Chislehurst has a rich and interesting recorded history going back over a thousand years. There are so many areas for research, and new information is emerging all the time.
- The Society’s History Group, formed in 2013, has a initiated a number of research projects, many of which are now complete (look here for more information about the History Group).
- We regularly receive enquiries from researchers, residents or from families of former residents and we have summarised some of these here…
- There are many books about Chislehurst and its residents, some available from the Society (check here…), that delve into that history in varying details.
The following is a summary of what is known about Chislehurst and its people, set out under a number of different headings. Links and references are made, where available, to other sources.
Earliest references and ancient history
Chislehurst was most probably settled before the Norman Conquest, and if so, there has been a settlement here for at least a thousand years. More…
The ancient Manors of Chislehurst
Originally a part of Dartford Manor, owned by the Crown, the land in Chislehurst eventually became separated when the de Scathebury family purchased it. More...
The development of Chislehurst
A particular feature of Chislehurst is that it consists of four separate ‘villages’ within its Parish, separated by the Commons. Until the mid 19thC, Chislehurst was a rural community. The arrival of the railway, and then the exiled Emperor of France changed all that. More…
Features of Chislehurst
Chislehurst was best known for its proximity to the Commons and the ponds, and was a destination for thousands of Londoners on Bank holidays and weekends.
- The Commons and other open spaces. More…
- The ponds. More...
- Chislehurst’s churches. More…
- Monuments in Chislehurst. More…
Architects in Chislehurst. More…
Chislehurst’s buildings. More..
People of Chislehurst. More…