History of Woolwich
Woolwich has a long and layered history, stretching back to the Iron Age and evolving into a major centre for military and industrial innovation.
Early origins
Archaeological discoveries under Riverside Park, near the Royal Arsenal, reveal remains of a Roman fort and traces of an Iron Age settlement.
The name ‘Woolwich’ is of Anglo-Saxon origin, suggesting the area was once a trading post for wool, likely sourced from sheep grazed on the Plumstead marshes.
Military and naval history
In 1512, Henry VIII chose Woolwich as the site for building his flagship, Henri Grace à Dieu, marking the beginning of the Royal Dockyard. This royal connection grew with the addition of:
- A rope-making facility
- A royal laboratory for producing munitions, fuses, and shot
These sites evolved into the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich, the country’s largest munitions producer at its peak.
The presence of these institutions transformed Woolwich into a thriving industrial town, which expanded into the neighbouring areas of Plumstead and Charlton by the 19th century. Woolwich Common also became the base for the Royal Artillery.
River crossing and the Woolwich Ferry
Woolwich has long served as a crossing point on the Thames. In 1086, records show it included territory on the north side of the river, what is now known as North Woolwich. This area remained part of Woolwich until 1965, when it became part of the London Borough of Newham.
The Woolwich Ferry, offering a free crossing, began operating as early as 1308.
Civic history
Woolwich Town Hall stands as a historic and architectural landmark, with commemorations of prominent citizens from the borough.
Administrative history
Woolwich was historically unique in that it straddled both Kent and Essex, with territory on both sides of the Thames.