The origins of Springbourne
From barren heathland to bustling resort
In 1800, Bournemouth was largely an uninhabited, barren heathland, primarily used by turf cutters and smugglers landing contraband. The significant transformation began in 1810 when retired army officer Lewis Tregonwell purchased 8.5 acres and built a summer residence. By the century's end, Bournemouth had boomed into a bustling Victorian resort, attracting visitors and residents alike.
The rise of Springbourne: A working-class enclave
The original workman's cottages, built in 1865, marked the genesis of Springbourne as Bournemouth's first dedicated working-class enclave. Bournemouth famously gained its first gas street lighting in 1864 and its first piped water supply in 1866. The workmen building these vital utilities needed local housing, leading to the establishment of these essential homes.
A community of skilled hands
From its beginning, Springbourne’s employed population consisted predominantly of working people. In 1871, over half worked at unskilled jobs: labouring, laundry, and domestic service. Many women found employment in the nearby steam laundry. About a third worked as artisans or in construction. These artisans included bakers, shoemakers, beer brewers, saddle makers, and dressmakers. Carpenters, painters, brick-makers, bricklayers, plumbers (and a few gas fitters), masons, and plasterers formed the backbone of the building sector, with carpenters and bricklayers being the most numerous. Almost half the artisans were involved in clothing, such as dressmakers and tailors, with many also making boots.
The Dolphin pub, now a Tesco Express.
The Cricketers pub in Springbourne is one of the oldest pubs in Bournemouth, built in 1847
A section of what Victoria Road might of looked like in the early 1900s (AI)
"The Workman's Cottages website beautifully captures the essence of Springbourne's past. A truly insightful and well-researched journey through history."
Dr. Eleanor Vance, Local Historian
Create Your Own Website With Webador