Andy Grant
Early 1900s tinted postcard, showing the great elm and stocks
- Credit: Andy Grant
A feature of the village green at Havering-atte-Bower, over a period of many centuries, was the ancient elm tree that stood next to the stocks and whipping post.
During the 17th century in many villages, local meetings were often held under a great elm tree on the village green.
An effect of early 19th century enclosure was the loss of the village green and it is known that Havering Green was more extensive than at present.
Although there was enclosure of common waste in Havering, it was fortuitous that this part of the village green was not victim to it. During its long lifetime, the great elm that stood on the south-east corner of the village green had been struck by lightning on numerous occasions.