Join us for a series of free talks, walks and workshops as we celebrate Morden Heritage Week from March 25. 

There will be two walks (March 25 and 28) which well be guided tours of, respectively, Merton Park ward and central Morden. 

The first will give walkers an insight into everything from local pubs and the history of the Civic Centre, to Morden Baptists, the history of Mostyn Gardens including its World War II uses, transport history, the Arts & Crafts movement, unusual architecture and local schools. 

The second will cover aspects of local history from leading families, farming history and the formation of Merton Park, to the creation of the Underground, Kendor Gardens, wartime history and the growth of the high street in Morden. 

There will also be a photography workshop (March 27), where participants will be given a friendly and informal introduction/tips on how to choose, set up and take decent photographs. People will then walk around the town centre and possibly some of the nearby green spaces, so they can practice – with photographers on hand to offer advice. 

Another workshop will give you advice on how to trace your Morden ancestors (March 30). Professional genealogist, Steph Hagan, will be offering an introduction to family history – offering tips on where to start, source materials, websites and documents accessible in the Local Studies Centre. 

There will also be a talk on March 29 in the Council Chamber at the Civic Centre titled There’s More To Morden, highlighting aspects of Morden heritage – from the area’s agricultural heritage, to Joseph Bazalgette and the Great Stink, the history of St Helier Estate, famous local residents, the Napoleonic/Zulu and First World Wars, plus cinema, UFOs and much more… 

And rounding everything up, there will be a coffee morning at the Merton and Morden Guild on March 31 when you can reminisce about your memories of Morden. People can view examples of materials from the Heritage collection and will have the chance to share their memories of Morden. We are also hoping to film parts of this for posterity to add to the Heritage collection. 

Find out more about the borough at Merton Heritage and Local Studies Centre.