The Saxon King in Petersfield Avenue is thought to be the first of the purpose-built pubs on the Harold Hill estate, according to Havering Libraries.
The watering hole opened its doors to customers in June 1955, just days after The Morris Dancer opened as a pub after being converted from New Hall Farm.
Upon opening, the Saxon King was a Courage Brewery pub leased from London County Council.
Havering Libraries’ archives have preserved information of the pub’s first landlord, 42-year-old ex-Flying Squad Det Sgt Albert Herron who ran the boozer with his wife Ivy.
Its name, like others in the area, is understood to reflect the historic roots of Harold Hill.
READ MORE: Luxury Hornchurch hotel issues update on progress after ‘planning breach’
Harold, also known as the last ‘Saxon King’, once owned all of the land that now makes up the area, Havering Libraries said.
His close predecessor, King Edward the Confessor, is also said to have been closely associated with the manor of Havering.
The Saxon King is now thought to be one of Harold Hill’s two surviving pubs, accompanied by The Alderman which, as of a recent council decision, is set to be demolished.
