Once a marsh, now a park. Figges Marsh has a story that stretches back centuries.
Figges Marsh is a public park in the London Borough of Merton. It covers 25 acres. Today, we explore its past.
Let’s journey back to 1357. William Figge occupied this land. That’s how Figges Marsh got its name. Though old maps sometimes called it Piggs Marsh or Pigs Marsh Common.
Fast forward to 1745. The road next to Figges Marsh became a turnpike. This is now London Road. The toll road brought more traffic and changes to the area.
In 2012, a special sign was put up at the southern end of Figges Marsh. It recognized the park as a Fields in Trust Queen Elizabeth II Field. This marked Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics. The park received a plaque and an oak sapling.
During the medieval period, the Biggin Farm estate bordered the eastern side of Figges Marsh. Industry arrived around 1800. Pascall’s confectionery factory was built in 1888. It used locally grown peppermint oil. The factory bought land from James Bridger’s Manor Farm.
In 1900, Swain’s and Tamworth farm were near Figges Marsh. Market gardening was common. Later, Victorian and Edwardian houses were built.
Figges Marsh has seen many changes. It was once part of Mitcham Commonland. In 1891, the Mitcham Conservators managed it. Then, in 1923, the Mitcham UDC took over.
During World War II, Figges Marsh was dug for allotments. This helped grow food during the war. A 1950s photo shows an open area with a path and trees along London Road.
Today, Figges Marsh is popular for sports. You can see cricket and football being played.
Figges Marsh is also linked to some interesting tales. Daniel Defoe may have lived nearby in 1688. He was a Presbyterian minister in Tooting. There were also stories of Spring Heeled Jack sightings in the 1870s. Locals even tried to catch him.
So, as you wander through Figges Marsh, remember its rich history. From William Figge to modern-day sports. Figges Marsh continues to be a valuable space for the community.