Secret Pinner

Pinner today is a populous, and prosperous, part of Greater London. For most of its history, however, it was an agricultural backwater—a world lost, although traces remain. Improving communications, above all the arrival of railways in the 19th century, brought the area ever closer to the capital. For decades it was an idyllic country retreat for successful Londoners and although more urbanized today, vigorous efforts preserve the area’s appeal. Pinner’s past has many fascinating facets. In the Middle Ages it was part of the huge manor of Harrow, of which the former deer-park of the Archbishop of Canterbury survives. People worked in agriculture or activities such as the mining for chalk for mortar and fertilizer, but Secret Pinner also reveals the story of the poor and destitute, and efforts to relieve the problem through parish charities and the work-house, particularly for mothers and children. Crime and punishment in Pinner includes details of early trials when men were hanged for stealing animals, highway robberies, and surprising cases such as that of an Edwardian medium. As Pinner’s connection to London was improved by road and railway the town became transformed, with large houses, shopping areas, stations and residential estates. In the early 20th century Pinner women fought for the suffragette movement and famous people associated with the town include Mrs Beeton and names associated with the arts and humor, notably William Heath Robinson and Ronnie Barker. Secret Pinner explores the less well-known episodes and characters in the history of the town through the centuries. With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and tucked away historical buildings, it will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of this London suburb.