Nostalgic memories of Waltham Abbey's local history
Share your own memories of Waltham Abbey and read what others have said
For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our web site to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was when the photographs in our archive were taken. From brief one-liners explaining a little bit more about the image depicted, to great, in-depth accounts of a childhood when things were rather different than today (and everything inbetween!). We've had many contributors recognising themselves or loved ones in our photographs.
Why not add your memory today and become part of our Memories Community to help others in the future delve back into their past.
Add a Memory!
It's easy to add your own memories and reconnect with your shared local history. Search for your favourite places and look for the 'Add Your Memory' buttons to begin
Displaying all 8 Memories
Our Barge King Edward V11, was moored at The Lock Waltham Abbey C 1954 I was 14 years old. I loved the mooring and used to go often to the Cinema's in Waltham x. I became a member of the Drama Group in the Abbey. One Sunday I saw a beautiful girl standing on the steps of the cinema in Waltham Cross, with her friend. I walked up the steps, took her in my arms and kissed her on the lips. I then turned away and walked ...see more
I was born there in 1947 when my mum was visiting her family. My folks met at the Sun Inn in 1944 when my dad was stationed nearby. They were married in the abbey in 1946 and her maiden name was Wackett, by name and nature as I and my brother found out if we failed to toe the line. We lived in Sussex and visited three or four times a year, at the bottom of the garden was a field which I understand is now occupied by ...see more
I went to quaker lane ,i remember it as massive gothic looking building. Teachers mr Harris, mr goodyear , he had loads of stuffed animals in his glassroom. Miss godwin and her nature table , we were incouraged to bring in bits and pieces for it. Tap poles etc. Lol. I remember building the new swimming pool and having lessons in it. Children in my class were renee malone, cheryl eden, cathy codell, ...see more
My mum and dad used to own the pub, my mum sadly passed away in January 1981 and my dad moved out around April 1981. I have many fond memories of customers who used to use the pub and was really surprised that the pub was demolished as it was a listed building.
I was in the top year at Waltham Holy Cross County Primary in 1966. We took the 9th centenary of 1066 very seriously, given King Harold's connection with the Abbey. I wrote and directed a film for the school children. The sound synchronisation didn't work so we had to also have a voice over script when the film was shown. It must have been dire, but we did our best. There was also a big ...see more
I call it my town because it is, it is everybody’s town that lives here. My wife Patsy and I moved here very recently, in October 1999, this was after visiting the town in previous months, we found the people warm and welcoming, where please and thank you are the norm, this was unheard of back in north London, where we lived in a 2 bed semi off Hornsey Rd N19. Waltham Abbey is like old England, separated from the rest ...see more
My family lived in Waltham Abbey from 1955 to 1961 and living there left a lasting impression on me. I attended Waltham Holy Cross County Primary School during this time and at the ripe old age of 8 auditioned there to become a chorister. The teacher was one Mr. Goodger whom I remember as a kindly old man. (I guess all adults seemed old in those days). Anyway I passed the audition and ...see more
I was born in Waltham Abbey and lived there until I was twenty eight. It is the place I call home, where my roots are. Many times I remember going into the Abbey Church; there is such a feeling of serenity and the presence of God there. As a young person I went there for quietness, to meet with God and on so many times I left feeling refreshed and restored. nowdays when I go back and open ...see more