“Hidden behind weathered shop fronts for decades”, Malplaquet House waited to be rediscovered. Today we will uncover the secrets of this amazing Georgian mansion. Malplaquet House stands as a testament to London’s rich history. This Grade II listed townhouse located at 137-139 Mile End Road has a story etched in its walls.
Built in 1742, Malplaquet House was one of three houses constructed by Thomas Andrews. Sadly, only two of these original houses remain today. A wealthy Jewish widow first occupied Malplaquet House. Later, Harry Charrington, a brewer from Charrington Brewery resided here from 1794 to 1833. Charrington significantly altered the house to suit his needs. After his time, the house was subdivided and shops were constructed on what was once the front garden.
Malplaquet House gets its name from the Battle of Malplaquet. This major battle occurred during the War of the Spanish Succession in 1709. It is unclear whether the name came from the home’s first occupant. She was the widow of a London merchant who sold war salvage. It might also be from a later resident, the military surgeon Edward Lee.
Throughout the 19th century, Malplaquet House housed various small businesses. These included a bookmaker and a printer. In 1910, the Union of Stepney Ratepayers occupied the house. They remained there until 1975. During their tenure, Malplaquet House was further subdivided. Additions were also made to the structure of the house. The London Blitz damaged Malplaquet House. Repairs started in 1951, funded in part by a donation from the War Damage Association.
Before its degradation in the 1990s, the adjacent property was occupied by A. Leaver Ltd. This company made packing cases for the government. The owner of A. Leaver Ltd advocated for the buildings’ protection. This led to the Spitalfields Trust’s intervention. The trust helped save Malplaquet House from potential demolition.
In 1998, Tim Knox and Todd Longstaffe-Gowan purchased Malplaquet House. At that time, it had not served as a personal residence for over a century. Knox and Longstaffe-Gowan filled Malplaquet House with their collections of art and esoteric objects. They obtained these items from various sources, including Portobello Market and flea markets.
The restoration was painstaking. The new owners followed historic documents and photographs. They transformed the home into an astounding cabinet of curiosities. The narrow front entry hall transports visitors to a mini museum. Fine sculptures and historic portraits adorn this space.
The garden is lush. Ivies, roses and creepers thrive there. Several palm trees also add to the garden’s charm. The wrought-iron gate features grand stone eagles.
Malplaquet House stands in the Stepney Green conservation area. This area is the oldest part of East London. Stepney Green and Whitechapel offer a vibrant mix of amenities. Many historic buildings have been sensitively restored. This creates a unique blend of late 19th-century architecture.
Malplaquet House is more than just a building. It is a living testament to London’s past. Its walls hold stories of merchants, brewers, and everyday citizens. It is a reminder of the city’s resilience and its ability to blend history with modern life. As you pass by, take a moment to appreciate the layers of history. Consider the lives lived within those walls. Malplaquet House continues to stand, a silent witness to the ever-changing landscape of London.