, record, photograph, assess and interpret Rochford’s WWII defences using records, aerial photographs, wartime maps and teams of local volunteers. Rochford, in South Essex, has an interesting 20th century heritage, including a concentration of Second World War defence works. Rare surviving records give details of these. Using these records, aerial photographs, wartime maps and teams of local volunteers, the project will locate, record, photograph, assess and interpret these defences. Working closely with a professional Military Archaeologist, the group will help produce a report, including an individual record of each site as well as an historical overview, methodology, assessment of importance and recommendations for preservation. Future benefits are expected to include interpretive boards, leaflets, trail guides and guided walks lead by former project volunteers.

Milestones of Rochford District - http://www.milestonesonline.co.uk/essex-se.htm
ROCHFORD HUNDRED HISTORICAL SOCIETY Patron: Mrs L.E. Jerram-Burrows Meetings held in the W.I. Hall Rochford Square at 7.45pm, every 3rd Friday of the month except August and December Visitors £2.00 OFFICERS President Mr. Graham Manley Vice Presidents Dr. David Reynolds Mr. Mark Roberts Chairman Revd. Brian Shannon Tel: 01702 464737 Vice Chairman Mr. Norman Ventris Tel: 01702 589031 Secretary Mrs. Ann Willis Tel: 01702 205169 Treasurer Mr. Maurice Drage Tel: 01702 544847 Membership Secretary Mrs. Elaine Graham Tel: 01702 545638 Talks Chairman Mrs. Janet Pallett Tel: 01702 205552 Committee John Cannell, Ron Christian, Jan Churchill, Sheila Dowell, Sylvia Drage, Melody Hurst, Norma Wilkins

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