This week we are finally able to announce that our new Fleetville book is on sale now! The research for this project started back in 2008 and so everyone is thrilled to finally be able to see the finished product, especially its joint authors who have been working away behind the scenes on this project for so long. The book looks at the history of Fleetville from the eighteenth century when the road to Hatfield was built right up to the present day.

Hatfield Road, St Albans in 1903.

Fleetville is a bustling and diverse area that has experienced rapid change in the post-war years, but still retains its sense of community. The book has been a team effort which was lead by three museum researchers but also incorporates the reminiscences of a number of Fleetville’s inhabitants, both past and present, to tell the story of how the area has changed and developed.

Flooding under the Sutton Road railway bridge in June 1910

Many businesses which have come and gone over the years, including the Ballito stocking factory, Nicholson's Coats, Sander's Orchid Nursery, the Campfield Press and Marconi Instruments Ltd.

'Going to work...at Ballito' leaflet to attract women to work at the Ballito hoisery factory in Fleetville

It also covers other aspects of local life, from religion to schools and shops.

The St Albans Islamic Centre, 141 Hatfield Road in 1999.

As well as telling the history of this part of St Albans, it also includes a heritage trail that you can follow around Fleetville and perhaps see a new side to some familiar sights. If you're interested in buying a copy - and perhaps a couple of extras for Christmas presents! - the book is currently available at the Museum of St Albans but we are hoping it will soon be stocked at Verulamium Museum and St Albans Tourist Information Centre.