Henfield Museum has a large map collection ranging from the local tithe map to historic OS maps and an idiosyncratic self drawn map by a Victorian Henfield resident. In addition, we also hold some historic aerial photos. All these show the dramatic change Henfield has seen, particularly since the Second World War, with old industries departing and the population tripling. An example aerial photo is seen below - others in our collection can be viewed in person on request.
The National Library of Scotland provides an excellent free resource for digital historic Ordnance Survey and other maps in addition to modern LIDAR imagery. These are view-able on their own on the website, in overlay or side by side with modern satellite imagery. Digital downloads or hard copies can be acquired for around £10.
The National Library of Australia provides free access to the 1st edition OS Map of 1805.
The National Library of Australia provides free access to the 1st edition OS Map of 1805.
Featured Image - Henfield in 1935
Taken from the west, the old lines of development around St. Peter's Church, along the High Street and at Nep Town can clearly be seen. The Victorian villas along Broomfield Road stand out, as well as the newer area of development alongside the railway and the post WW1 Holland's Road council housing at the bottom of the photo. Note also the limited tree cover on the common, the final area of sand pit excavation at far right and one of the several areas of greenhouses in the area of West End Lane at the bottom of the photo.
Colourised
Aerial photograph of Henfield from the west, 17th April 1935. Henfield Museum Collection (CC BY-NC-SA)
Original
Aerial photograph of Henfield from the west, 17th April 1935. Henfield Museum Collection (CC BY-NC-SA)