While Ottershaw is a relatively "young" village, the area around Brox Road holds some of the oldest stories in the parish. Before the village centered around the church, the hamlet of Brox was a thriving, self-contained community.
1. The Lost Hamlet of Brox
Once a distinct settlement separate from the main cluster of houses, Brox's deep history is still visible today. The Grade II listed cottage at 192 Brox Road, dating to the 18th century, is a rare surviving link to the lane's rural origins.
2. The Bonsey Brothers Pottery
In the mid-1800s, Brox Road was an industrial hub. Sitting on a rich vein of clay, the Bonsey Brothers manufactured everything from decorative garden pots to agricultural tiles, serving as a major local employer for decades.
3. A Legacy of Philanthropy
Chaworth House, built by the Earl and Countess of Meath, originally served as a "Ministering Children’s League" home. Later known as Chaworth St James School, it remained a vital local landmark until its closure in the early 1990s.
4. Education and Evolution
Opened in 1905 to support the village's growing population, the Infant School on Brox Road became a cornerstone of village life. Its transformation from school to restaurant and beyond reflects the road's constant ability to adapt.
The Heart of Ottershaw
Brox Road has evolved from a muddy lane connecting scattered farms and kilns to the vibrant residential heart of our community. The mix of Victorian cottages and modern developments tells a story of local pride and constant growth.