Millwall

Marshwall, named from the wall which was built to prevent Stepney Marsh/Isle of Dogs from flooding, had its name changed to Millwall in the late 1700's when windmills were built to pump out flood water. No doubt the Dutch emigrants had passed on their knowledge about the draining of such land.

Several new companies were carrying out business by 1811 at Millwall. An iron works, a rope works and a chain and cable works.

The following year West ferry Road was built and by the 1830's the area was well populated by people who built and serviced ships, and their families.

The conditions in the area could not have been pleasant for it was still a damp, wind-swept place with few comforts and facilities, being mostly open pasture land. Later it was said to be a healthy place to live, with cold fresh winds and the drains regularly cleared by the tides. Gradually as the decades passed various amenities were available. The population was mixed and came from all over the country in search of work and a better life.

The Millwall Docks opened in 1868. 204 acres had been purchased with 52 allotted to the dock and 152 to warehousing and wharves. Only 35 acres was used for the docks at the start, the rest being left for development when trade demanded expansion.

By the 1930's the Millwall Docks were being used for grain.

Timber ships at Millwall Dock