Portslade
A captivating history that stretches back through millennia, from ancient origins to modern identity
A Journey Through Time in Portslade
Portslade, a place now nestled within the vibrant city of Brighton and Hove, possesses a captivating history that stretches back through millennia. From its ancient origins to its modern identity, Portslade offers a rich tapestry of human endeavor and transformation, inviting exploration into its fascinating past.
This historical overview will guide you through the key phases of Portslade's development, revealing the stories etched into its landscape and the legacies left by those who called it home. Discover the unique blend of rural heritage and industrial evolution that defines Portslade, a place where echoes of the past resonate in its present-day charm.
Echoes of the Ancients: Portslade's Prehistoric and Roman Past
Stone Age Beginnings
The story of Portslade begins long before recorded history, with evidence suggesting human presence in the area as far back as the Stone Age. Archaeological findings have unearthed remains of Stone Age inhabitants, alongside bones and teeth of even earlier creatures like the Mammoth and Woolly Rhinoceros, painting a picture of a land shaped by both early humans and Ice Age fauna. Further discoveries of Stone Age flint tools in the Vale Road area provide additional tangible proof of this ancient habitation.
Roman Influence
Portslade has been proposed as the site of the Roman port of Novus Portus, mentioned in the 2nd-century AD by the geographer Ptolemy. This hypothesis is supported by the alignment of Drove Road in Portslade Village, which has been linked to a Roman road potentially connecting London to the coast at this point. Similarly, the Old Shoreham Road is thought to follow the course of a Roman road leading from Chichester (Noviomagus Reginorum) to Portslade.
Archaeological Evidence
Archaeological excavations along Roman Road have revealed Roman remains and even a Roman burial site, adding weight to the notion of a significant Roman presence. Beyond the immediate village, evidence of Romano-British settlements has been found on the summits of Tenant Hill and Sweet Brow, indicating agricultural activity and a wider Roman influence in the surrounding area. The discovery of a Romano-British building near Easthill House further suggests a degree of Romanized life in the vicinity.
Anglo-Saxon Period
Following the Roman period, evidence indicates continued habitation by Anglo-Saxon settlers. This suggests a continuity of community and adaptation to changing times in the landscape of Portslade. The repeated indications of settlement from prehistoric times through the Roman and Anglo-Saxon eras demonstrate a long-standing pattern of human attraction to this specific location, likely due to a combination of coastal access, fertile land, and strategic positioning along ancient pathways.
The Norman Conquest and the Birth of a Village
Domesday Book
The first concrete documentary evidence of Portslade's existence appears in the Domesday Book of 1086, commissioned by William the Conqueror. In this comprehensive survey of England's resources, Portslade is recorded under various names, including 'Porteslamhe' and 'Porteslage'. The entry notes the presence of two households in Portslade at the time, indicating a relatively small settlement compared to some of its neighbors.
Norman Landholdings
The Domesday Book reveals that Portslade was held under the tenancy of William of Warenne, a prominent Norman nobleman who played a significant role in the new feudal order. Further details within the Domesday survey name Oswald and Albert as specific landholders in Portslade, each holding half a hide of land. The overall annual value of Portslade to its lord in 1086 was recorded as six shillings.
St Nicolas' Church
During the Norman period, St Nicolas' Church was founded around 1170, becoming the spiritual center of the community. The original church consisted of a nave and south aisle, dating from the late 12th century. The church's establishment signifies the growing importance of the settlement and the establishment of formal religious worship in Portslade.
Portslade Old Manor
Portslade Old Manor was built to the immediate north of the church, standing as a particularly significant example of Norman architecture. It is one of the few Norman manor houses still existing in England. The earliest parts of the Manor House are dated to between 1140 and 1150, constructed of flint rubble with Caen stone quoins. The simultaneous construction of the church and the manor house signifies the establishment of a typical Norman feudal village structure.
The Medieval Tapestry: Growth, Governance, and Notable Figures
Village Development
Throughout the medieval period, Portslade gradually developed as a village centered around the prominent St Nicolas' Church and the adjacent Manor House. This era likely witnessed a slow but steady increase in the local population and the emergence of essential services and trades to support the inhabitants of the manor and the church community.
The Royal Charter
A significant event that shaped Portslade's medieval history was the granting of a charter in 1312 by King Edward II to John de Warenne, the Lord of the Manor at the time. This charter bestowed the right to hold an annual Fair at Portslade on the 6th of December, coinciding with the Feast Day of Saint Nicolas. The establishment of this fair was a crucial development, elevating Portslade's economic and social standing within the region.
Hubert de Burgh
The 13th century saw Portslade associated with a figure of considerable national importance: Hubert de Burgh. In 1226, de Burgh held the Manor of Portslade while also serving as the Justiciar of England, a position equivalent to a modern-day Prime Minister. His tenure as Lord of the Manor connects Portslade to significant events in English history during the reigns of King John and King Henry III. De Burgh played a key role in the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 and commanded the English fleet to victory over the French at the Battle of Sandwich in 1217.
Environmental Challenges
Despite its growing importance, medieval Portslade also faced environmental challenges. Records indicate a significant loss of land, approximately 60 acres, between 1291 and 1340 due to the combined effects of river and coastal erosion. This highlights the vulnerability of early settlements to natural forces and demonstrates that the geography of Portslade has been subject to change, impacting its size and resources over time.
The 16th Century: Village Life and the Rise of Prominent Families
Village Growth
The 16th century marked a period of further development and consolidation for Portslade Village. During this time, Old Portslade Village was notably "built-up", suggesting an increase in population and the establishment of a more defined community. This development reflects the broader economic and social changes occurring across Tudor England.
Kemps House
A significant surviving structure from this era is Kemps, located at the eastern end of the High Street. Built in 1540 by the Blaker family, Kemps stands as the oldest habitable house in Portslade today. This building offers a tangible link to the 16th century, providing architectural evidence of the village's development and the presence of influential local families. Its continued habitation underscores the long-standing connection of certain families to this area.
The Blaker Family
The Blaker family played a particularly prominent role in Portslade's history. Described as a wealthy and influential Sussex family, their association with the village dates back to at least 1485. Over their 400-year connection to the Parish, members of the Blaker family held numerous prominent positions in public life. Later, in the 19th century, Harry Blaker became a surgeon in Brighton and even attended Queen Victoria, vaccinating the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) and Princess Victoria.
Daily Life
Life in 16th-century Portslade was characterized by the fishing trade, which employed many local men. However, this industry faced challenges due to coastal erosion and fierce competition from other coastal towns. Records even suggest that some sailors resorted to piracy during particularly hard times. The century also brought broader changes to rural life in England, with manorial lords enclosing village lands that had previously been open to all. By 1576, the village had employed its first police constable, indicating a growing need for law enforcement as the community expanded.
The Winds of Change: Portslade in the 19th Century
Railway Arrival
The 19th century brought profound transformations to Portslade, most notably with the arrival of the railway from Brighton in 1840. This infrastructure development acted as a major catalyst, encouraging rapid growth and development, particularly in the coastal area. The railway facilitated the development of what was previously known as Copperas Gap into the distinct settlement of Portslade-by-Sea.
Industrial Development
The 19th century witnessed the establishment and expansion of key industries in Portslade. Around 1850, John Dudney established a brewery in the village. Following the repeal of the Malt Tax in 1880, Dudney built an expansive new purpose-built brewery at the corner of Drove Road and South Street, significantly changing the character of the village with its striking classical building. Another significant industrial development was the construction of the gasworks in 1874, which supplied power to Portslade and neighboring areas.
Population Growth
These industries provided employment opportunities and contributed to a dramatic increase in Portslade's population, which grew from 358 in 1801 to over 4000 by 1891. The development of seaside entertainment along the coast also created a greater demand for food and housing, further incentivizing market gardening and brickworks in the area.
Social Contrasts
The 19th century also brought significant social changes and diverse living conditions to Portslade. The village became an increasingly desirable place to live, attracting wealthy landowners who built large detached villas with walled gardens. Examples included Portslade Lodge (1785, now Manor Lodge) and Portslade House (1790, now demolished). However, alongside these grand residences existed smaller terraces and cottages, such as Robin's Row (built c. 1740), where census returns reveal cramped and overcrowded living conditions for laborers working on nearby farms or in the brickfields.
The 20th Century and Beyond: Consolidation, Conflict, and Modern Identity
Administrative Changes
The 20th century brought further significant changes to Portslade's administrative structure. In 1928, the northern parish of Portslade was abolished and added to the parish and urban district of Portslade-by-Sea. In 1974, the urban district of Portslade-by-Sea was absorbed into the borough of Hove. Subsequently, in 1997, Hove merged with neighboring Brighton to form the unitary authority of Brighton and Hove, which was granted city status in 2000. Today, Brighton and Hove City Council is the sole local authority covering Portslade.
World Wars
Portslade experienced the impact of both World Wars during the 20th century. During World War I (1914-1918), the army occupied various sites in Portslade. The Portslade War Memorial in Easthill Park commemorates 243 individuals from the area who lost their lives in the First World War. World War II (1939-1945) also significantly affected Portslade. The Portslade Gas Works was frequently targeted by enemy bombing raids. Local schools were disrupted by evacuations, and the community adapted to wartime conditions.
Industrial Transformation
The 20th century also witnessed the decline and transformation of some of Portslade's key industries. Brewing ceased in Portslade village in 1930. The brewery site was later occupied by Shepherd's Industries, manufacturing shirts, and then by the engineering company Le Carbone in 1947, which remained there until 2015 before the site was redeveloped for housing. This shift reflects broader economic changes and the repurposing of industrial land for new uses.
Landmarks that Whisper Tales: Exploring Portslade's Historical Sites
Portslade Old Manor
Located north of St Nicolas Church, it stands as a rare example of a Norman manor house, dating back to 1140-1150. It is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Grade II* listed building, recognizing its national importance. The Manor served various purposes over the centuries, including as an almshouse. Today, the ruins are cared for by Emmaus Brighton & Hove.
St Nicolas Church
An Anglican church with 12th-century origins, it is one of the oldest churches in Brighton & Hove and holds the distinction of being the only church in the city consistently used for worship throughout its 850-year history. The church features Norman architecture in its oldest sections, with later additions from the 13th and 14th centuries, including the tower.
Foredown Tower
Built in 1909, it is a former Edwardian water tower that supplied water to the Foredown Isolation Hospital. The hospital was later renamed Hove Borough Sanatorium and demolished in 1972. Today, Foredown Tower serves as a Countryside Centre and houses one of only two working camera obscuras in the south of England, offering unique views of the surrounding landscape.
Easthill House & Park
Constructed in 1848 by the Blaker family, and its surrounding grounds now form Easthill Park. The house was later owned by John Dudney before being purchased by Portslade District Council in 1947 and opened as a public park in 1948. The park features a walled garden, wildflower area, children's playground, and the Portslade War Memorial.
Former Southdown Brewery
Now occupied by Mersen UK Portslade Ltd., it is a prominent industrial landmark in the Old Village. Established in the mid-19th century by John Dudney and later owned by the Mews Brothers, this 'italianate' style brewery played a significant role in Portslade's economic and social development.
Kemps
The oldest habitable house in Portslade, dating back to 1540. Built by the Blaker family, it provides a tangible link to Tudor Portslade and the influence of prominent local families. Its survival through nearly five centuries offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Voices from the Past: Notable Individuals of Portslade
Hubert de Burgh
The 13th-century Lord of the Manor and Justiciar of England, who left an indelible mark on both local and national history. He played a key role in the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 and commanded the English fleet to victory over the French at the Battle of Sandwich in 1217. His granddaughter later married Robert the Bruce, becoming Queen of Scotland.
The Blaker Family
A wealthy and influential Sussex family with a 400-year connection to Portslade, dating back to at least 1485. Members of the family held numerous positions of public significance. Harry Blaker, a 19th-century descendant, became a surgeon in Brighton and attended Queen Victoria, vaccinating the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) and Princess Victoria.
Bishop Walter Baddeley
Born in Portslade in 1894, he had a distinguished career, serving in the First World War and being awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Military Cross (MC). He later became the Bishop of Melanesia and then the Bishop of Blackburn, demonstrating a remarkable journey from Portslade to international prominence.
The Mews Brothers
Walter and Herbert Mews, who owned and expanded the Southdown Brewery in the late 19th century, were significant figures contributing to the local economy. They were responsible for constructing prominent houses like Whychcote and Loxdale, and likely built workers' housing in the area as well.
Hannah Brackenbury
Demonstrated a strong commitment to social welfare by funding the building of the Brakenbury School (later St Nicolas School) in 1872, providing education for the poor of Portslade and Hangleton. Her philanthropy made a lasting impact on education in the area.
John Dudney
Played a crucial role in Portslade's industrial development by establishing the Southdown Brewery in the mid-19th century. By 1882, his brewery was producing 1000 barrels of Southdown Ale per week, significantly contributing to the local economy and changing the character of the village.
What's in a Name? Exploring the Etymology of Portslade
The very name "Portslade" holds clues to the area's history and geography. The second element, "Slade," is generally accepted to derive from the Old English word "slæd," which translates to "shallow valley" or "low marshy ground". This likely refers to the topographical setting of Portslade Village, nestled in a hollow of a north-south aligned valley.
The first element, "Port," is more open to interpretation. The most common theory suggests it refers to a harbour or a route leading to a port, with a possible Old English origin in "portus-" combined with "-ladda," meaning "way to the port". This interpretation aligns with Portslade's proximity to the coast and the historical presence of a small harbor or river that may have served as a port in earlier times.
Another suggestion posits that "Port" could have been derived from a personal name, although this theory has been largely rejected for similar place names. Locally, the understanding is often that "Port" refers to the natural harbor and "Slade" to the shallow valley.
It is crucial to note and dismiss the outdated and incorrect etymology that links Portslade to the Roman placename Portus Adurni (modern Portchester). This misidentification, popularized by Michael Drayton in the 17th century, has been refuted by more recent scholarship.
The likely etymology of Portslade, therefore, points to a long-standing connection between the place name and the area's geographical features, particularly its valley setting and its relationship to the sea or a harbor, reinforcing its historical significance as a coastal or near-coastal settlement.