Westham began as an outlying part of the parish of Wyke Regis. By the 1840s, the area on this side of the backwater already had the Gasworks, founded in 1836, and a pottery with its own quay. The Melcombe Regis cemetery in Newstead Road was opened in 1856 with a lodge to house the keeper. In 1859 a wooden bridge across the backwater opened, thus making for easier access, more so for those who were to be buried. Abbotsbury Road is often found recorded as 'Cemetery Bridge Road'. The 1861 census records the 'road to the cemetery' which later became Newstead Road, and contained the Gas house, the Cemetery Lodge, Shale House Cottage (pottery) and Crockers Folly. The latter was a small group of cottages not far from the gasworks. Building was gradually increasing during this period and at a public meeting in 1882, the name West Ham was decided on for this new area, which before too long became Westham as we know it today.

The big event on Saturday 26th April 2008 at Conifers Primary School was held to commemorate the formation of Westham 125 years ago and celebrate its history. Some pictures and a video of the event are on the Westham 125 page.

Part of Westham was built on the site of Westham Camp where the ANZAC troops were accommodated during WW1. Archaeological digs are planned to find any traces of the buildings that once occupied the site. One such dig has already taken place, but volunteer diggers are still being sought, so if you'd like to help, please call Chris on 01305 781620. He would be delighted to hear from you.

Such was the popularity and success of the history exhibition at the Westham 125 event, a book about Westham's history is now in preparation. If you have anything relating to the history that could be included or if you have memories of bygone times in Westham that you'd be happy to share, please contact using the email address given below.

Advance Book Publication Notice
The book is well underway and it is hoped to be published soon. If you would like to be notified when it is, please send an email to the address below, with the subject as: "Westham Book".

You are also very welcome to join the Weymouth and Dorset Local and Family History Forums where you may post any memories you'd like to.

Guestbook - where you may leave your comments about the 125 event or about Westham things or the website.

Interactive Map of the Westham area - showing landmark buildings past and present

Some historical resources have been transcribed and have now been added to the website to help those interested in the local or family history of Westham. Added so far are:

Westham - 1889 Directory

Westham - 1895 Directory

Westham - 1911 Directory

Westham - 1915 Directory