East Horndon - History

History

There were two manors in East Horndon, Heron on the north of the church and Abbotts on the south. By the 14th century the Tyrells of Herongate had been gaining influence, and became the patrons of the church. This family demolished most of the Norman church, rebuilding it in the present style. The chancel and south transept are late 15th century. There is a splendid limestone figure of Alice, wife of Sir John Tyrell, flanked by her children all named. The south and north chapels were built for the interments of the family. Climb the stairs to enter the south gallery - a pleasant living room for the chantry priest in pre-Reformation times, even a Tudor fireplace. Outside this attractive building is a squat tower with distinctive corner turrets, and a stepped parapet.

Below, on the south of the church, East Horndon is reduced to the original old road to Herongate, winding up the hill, two restaurants and two houses. Crossing the road bridge to the other side and returning the way we have come, we find the old road running off towards the Thames, and in its angle is East Horndon Hall, the old manor or Abbots. There is reputed to have been a tunnel from the Hall to the church across the present Southend Road.

East Horndon once had its own petrol station with a nightlcub known as "Elliots". The nightclub and petrol station still remain today, but they are totally derelict. Many locals visit the nightclub, but it is a very unsafe building.

The southern portion of the traditional parish of East Horndon is now in the unitary authority of Thurrock.