V2 - London Lockdown - Day 31

Staveley Road cherry blossom trees.

The street that runs along the west side of Chiswick House and Gardens is famous for its flowering cherry trees. Here in Staveley Road and annual Blossom Festival is held in April each year - except this year!! The trees were planted in 1932 at the same time the houses were built. It creates a very picturesque street scape for both the locals and any visitors. 

What we discovered on our walk was another notable event that occurred in Staveley Road. The first Nazi V2 rocket missile to land on London was here in Staveley Road. A plaque has been placed where the rocket landed on that fateful day in September 1944. 

Plaque at the spot in Staveley Road where V2 rocket landed.

 The explosion killed three and demolished 11 houses. This quiet part of London was in shock, and the extent of the devastation was not reported in the paper so not to highlight the extent of the damage, or, the extent of the fear it could engender. 

Staveley Road 8th September 1944 after V2 rocket attack.

 Later V2 attacks on London and other cities were reported but the locations were overstated so rocket guidance systems would be recalibrated, causing later attacks to fall short - away from populated areas. 

The tranquillity of the street today belies the turbulence of that day in September 1944. 

Our trek home took us back through Chiswick House and Gardens. It was here that we were able to get up close to the majestic Grey Heron strutting along the creek bank. 

Grey Heron at Chiswick House and Gardens. 

Later, we made our way back home to James’ apartment where the day seems to be pretty full. Cabin fever hasn’t been a problem. There were many distractions to keep us busy for the rest of the day.