Odiham, George Hotel 1924

Photo ref: 75277

More about this scene

Situated in the High Street, this late medieval courtyard inn dates from 1474, and before its restoration in the 18th century was jettied along its entire frontage. The date AD 1547 on the sign probably records new ownership. In 1544 Henry VIII had confiscated this property and the lands that went with it, and the owner (a Roman Catholic) was outlawed for high treason. The Petty Sessions were held here until 1882, and over the years the premises were also a posting house, a railway booking office and an Excise and Inland Revenue office. The inaugural meeting of the Odiham Society for Agriculture and Industry was held here in 1783. The initiative shown by this local society led to the formation of the Royal Veterinary Society. The last building on the same side of the road had been occupied since 1915 by Mr W Boyce, builder, plumber, house decorator and sanitary engineer, continuing the business started by Mr J J B Cooper c1850.