Description

What’s in the Names? Program Presented by Nancy Davis on Friday, June 27th at 1PM. Discover the rich history behind North Rochford Road’s branch roads, Wood Place & Besant Park Road. Samuel Bessant (correct spelling), a carpenter from Southampton, England, built a stagecoach stop on what is now Besant Park Road. His family’s story is one of tragedy, survival, & eventual success, leaving audiences to ponder whether Bessant was a victim of circumstances or his own questionable choices. Nearby, Archibald Bell Wood & Gertrude Hazel Thue, of Scottish & Norwegian descent, homesteaded Wood Place near the Dumont Train stop. Archie & Gerty, a mother of six and beloved midwife, left a lasting legacy.