The contrasting suburbs of West, Upper, and South Norwood grew up during
the 19th century, on the range of hills once covered by the Great North
Wood. West Norwood was intended to be smart and exclusive, but that
ambition was achieved instead by Upper Norwood, which enjoyed the
highest ground, the freshest air, and the best views. South Norwood,
which developed after the arrival of the railway in 1839, was more
industrial and commercial than its older sisters. All three were at
their peak of prosperity late in the 19th century. The 200 photographs
presented here for the first time, each with a detailed caption, show
the district in the early 20th century. A selection of contemporary maps
helps to set the scene and the book features a detailed index.