The earliest mention of The Shepherd and Dog on Shepherds Hill was recorded in 1847.
The pub was also known as The Spotted Dog, Gatsby’s and Free Spirit before it closed, though the dates associated to these names are unknown.
The pub pictured in 1905, with a cart parked out front (Image: Havering Libraries – Local Studies) According to Havering Libraries, archives have preserved a deeds grant dated to November 8 of that year by the Lord of the Manor of Gaines in Upminster.
Details of the grant point to the watering hole as forming part of the waste from the manor when it was split up.
The origin of The Shepherd and Dog is that of a beer house for farmers, after a census from 1851 named licensee William Oliver as a beer retailer.
Arthur John Wallace was summoned to the Romford Petty Sessions court after being reported for being drunk on his own premises the previous month.
The 50-year-old was found guilty and fined ten shillings for his drunken disorder.
Fast forward nearly 100 years and in 2012, the pub was refurbished to further promote its restaurant.
In 2021 after further change, including a change of name, the space reopened as Array Essex.
This was a joint venture by season three Love Island winner Kem Cetinay and his business partner Nadir Gul.
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The restaurant was a controversial addition to the area, dogged by anti-social behaviour, noise complaints and a stabbing outside its premises.
A two-day council meeting saw councillors agree to curb the hours of operation for Array, before Kem announced its closure for a rebrand.
It is understood that the space has since changed ownership.
