Woodside Avenue (1903)
Woodside Avenue is named for the hamlet of Woodside, between Addiscombe and South Norwood. It was first mentioned in 1332. The name 'Woodside' is believed to refer to its proximity to the Great North Wood, an extensive forest that once covered the region and lends its name to the various 'Norwoods' in the area.
In the past, Woodside was primarily agricultural land. However, the heavy clay soil made farming a challenging endeavour. Though difficult for farming, the clay proved suitable for brick-making, and by the 1850s, a brick-making industry had emerged in the area.
The chimneys of Handley's brickworks were a prominent feature of the landscape, and their hooter, which signalled the start and end of the rest period, could be heard widely. Handley's was later sold to Hall & Co, which was subsequently acquired by Ready Mixed Concrete. The brick factories eventually closed in 1974.
