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The Half Brick has lead a
chequered life so far. The original building from around 1835 stood
some 200 yards forward of the present one and its no surprise that it
suffered some sea damage - firstly in 1850, it was almost washed away in 1869.
It was rebuilt further back in its present position in 1874 using it is claimed 'half brick' or 'bats' as they were known. The story seems to hold water (no pun intended), as the land directly east was known as Brickfields, a name earned as it produced a good quality clay ideal for brick making. In fact, many of Worthing's old buildings were made with these distinctive yellow Worthing Bricks. CLOSED 2009 |
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Pictured - Mary Ann Barnett (nee Whittington), wife of Alfred Barnett taken around the 1880's to 1890's. Alfred died on the 2nd of December 1907, leaving the princely sum of £1,926, 8 shillings and 10d. Mary Ann's niece Emily Kate Griffin worked at the Half Brick as a barman's assistant in 1901. |
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A picture that has just come to light. Date unknown at this time. The pub I think you will admit looks possible the best it ever has. | ||
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The Half Brick Quoits team posing on the beach opposite the pub. Date and players unknown. | ||
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History update |
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What's in a name? |
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As the building was set on what was known as Worthing Common, right on the waters edge, it is very unlikely to have been made of brick. More likely, is a wooden beam and planking, in keeping with the other buildings along the coast line. This of course, means it would have originated with a different name - the proof of this came to light in the census of 1841 - it was the Brewers Arms. |
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Here we can clearly see Mr William Shepard (Publican) and his wife Ann along with Sampson Ashbourne who was the gate keeper at the nearby Toll House. |
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It is clear that the Half Brick was its second name, arriving with its second rebuild, which we can probably assume had a more solid foundation and lower walls of brick thus a 'Half Brick' building. The upper section, or possibly upper floor, would still be made of cheaper wooden beams and shingle weather boards. The map on the right shows its final resting place - here it is simply named 'Inn'.
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Demolition |
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The demise of a pub is always a sad thing, but fortunately the oldest section of the pub is a listed building and has to be kept. To this end the apartments that are taking its place have to incorporate the original frontage. | ||
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Known
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