MERTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY Research
1 Reminiscences
Merton Historical Society has published a number of recollections by local residents in our series of Local History Notes.
Most of these are by Mitcham residents with memories ranging from the 1920s to the 1960s, though there are a few relating to Merton and to Morden. We even have reminiscences from the 18th and early 19th centuries,
We would particularly welcome reminiscences of local commercial and industrial activities.
2 Share your Memories
If you would like to share your own memories of the area in bygone days, please leave a message in the box below:
3 Memories of Morden Between the Wars: a ‘Chat Show’ held in September 2012
In September 2012 the Society organised a ‘Chat Show’ hosted by Peter Hopkins with guests who grew up in Morden in the 1930s and whose families lived in Morden before suburban development in the area. Audio clips and photographs can be accessed from the links on this page. The audio clips have been rearranged by topic, and include some of the questions and comments from the audience at the end of the meeting.
4 A Century of Change
In March 2017 Peter Hopkins was asked to create an exhibition on A Century of Change in Lower Morden and Cannon Hill, for an Open Day celebrating the 60th anniversary of St Martin’s Church, Camborne Road, Morden.
Excavations
During the 1960s and 1970s the Society was involved in archaeological investigations on the following local sites threatened by development.
Family History
Several members of the Society are involved in researching their family history.
GROWING UP ON THE ST HELIER ESTATE 1930–1950: School, Wartime and First Jobs
Albert Smith recalls his wartime childhood on the St Helier Estate Morden, his schooldays, and his first job at Hawes Bros, Morden.
Manorial Documents
Translations of most of these Morden manorial documents, including court rolls and more than 100 account rolls are being added to this website and can be viewed or downloaded.
Parish Records
The Parish Registers for Morden and Wimbledon to 1812 were transcribed, indexed and published in the early 20th century.
Research Notes
The Society has inherited from former members various files containing their research notes. Although some of these have been published as standalone booklets or articles in our Bulletins, many contain incomplete and unpublished research material, or additional material to update published works.
Some Interesting Documents
The Society is often given original documents of local interest which we pass on to the appropriate archive, while retaining a digital copy. Some of these items are being added to our website
WW1 Conscription in Mitcham
The passing of the Military Service Act in January 1916 enforced compulsory military service upon British society for the first time in modern history. Single men and widowers without children aged 18 to 41 were now liable to serve in the Army as long as they were not in a reserved occupation. In May 1916 the Act was extended to cover both single and married men and in 1918 was extended in age range up to 51.