Since we launched the Heritage Column last year, we've been able to help many readers with their queries on Croydon's past.
And this week, we're looking to solve two more mysteries. We need the help of readers with long memories and an eye for detail to assist two of our readers.
Mrs G Grilly, from Limpsfield Road, Sanderstead, sent us in this lovely photograph and writes: "Please find enclosed a photograph which was found in our loft when we moved into our house nearly four years ago. We are unable to throw any light upon it apart from having purchased our property from a gentleman called Fred Bennett (deceased), who worked for Watts in Norbury and also served in the RAF.
"We believe Fred was in his 70s or 80s. On finding the photo I went looking in Croydon and the surrounding areas for the number 224. We wondered what the premises would be if they still exist, but were unable to find anywhere with such a deep footpath and an alley next to number 224.
"Maybe it has nothing to do with Croydon but it would be nice to find out. So best of luck to everybody with this quest!"
Meanwhile, Vicki Witherington, from Foresters Drive, Wallington, writes: "I am writing to ask if you could assist me in my quest to discover any information on the crystal fountain that stood in the Crystal Palace until the Palace itself was destroyed in the fire of 1936.
"Apparently the fountain consisted of four tons of crystal and was a favourite rendezvous for couples. I would like to hear from anyone who can remember the fountain. The Crystal Palace foundation intends to hold an exhibition in 2001 and I would like to produce a booklet about the fountain and include any memories and stories that are still available.
"Any assistance you could offer would be greatly appreciated."
With the Crystal Palace Park about to undergo a multi-million pound regeneration and so much controversy over the planned £58m leisure complex on the site of the palace, we at the Guardian Heritage Column would like to hear about any memories of the park you may have.
So if you can help with any of these queries, or want to share any other memories with us, write to: Gary Taphouse, Heritage Column, Croydon Guardian, Guardian House, Sandiford Road, Sutton, Surrey SM3 9RN.
Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
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