The History of the Watermeads
Historically, the Watermeads, or "water meadows" were of great significance to the local population. During the Middle Ages, the area belonged to the powerful De La Mare family and was carefully managed to ensure the provision of winter fodder and summer pasture for cattle. In winter the land was allowed to flood and the rich Wandle silt increased the fertility of the soil. In spring, when the waters receded, the resulting grass crop was cut for hay. Cattle were then free to graze, or the sluices were opened and the land was flooded again to encourage a second batch of fodder.
Situated on the Morden side of the Wandle, an extremely productive milling river, the Watermeads became the site of a snuff mill and a paper mill built by mill owner Richard Glover in about 1800. The mills had fallen into disuse some time before the Trust purchased the land.
Acquisition by the National Trust
This area was one of the first sites acquired by the National Trust. In 1913, an active campaign of fundraising, led by National Trust founder, Octavia Hill, raised £1,050 to purchase the property from Sir Frederick Fowkes. Ms. Hill had been greatly inspired by the sight of families and young children enjoying their visits to this riverside location. Sadly she died the year before it was finally signed over to the National Trust. A stone seat overlooking the mill-cut commemorates her sister, Miranda, a local teacher who also contributed to the improvement of living conditions for the poor.