I'm doing some work in Sydenham Road (opposite the Whitehorse) at the moment. Part of my job is to investigate the site for a proposed development, which entails interrogating historical maps.

Without breaching copyright, (because I've bought these maps) am happy to share clips.

EDIT :First map shows an 'Inn' on the site of the Whitehorse in 1880.
The Whitehorse is not actually identified specifically until 1954. The building has then changed significantly from the building that was there in 1880. This could possibly mean that the site was hit by bombing in WW2 and the Whitehorse rebuilt afterwards. A bit speculative, but i'd have to consult the bombing maps to confirm.

Edited by Forest Hillbilly (27 May 2012 8.11pm)

I disengage, I turn the page.

By 1896 it had become a Brickworks. Typically, this is where London Clay is dug up and fired, to make bricks.
These bricks would have been used in the surrounding area (croydon), for the construction of buildings/houses

This gives an indication that Selhurst Park may sit on clay, but also explains that the 'natural amphitheatre' of the current stadium was a result of anthropogenic activities, and not natural processes.

Edited by Forest Hillbilly (28 May 2012 4.47pm)

I disengage, I turn the page.

Quite amazing how area get built up. I always wondered what it would be like to time travel back to the 1800's or earlier to see what Croydon was like before urbanisation

For f*cks sake Murray!!

Follow me on twitter @money4nuffin and same on ps3 (without the @ of course!)

The mapping I have doesn't show central Croydon. However, it appears to be quite an urban place, even from 1880.

The last mapping i have is from 2006, showing the stadium as it is today

I disengage, I turn the page.

how do u know it is true dave were you there with the dinosaurs

i knew that was coming, errr no i wasn't!!!