Ealing marks 60 years since its formation in 1965, when Ealing, Acton, and Southall merged. Now home to over 375,000 people, the borough’s seven towns each have a rich history behind their names and growth.
This April marks a significant milestone for Ealing, as the borough celebrates 60 years since its formation. In 1965, the former boroughs of Ealing, Acton, and Southall were merged to create the London Borough of Ealing. Over the years, the borough has grown to accommodate more than 375,000 residents, but its roots stretch far back into history, with each of its seven towns having a unique story behind its name and development.
Acton: The ‘Oak Town’
The name Acton derives from the Anglo-Saxon words for ‘Oak Town,’ indicating that a settlement existed here as early as Saxon times. First mentioned in 1181, Acton developed around the Oxford Road (now Uxbridge Road). During the 17th and 18th centuries, it became a favoured retreat for gentry, thanks to its supposed mineral-rich Acton Wells. By the late 19th century, Acton was a hub for small laundries, earning it the nickname ‘Soapsuds Island.’
Ealing: The ‘Queen of the Suburbs’
The name Ealing originates from the Anglo-Saxon term ‘Gillingas,’ referring to the people of Gilla. The area was largely agricultural until the 19th century when the arrival of the Great Western Railway in 1838 transformed it into a commuter town. With the expansion of transport links, Ealing became the first borough in Middlesex to have a mayor in 1901 and earned the title ‘Queen of the Suburbs.’
Greenford: From Village to Industrial Hub
Greenford’s name appears in the Domesday Book of 1086 when it was home to only 130 residents. Once a small farming community, the town became famous for William Perkin’s dye factory in 1857, the first to produce synthetic purple dye. By the 20th century, Greenford had transformed into an industrial hub, housing major companies like Lyons, Rockware Glass, and Glaxo Laboratories.
Hanwell: A Historic Village with a Royal Connection
Believed to have originated from ‘hana’ (cockerel) and ‘weille’ (stream), Hanwell has roots stretching back to the 5th and 6th centuries. Mentioned in the Domesday Book, it remained a rural village for centuries. Notable landmarks include St Mary’s Church and Hanwell Community Centre, which was once home to the famous actor Charlie Chaplin.
Northolt: A Farming Hamlet Turned Suburb
Originally called ‘Northala’ in 1086, Northolt remained a small agricultural village for centuries. With slow population growth due to poor roads and water supply, it wasn’t until the 20th century that it expanded rapidly. The construction of Western Avenue in the 1930s spurred development, and Northolt even had a pony racing course until after World War II.
Perivale: From Farmland to a Modern Town
First mentioned in 1508 as ‘Pyryvale,’ Perivale was a tiny settlement known for its wheat crops. With fewer than 100 residents for centuries, it saw rapid development in the 1930s with the arrival of industries like Sanderson Wallpapers and Hoover Ltd. Today, the name Perivale lives on in Pear Tree Park, named in honour of its origins.
Southall: From Hamlet to Cultural Landmark
Originally known as ‘Southolt,’ Southall was a small hamlet in Norwood Parish. It was largely agricultural until the Grand Junction Canal and Great Western Railway spurred industrialisation in the 19th century. With a growing population, Southall became a municipal borough in 1936. Today, it is known for its vibrant South Asian community and rich cultural diversity.
A Borough Steeped in History
From small Saxon villages to a thriving London borough, Ealing’s towns have witnessed centuries of transformation. As Ealing marks 60 years since its formation, the borough continues to grow while honouring its rich and diverse history.
