The Book of Addiscombe

The Book of Addiscombe provides a tour through this historic and vibrant community on the outskirts of Croydon in Surrey. The area has always been, and still is, one of influx and innovation. It is rich in fascinating history and stories. The book centres on the former Addiscombe Place - and later the East India Company - but encompasses neighbouring communities, services, trades and industries that enabled Addiscombe to thrive. Focussing on the formative 19th and early-20th centuries, the authors relate the story of those who had the vision to create the services essential to the area, where vital supplies came from and what life was like in the early days. Addiscombe was clearly the place to be seen in the 1860s and although its fortunes are forever changing, it retains that vitality to this day. The Book of Addiscombe uncovers the reasons for the area's unique qualities in a lavishly illustrated guide for all to enjoy. The Book of Addiscombe celebrates the last two centuries of the development of the area. The lively text is based on extensive research by members of the Canning & Clyde Road Residents Association and others from a wide range of local records and personal reminiscences drawn from across the community. The book includes more than 150 photographs, maps and other illustrations, accompanied by detailed captions which bring to life the rich history of Addiscombe, its traders and inhabitants down through the years. This superb book will be a fascinating record for anyone living in Addiscombe or for those who have family links with it. The main authors are local residents Steve Collins, Anne Bridge, the Croydon Local Studies Library and the late Doris Hobbs, helped by John Gent (The Croydon Society), and many, many more. The Book of Addiscombe is truly a community effort and numerous individuals have contributed to the project, through their photographs, memories and stories. ISBN 1841140945, hardback, 210x297mm, 160 pages.