The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
History of the lost villages of Peterborough
THE Story of Dogsthorpe and Lost Villages of Peterborough will be brought to life in two events next week, delivered by the Peterborough Local History Society.
HOSTED by the Mayor of Peterborough Cllr Paula Thacker, historians Stephen Perry and Neil Mitchell will show nostalgic and beautiful views of the city from yesteryear in two talks,
The origin of the name Dogsthorpe is believed to date back to Anglo-scandinavian times, and means an “outlying farmstead associated with an individual called Dod”.
It has been given numerous other names throughout its history, including Dodestorp, Dusthorpe and Doggesthropp, and maps stretching back to the 1800s show how its boundaries have changed.
Mr Perry said: “One of the biggest problems in putting together the talk was where the boundaries were. Back in the 1820s it went as far as Westwood, but now it’s more of a closed area.”
The talks will uncover a goldmine of hidden nuggets. Did you know, for example, that the land which later housed John Mansfield School boasted a wireless station during the First World War, used for tracking Zeppelins?
Or that there were two brickyards in the area, one of which finished operating in the 1900s and is now a recreation ground near Welland Road?
Many of those attending will remember the rumpus over the grisly “Resurrection” statue over the West door of Christ Church, built in time for the consecration of the church in 1958.
The Bishop of Peterborough, the Rt Rev RW Stapford, appealed for people to think about the concrete creation after it was described as resembling “a skeleton” in the local press.
It is believed the stone oddity was eventually removed and destroyed by persons unknown.
There’s also a trace of sadness at times, of buildings gone but fondly remembered.
Mr Perry said: “The Grange, which was once owned by renowned chemist John Sturton, was knocked down in the 1930s to make way for Grange Avenue Estate.
“Lawn House has gone and is now Lawn Avenue. If anyone has a photograph of Lawn House I would be most grateful.
“It’s also so sad to see such a wonderful building as Southlands – where estate agent Enderby Hansen once lived – get knocked down. It is now a cul-de-sac of bungalows.”
Another memory is Dogsthorpe Church of England School, which was sold to builders in 1958 who used it as a yard before it was demolished.
One joyous picture shows celebrations for the visit of Prince George in 1929. Hundreds of youngsters are seen lining the street on Broadway to wave Union Jack flags at the prince, who would later die in the Second World War.
Several photographs show the Blue Bell in its various guises, and a picture of the bar at the Old Scarlett Pub – now an Indian restaurant – showing a curious drinking habit.
Mr Perry said: “There used to be a penny tower, and when a person bought a pint they would add a penny to it until it was massive.
“I wonder if a tower like this would last very long nowadays?”
Two shows are being held at 2pm and 7.30pm at the Reception Room in Peterborough Town Hall on Wednesday, March 14.
The day will raise funds for the Mayor’s charities 2010/11, which are the Royal British Legion – Women’s Section, and Find a Cure for Alex – Kidney Research UK.
Tickets cost £4.50 (including refreshments) from the Destination Centre in Bridge Street (01733 452336) or the Mayor’s Office in the Town Hall (452319).