When was Woolwich Dockyard founded and who established it?
Woolwich Dockyard was founded in 1512 by Henry VIII to build his flagship Henry Grace à Dieu. The facility operated for three and a half centuries before closing down in 1869.
Questions about Woolwich
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is the Iron Age history of Woolwich settlement?
Remains of a Celtic oppidum were found at the current Waterfront development site between Beresford Street and the Thames, established sometime between the 3rd and 1st century BCE. This defensive earthwork encircled the landward sides of a riverside settlement that may have been a significant port anterior to London.
How did the population of Woolwich change from 1665 to 1801?
The population reached an estimated 1,200 or more in 1665 when Samuel Pepys stayed there to escape the Great Plague. By 1720 the town's population had risen to 6,500, reaching almost 10,000 in 1801 during wartime expansion.
When did the Royal Arsenal close and what happened to the site?
The Royal Arsenal finally closed in 1994 after scaling back operations since the late 20th century. Recent regeneration has seen historic buildings renovated into apartments with thousands of homes built or under construction near the river.
What is the origin of Woolwich Polytechnic and its successor institution?
Woolwich Polytechnic was founded in 1891 and merged with other local colleges in 1970 to become Thames Polytechnic. It was granted university status in 1992 and renamed the University of Greenwich one year later.