Mitcham Grove: Architects Plans
| Area | Mitcham |
|---|---|
| Picture Reference | Mit_Buildings_26-14 |
| Original Format | Drawing |
| Notes / History | A sizeable house has existed on this site since the Medieval Period. In the Tudor age Thomas Smythe, an official in the court of Elizabeth 1, owned the house and estate. His descendants retained ownership during the first quarter of the Georgian Period. Baron Clive of India owned Mitcham Grove in the 18th century. It appears that Clive gave Mitcham Grove to Alexander Wedderburn's around 1773 in recognition of his considerable help and support. Wedderburn later became Lord Chancellor. In 1774, under instruction from Alexander Wedderburn, Robert Adam started to draw up plans to turn the house into an elegantly proportioned and fashionable mansion. Henry Hoare, an eminent City financier and senior partner in Hoares Bank, Fleet Street, purchased Mitcham Grove circa 1786. He was an active member and benefactor within the local Mitcham community for over 40 years until his death in 1828. The house suffered following his death and having failed to attract a buyer was demolished in 1846. |
