Knaphill Memories

Knaphill Memories

A regular feature of the KRA Newsletter is called 'Memory Lane'. Each Issue has a short article based on conversations with local residents who remember Knaphill in times gone by.

Below are brief descriptions of the content of each article and links to read each article in full. These are the complete versions, with more photographs and content, as we would like to have published them, but could notdue to lack of space.

Memory Lane 1- Knaphill in the early 1900's (Nov.2006)
Local residents remember rural and village life in Knaphill during the early 20th Century. To read in full, click here.

Memory Lane 2 - Knaphill between the Wars 1918 - 1939 (Feb.2007)
Brick "fields", village shops (but no bank!!), street parties and community celebrations; residents share their memories of a quieter pace of life.

Memory Lane 3 - The Brookwood Hospital (May 2007)
Completed in 1867 'The Brookwood Lunatic Asylum' brought major changes to Knaphill. It remained until the 1990's - a major employer and at the centre of the life of the village. Residents look back over the impact of the hospital on their lives; as workers and youngsters growing up in Knaphill during its heyday.

Memory Lane 4 - The Second World War, the Men & the Boys (Aug.07)
Many of Knaphill's older residentshave vivid memories of the war years. Some lived in Knaphill at that time, others have moved here more recently; but all have clear and fascinating memories of those years that shaped their lives.

Memory Lane 5 - The Second World War, Women at War (Nov.2007)
Fascinating recollections from women who lived through the War years 1939 - 45: rationing, the Blitz, joining the Women's Forces or doing 'War work'.

Memory Lane 6 - Knaphill after the War (May 2008)
Knaphill in the 1940's and early 50's was still the era of rationing and austerity, but locals who lived in Knaphill then have happy memories of growing up in a  lively village, full of local specialist shops.