Posts
The Posts page is the gathering place of North Ockendon’s Hidden Gem — a curated space where research, recollection, and local insight come together to illuminate the story of our parish. Each submission, whether modest or substantial, helps reveal another facet of North Ockendon’s character and strengthens the shared record we are building for the community and for future generations.
We invite contributions that reflect the values of Hidden Gem: clarity, care, and respect for the heritage of this remarkable village. Submissions may include:
- archival discoveries or historical research
- photographs capturing the parish’s landscape, architecture, or daily life
- accounts of families, farms, and long‑standing local traditions
- studies of manorial, agricultural, or ecclesiastical history
- thoughtful reflections on the church and its role in community life
Every post adds depth to the collective understanding of North Ockendon. By sharing your work, you help ensure that the parish’s history is preserved with accuracy, dignity, and a sense of quiet pride.
We welcome your submissions and look forward to showcasing the contributions that make North Ockendon a true hidden gem.
- Football at St Mary’s
“I used to change for football in there…”
I met a nice gentleman, a Havering employee, who was pleased to be able to confirm to me that he had changed to play football in St Mary’s School as a lad.
If you had similar engagement with the school, however small, it will be good to hear from you. Your nugget of information will contribute to the picture of what everyday life at the school was like.
Please contact us:
- Hidden Stories of St Mary’s C of E School Graffiti
There’s some graffiti on the outside wall of the old St Mary’s C of E school, and Jo seems to be quite the favourite. If you know or knew “Jo,” “Jay,” or anyone else whose initials are on the wall, please get in touch with us.
It would be really good to know what happened at “playtime”.
David L.
Click on a photo to enlarge it.
Doris Ivy Green – circa 1926
Say “Hi” to Doris Green,, who was 10 when this photo was taken as she stood on the step outside the entrance to the village school.
We are grateful to Doris’ daughter, who shared this photo with us at our “Hidden Gem” meeting on August 22 2026. Near former village neighbours also met for the first time!
If you have any photos from when the school was open, or of the village or village events from days past, we would love to add them to our collection.