Memories of Needham

Local historian, Dennis Cross from Diss, shares with us his fascinating collection of old postcards, focusing on a different village in every issue. This time, we take a walk down memory lane in Needham.

This 1943 postcard shows Needham, looking towards Harleston. The population at this time was 276. At the time of this 1904 postcard, there were many thatched houses in Needham, and horse and cart was the transport of the day. New houses have now been built each side of the road, and the village was bypassed over 30 years ago, returning Needham to a peaceful setting.

Looking toward Brockdish, villagers pose for the camera in this 1910 postcard. The Red Lion pub can be seen on the far left.

Needham church alongside the school, which was built in 1873 and enlarged in 1898. Mrs Knights was the headmistress at the time of this 1910 postcard. The school closed in 1959 and converted into a village hall. St Peter’s church has a round tower in the Norman style and contains three bells.

This 1920 postcard shows Needham Mill, which – in the early years – was called ‘Sparrow’s Mill’. The mill was used until 1934, and the machinery removed in 1940 for the war effort. A 1915 rural scene around Needham, taken by local photographer Mr Cann.

Needham Street in 1912 shows the Red Lion pub on the right, where the landlord was Charles Colton, and the Fishmonger’s Arms pub on the left. The Red Lion is still open.

The Norfolk Postcard Club meets regularly in Trowse in Norwich and new members are very welcome. Meetings have currently been suspended.

Dennis is also the author of several local history books that can be purchased by contacting him direct.

If readers have any local postcards of Diss or the surrounding villages, please get in touch with him after 7pm on 01379 651897. ©