Alice Billings House

In 1905, a grand building arose near Stratford’s Old Town Hall. This was Alice Billings House, a home for the brave firefighters of the West Ham Fire Brigade. Alice Billings House served the brigade until 1964, witnessing the evolution of firefighting from horse-drawn engines to motorized vehicles. The building, with its unique practice and hose drying tower, stands as a testament to the growing professionalism of fire brigades in the early 20th century. After its time as a fire station, Alice Billings House took on new roles. It became part of Newham Council’s Education Department and even a film set. Now, this Grade II-listed building, once a haven for firefighters, is being revitalized. The Creative Land Trust is transforming Alice Billings House into affordable studio spaces for artists. This project will not only preserve a piece of Stratford’s history but also nurture the city’s vibrant creative community. Imagine artists working within those historic walls, inspired by the building’s rich past. In 2024, a project called “Archive” will delve into the hidden stories of Alice Billings House and its namesake, Alice Billings. This project will bring to light the lesser-known tales of this historic building and the community it served. Today, Alice Billings House stands as a symbol of transformation, evolving from a place of service to a space for creative expression.