HISTORY OF ILFORD

Ilford's civil affairs were dealt with over a shop at 3 Cranbrook Road before 1898. When the town grew larger it became obvious that a bigger building would be required. As a temporary measure the Council moved to old Ilford Hall while a new Town Hall was built. 

A foundation stone was laid by Councillor Gilson on 17th March 1900, a bitterly cold day with snow covering the ground. Two sealed bottles were placed in a hole under the stone. These 'time capsules' held a copy of the architect's statement, a copy of the Ilford Guardian, the Times newspaper and British coins minted in 1900. A grand ball took place when the Town Hall opened in December 1901. Three hundred guests attended, mainly councillors, local businessmen, prominent people and their families. Due to the careless action of someone leaving a lit cigarette on a green baise table the Town Hall nearly burned down on the first night. An alarm sounded, the Fire Brigade arrived and celebrations came to an abrupt end. 

In 1909 it was decided that an extension would be built but everything was put on hold due to World War One. Central Library and other offices were eventually added in 1927.

Postcard publisher: Charles Voisky, London

Photographer: W.Hornby

Posted: 27th August 1903

"Dear Edie, Many thanks for your pretty card. Hope you are having better weather than we. You could not cycle much in London this weather. Should love to be with you. Fondest love from all to all. N. Dawson"

Churches

Cranbrook Road

Town Hall

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