In early 2025 Chris Tew posted a letter to residents of Hendrick Avenue, London SW12, inviting them to commission a brief history of their homes. He made no charge for this service, instead requesting a donation to Prisoners Abroad, a charity which he has supported for 40 years and where he served as a trustee.
Eight residents took up the offer, including the family at 30 Morella Road, which adjoins Hendrick Avenue. He is most grateful for the interest shown and for the generous donations made to Prisoners Abroad.
Each report contained an introductory section about the changing nature of the road, first as Estcourt Road up until 1913, and then as Hendrick Avenue. This was followed by an account of some of the people who have lived in the house, beginning with the 1891 census.
Many people of note have lived in Hendrick Avenue including:
Sir Edward Fithian (1845-1936) as Secretary of the Commons Preservation Society he did much to save and restore commons in south London which were widely used for depositing rubbish.
Basil Rathbone MC (1892-1967) a noted Shakespearean actor who went on to play Sherlock Holmes in films.
Walter de la Mare (1873-1956) the poet, short story writer and novelist.
Stephen Potter (1900-1969 a writer best known for his parodies of self-help books.
The reports are now available online. Click on the links below to read about the lives of earlier residents. These include young men who fought in WW1, two of whom were awarded the Military Cross for exemplary gallantry in active operations against the enemy.
If you would like him to research past residents of your home, please email tew@testdata.co.uk.
Find out about the history of Hendrick Avenue.
Find out about the residents of various houses.