Did you know that...
Becontree RM9 is part of the historical Becontree hundred. The name derives from the proper name Beohha and from the expression “tree that belonged to Beohha”. The tree supposedly represented the eastern border of the area in 1086, the time when Becontree RM9 was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Becontree housing estate is the world’s largest public estate. The construction started in 1921 and finalized in 1935. More than 100,000 people in 26,000 houses were living here at that time. The homes were built mainly for the veterans of World War I. Becontree residents used to pick pears and cabbages from the abandoned market gardens. May&Baker and Ford Dagenham were the first companies established in this East London area.
Several Chittys Lane houses bear a plaque. These were some of the first houses built in this RM9 area. Becontree estate railway was built to accommodate the development of the estate. The railway delivered an estimated four million tons of materials. In 1933, the railway was dismantled as the building of the estate was nearing its finish. The local tube station was built in 1926 and it was originally called Gale Street Halt. It was renamed Becontree in 1932.
The first female pipe band in the world, Dagenham Girl Pipers was founded in 1930 in this area. The band is still active. The current leader, Sheila Hatcher, has been a member since 1958. Writer Douglas Adams and comedian Eric Morecambe make references to this pipe band in their works. The area is also known for its brass bands. Several local bands joined and formed Becontree Brass Band in 1981. Some of the most notable people who lived here include comedian Dudley Moore and football players Alf Ramsey and Terry Venables. Ramsey was the manager of the national English team. His most notable achievements as a manager include winning the 1966 FIFA World Cup. George Carey, one of the Canterbury Archbishops, is another resident.
