The building dates from 1855 and, although a National School, it was closely associated with St Catherine’s church, at the end of the village, perched on the small knoll commanding and overlooking the marsh and river with its associated important ferry crossing to Kent.
The school building reflected its religious connections, note the gothic end window and spire.
The walls have much flint stone in them derived from the local gravels and chalk land in Thurrock. The shape of the building looks as if several additions have been made during its life, including the Schoolmaster’s house.
The school log book records the life of the school, including the breaking of several windows when the royal garrison artillery test fired the guns in the coastal defence battery close by.
The community was focused on the local farming scene and many pupils are recorded absent, potato or pea picking.
Close by was The Ship pub, built on the road front and now set back from the road by its 1950s replacement, but unlike the school still survives and still serves the local community!
John Ormston of Grays wrote to me about the East Street/London Road, Grays shop: “During the 1940s-50s the shop was owned by Mr & Mrs Chase as a general provision merchants.
"They took over the Post Office from North’s who had the shop and garage at the other end of the terrace and it was transferred there. The large room above the shop was used as a temporary school room during 1939-40 whilst air raid shelters were built at Stifford Primary School.
"We attended lessons there about two half days per week!”
Further information on Mucking Church School comes in from Kenneth J Lazell of Stanford-le- Hope: “My family on my father’s side were born in Golden Lane Cottage at Mucking and in their turn were educated at the school. My aunt was a pupil/ teacher and a cousin, Mrs Gertrude Bearman, was a pupil.
"I have for a number of years been associated with the church as a choir member and warden until the church was made redundant."
No comments:
Post a Comment