Did you know that...
Carshalton is part of the ancient Wallington hundred. Archaeological findings point out that this SM5 area was home to human settlements since the Neolithic and Iron Age. Five manors were here before the Norman Conquest. Around the year 1100, the area was known as Aultone as it is mentioned in the Domesday Book. Goisfrid de Mandeville was in charge of the area at that time. The name may come from three word cars, aul, and ton. Cars might derive from cross or cress as watercress was cultivated in the area. Aul comes from spring. Ton means farm. In the 17th century, Carshalton was known for walnuts and trouts.
Most of the members of the English rock band Mud were born in Carshalton. The founder and lead guitarist, Rob Davis, along with the lead vocal singer, Les Gray, and drummer Dave Mount were born here. Tim Smith is another musician that hails from this part of South West London. He is best known as the leader of the Cardiacs band. Athlete Harry Aikines-Aryeetey was born here and went to school in Sutton. He is a sprinter and the first to win gold medals at the World Youth Championships 100 meters and 200 meters races. Cricketer David Mitchell is another famous person that hails from here.
St Philomena’s Catholic High School for Girls was established in 1883. The school is in the former Carshalton House. This 18th-century manor was built by Edward Carleton. Physician John Radcliffe is one of the notable inhabitants. Since 2004, the school has Technology College status. The local railway station was opened in 1868. Carshalton Beeches station serves this area as well. The Institute of Refrigeration is based in the area. It was formed in 1899 and it was the world’s first national refrigeration association. Carshalton Fireworks is a charity fireworks event hosted in November in the park.
