Forge: Industries of Croydon

An exhibition exploring how industry has shaped Croydon  

Croydon has a rich industrial past that has shaped the town and borough we see today.

From its rural roots to its factories and power stations, Croydon has been making products for centuries. 

Forge: Industries of Croydon celebrates the people, places and innovations of industry in the borough, past and present.

Along with an overview of iconic factories such as Trojan, Bourjois and Philips, the exhibition explores three fascinating areas of local industry – textile cleaning and dyeing, beer brewing and metal working. 

Explore Gillet and Johnson’s fascinating bell foundry, creators of the largest tuned bell in the world, or the 350-year history of beer brewing on High Street.

At the core of the display are images of Addington Forge, taken by local photographer Lee Williams. Dating back to 1740, the blacksmiths forge is still in full use and William’s photographs reveal behind-the-scenes of this traditional industry.

To find out more, visit the Museum of Croydon website.

Opening Times

Weds – Fri, 11am – 4pm
1st Floor Exhibition Gallery, Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1ET