The Clarkes papers show the proprietor of the Wonder Bar, Promenade in 1934 was Mr Easton. The 1937 Kelly’s state: Wonder Bar (William Easton, proprietor), Café & amusement arcade, Promenade.
Before coming to Canvey the family were based in Islington. He married his wife May Louise Cleaver in St Paul’s St Pancras when they were both aged just 19 in 1918. As far as I can see they had two sons Harold Victor b 1920 d1920 and Leslie Donald b1928. William’s full name was William Thomas Harold Easton b1889 died 1955 in Romford.
Comments about this page
I am not sure when it became the Peerless Palladiam, but it was still the wonder bar in 1951.
I see a reference to “Wonder Bar” in September 1952, but a reference to its new name “Peerless Playdium” in October 1953.
Hi Tony
I guess you remember this from your very early days as one of Bill Wells pony boys. I remember my Dad used to deliver rolls there to Morrie Kay in the 50s. Time plays tricks with the memory but I thought it was on the r/hand side next to the pony track, could have been moved over to make more room for the amusements?
I used to ‘wonder’ whether the name had a connection to the popular song at the time’ Wunderbar, Wunderbar’ ( 1949 Kiss me Kate)🤔🙂
Re the Easton family could they be the same people who owned quite a few properties at the top of Gafselle Dave inc a greengrocers on the end of Dunmow Hse.
Tony , one of your cousins lived in Easton Lodge, a bit further down. Graham
Looking at the date of the postcard seems my ideas about the song were way out!!! 🙄. G.
My name is GARY EASTON . My nan and grandad owned the wonder bar my dad Alan and his brother Bob and sister Dolly lived above the cafe. Has far as I know yes my grandad owned property at gafselle and I think the monastery too. He had wonderbar,s in DAGENHAM, ISLINGTON, and parliament hill. And other properties around romford. DAGENHAM, and Edmonton london
Add a comment about this page