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Hidden Hertford
Even if you've lived in Hertford for many years, there may still be parts of the town that you may be unaware of. This section covers a number of sites in and around the town that may have escaped your notice.
The Tower
Despite it's appearance, this ruin is in fact a late nineteenth century construction. It was built by Thomas Smith, a local architect, who lived in North Road House, and it was in the grounds of the house that he constructed this folly. The Tower formed the centrepiece of landscaping improvements that Smith made in the grounds including low waterfalls and bridges. He also designed a number of prominent buildings in the town including the County Hospital, the Congregational Church and Christ Church. His reputation was international and in addition to buildings in the town he also designed several villas and a hotel in Cannes plus churches in Nice, Naples and Stuttgart. In 1830 he married Elizabeth Bellchambers, whose family had a shop in Fore Street. In 1868 Thomas Smith also became the Mayor of the town. A leaflet giving more details can be obtained from Hertford Library.
Photographs © 1998 Steve Beeston
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