HISTORY OF ILFORD

As Ilford's population grew so did a need for entertainment outlets. Many newcomers into the area were white collar workers that worked in the city who had plenty of spare cash in their pockets to pay for a night out. Designed by theatrical architect Frank Matcham the Ilford Hippodrome opened on November 8, 1909. Some of his other designs included  the Hackney Empire (1901); the London Coliseum (1904); the London Palladium (1910) and the Victoria Palace (1911). Described as 'the most beautiful building in town' it had 2,500 seats and construction cost £35,000. 

Disaster struck on January 12, 1945 during a performance of Robinson Crusoe starring Rene Houston and Donald Stewart. One of Hitler's V2 rockets fell from the sky landing on cottages behind the theatre. The explosion caused the theatre's back wall to collapse covering chorus girls and stage hands in debris, ninety were injured and there was one death. The theatre manager urged everybody to remain calm and the orchestra started playing. This had the desired effect on the audience who started clapping in appreciation. There was no sign of panic and the theatre was evacuated in an orderly fashion. The roof and upper circle fell in two days later. The building was pulled down in 1957.

Memories of Brian Ecott: 

"I visited the Hippodrome to watch a show when I was seven - a week later a V2 dropped on it!"

Postcard Publisher: Unknown

Posted:  8th June 1914

"Dear M, Sorry not to have answered your P.C. busy as usual you know. Shall see you tomorrow leave here 3.45 I think. Hope all are well. Love M.G."

Churches

Clock Tower

Cranbrook Castle

Cranbrook Road

Empress Avenue

Fire Station

General Post Office

High Road / High Street

Ilford Hippodrome

Ilford Lane

Park Avenue

The Broadway

The Drive

Town Hall

Transport

Novelty

Multi-view

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