HISTORY OF ILFORD
Cranbrook Castle
Sir Charles Raymond
"Dear Marie, Thanks for PC. I hope I shall be able to see you next week at sometime or other. You must come over to our Swimming Gala. If you are off late you must meet me late. I do not care what time I reach home again. Hoping to hear from you again very soon. Yours Tommy"
#
Sir Charles Raymond commissioned a mausoleum for his family. In 1765, he spent £420 to construct a triangular structure for this purpose. The design featured chapel walls two feet (60cms.) thick, and it was noted for its durability, with the mortar resisting even the strongest nails. However, the site became known as "Raymond's Folly" after the Bishop declined to consecrate the grounds, which prohibited any burials there. As a result, Sir Charles Raymond and his family were interred at St. Margaret's Parish Church in Barking. During World War I, the structure was utilised by the Admiralty as an observation tower. The building was ultimately demolished in 1923.
#
"I arrived here quite safe just after 10. Uncle said if he had know I could have come by the earlier train he was at Wloo 7.30. So sorry my train was 1/2 hour late so hope Dad won't get a fresh cold. Oh what a night it was, it is lovely here today. With best wishes and fondest love yours & etc Annie. I forgot by black neck thing xxx"
#
“D Mrs H The box arrived safely on Sunday morning in which we thank you but no a/c, the other will do when convenient to you both love from us all, will write again when &c &c in haste yours again E C J”
#
Cranbrook Castle once stood near where Cranbrook Primary School was later built.
#
“45 Grange Road Ilford I am thinking of coming down to W on Thursday would like to see G. Please let me know if it will be convenient. Had to say all at home are fairly well.”
#
Written by Raymond Small.