Southport U3A

Birth of Waterloo – Local History

The Local History Group enjoyed a walk with a blue guide recently entitled ‘The Birth of Waterloo’. It was a walk of discovery around the hidden suburb which dates back from the battle of the same name.

Today, Waterloo is bordered by Crosby to the north, Seaforth to the South, the Rimrose Valley  country park the east, and to the west Crosby Beach and Crosby Coastal Park.

In Georgian times the land was mainly an area of rough pasture. However an extensive shoreline,  fine views and good sea air provided for the town’s  transformation.

In 1815 a hotel and six cottages were built. The hotel opened the following year and was named , Royal Waterloo Hotel in commemoration of the triumphant battle.

Gradually the area began to grow in popularity as a sea bathing place and coaches began to run regularly to the Royal Hotel.

Some of the wealthier visitors started to build residencies. This early residential development was along the coastline known as Adelaide Terrace.

Number 17 was home to Edward Smith, captain of the ill fated RMS Titanic which sadly was  lost on its maiden voyage in 1912. He perished along with over 1500 in the freezing waters of the Atlantic.

At the end of the terrace, known as Beach Lawn we saw the home of Henry Ismay who controlled The White Star line. He was a very wealthy man who displayed his initials within the iron work at the font of his house.

Nowadays these charming Terraces offer us some wonderful examples of 19th century architectural styles and are well worth a visit.
Our guide was excellent as she lived in one of the cottages on Adelaide Terrace so was was very well informed and passionate about the area.

It was an extremely interesting, enjoyable and educational walk and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

If you would like to learn more about the Local History group please visit their page. To make an enquiry about Southport u3a, or if you are interested in joining us, you can complete our Contact Form.

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