This is one of the most remarkable photographs in my collection. It might have been taken in the heart of the country. In fact, Mr W. Cornish, the photographer described it as “lane scene near Brighton”. After some research I realised that the pond was that which adjoined the main London Road at Withdean, about 70 yards south of Withdean Drove (now Peacock Lane). When considered with the photographs on the following page, showing the barns and the significant bend in the road it is established that the pond faced the existing Tongdean Lane and is on the spot where the fountain stood from 1897 until the 1920s (see views on nearby pages). The year 1897 may be when the wall was built to screen the pond from the road as traffic increased, but this is mere speculation. Through the trees there is a glimpse of the wall at the rear of the farmhouse. Period of photograph – 1860s.
Image Reference: JG_34_114.tif
Date: 1860s
Image Details: Copy
Size of Original: 115x116
Place: Brighton
Additional Information: This is a copy of the following stereoscopic view.
The digitisation of this Volume was sponsored by The Preston and Old Patcham Society
This image is copyright and is made available for personal study only. Commercial reproduction in any media is prohibited without written authorisation.
High resolution images for commercial use are available. Please contact The Regency Society