Walthamstow: A Historic Overview

The name Walthamstow derives from the Anglo-Saxon Wilcumestouue, meaning the welcome place. Once noted for fine views, woodlands and wealthy estates, Walthamstow changed dramatically with the coming of the railways. With the opening of the Lea Bridge station in 1840, the borough developed into an important centre for commercial industry and a vital link for London's transport system.

Most people today would associate Walthamstow with William Morris, the High Street, the pop band East 17, and its famous greyhound stadium, known as the Stow. Less well known is the town's rich transport heritage, being the home of Britain's first motor car and the home of London's buses. Author Lindsay Collier hopes to awaken memories for longstanding residents, and to inspire newcomers to learn more about this historic town.