Regarding Brunel's connections with the local Area + Cranford High Street..I posted the following message on the Chiswick Forum a year ago.It appeared on the famous CHISWICK MEMORIES thread and mentioned that Lois has drawn our attention to the delightful area in Cranford where Brunel was housed. ""Isambard Brunel was actually supposed to have lived at No 42 High Street at Stanfield House which was built in the early 1800's. (There is a photo of it in Andrea Cameron's book called "Hounslow" and she mentions Brunel..and the House is still there today.. with extensions built either side.)Looking at an A-Z street map, you will see that to the right side of the house is a new developement of houses (built in the back garden?) called Brunel Close.To the left of Stansfield House is a delightful residence called Stable Cottage (No 40 High Street). I stopped there on Monday..as I was in the area..and spoke to some craftsmen who were working there for English Heritage. They were rebuiding the front wall..using the existing "old London looking" bricks and using a traditional hydraulic lime, sand and sharp sand mix...together with brushes to give the finishing touch to the wall. It really is worth a view and the stables and garden are a gem..so tastefully decorated.The workmen confirmed that Brunel lived at No 42 and not at No 38 The Cedars which you had mentioned.The Cedars House School is situated out of view from the road.Yes Cranford is worth exploring.In his younger years Isambard Brunel lived in Chelsea. he was born in 1806 and died 1859. I believe his grave is at Kensal Green.Locally he was also responsible for the Railway Viaduct..the Wharncliffe at Hanwell.he also was responsible for the Three Bridges (up Windmill Lane from Gillette Corner). That's a roadway over a Canal..and the Canal goes over the railway line.He was also responsible for the old railway line from Southall to Brentford Docks...going over that old railway bridge that used to cross the Great West Road..where PC World is now.Just up the road at the Iron Bridge (near Ealing Hospital) you can see just one remaining metal pillar, built by Brunel, partly holding up the railway bridge on the north-side..next to a McDonalds on the Uxbridge Road.So Lois, Cranford is not my regular haunt..but thank you for drawing our attention to another piece of local history. It's worth going there ..with camera..especially to take a photo of Stable Cottage""Whilst all the attention seems to have been directed at Brunel..we must spare a thought for the hard working labouring souls who probably worked their socks off..in all weathers....and without a nice house in Cranford!
Jim Lawes ● 7202d