NEW Lindfield history book

Life in Lindfield history book

Following more than seven years working in partnership with Lindfield History Project Group, Lindfield Life has published a series of articles which depict the previous eras of Lindfield. 

With the support of keen local historian Richard Bryant, the idea was to bring together all the previously published articles from the magazine, into one place. The book – Life in Lindfield – was launched at Lindfield Village Day on Saturday 1st June 2024, with profits from the limited first print run going to registered charity King Edward Hall. 

However, after selling out, a second edition is now in print…

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The second edition of Life in Lindfield is now available to buy online, direct from Lindfield Life only.

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Editor David Tingley explained: “It has been a real privilege to work with Lindfield History Project Group, and in particular with Richard, over the years. His gathered knowledge means that he is my go-to person for any question relating to this village’s rich history! 

“I am delighted the group has agreed to let these articles be re-published, as I know when we publish content of this nature – many readers are ready to consume it. Having them all in one place, will be a fantastic and new resource for those history-hungry Lindfield enthusiasts!”

The 130-page book will include over 60 articles from Lindfield Life, some of which have been updated since original publication.

Mid Sussex Steam Laundry opened in Lindfield 1902

Mid Sussex Laundry, opened in Lindfield in 1902 and closed in 1972

By Richard Bryant, Lindfield History Project Group

Throughout her long life the Dowager Countess of Tankerville was engaged in charitable works. Born Lady Olivia Montagu, daughter of the 6th Duke of Manchester, she married the 6th Earl of Tankerville in 1850.

One charitable venture was the establishment of laundries to provide work and a home for women in difficult circumstances, including unmarried mothers. She opened a number of laundries across the country.

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The Countess of Tankerville, while living at The Welkin, Lindfield, built such a laundry on land adjoining Gravelye Lane. The laundry opened in 1902 and was run on charitable lines by a local committee. It was taken over by the Salvation Army in 1912. Their aim remained to provide help to women struggling to regain their character by means of honest labour. The laundry home called ‘Quinta’ provided accommodation for thirty female workers.

The Salvation Army ended its connection with the laundry in 1922. It became a business and continued trading as the Mid Sussex Steam Laundry.

After WWII the business was taken over by Mr J Carter, a Quaker, who ran it until closure in 1972. After closure the buildings were demolished and the land used for the Grey Alders and Kidbrook housing development.

[Excerpt from article first published in Lindfield Life magazine July 2014]