John Hawks

John fell in love with Merton in 1989 when he became founding manager of Merton Abbey Mills. He is Vice Chair of Merton Priory Trust and Wandle Heritage Limited, a Trustee of the Wandle Industrial Museum, a member of the Wandle Valley Forum, and Curator of the Chapter House Museum.

The articles John has written are below.

Collage showing historic and modern photos of Merton, including old streets, factories, traffic, and aerial views of urban development.

Merton’s Transformation From Roman Roads to Retail Parks

The Wandle has seen dramatic change over the last 150 years. In this article, local historian John Hawks looks back at Merton’s transformation – from peaceful countryside to industrial sprawl, …

A collage of images showing Merton Priory’s ancient walls, featuring flint and stone masonry with visible damage and structural weaknesses.

Merton Priory’s Ancient Walls: Can They Be Saved?

Merton Priory stood for centuries on the banks of the River Wandle, but only fragments remain today. In this article, local historian John Hawks explores the history of its ancient …