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Given the class structure
of Britain in the 1930s, a solid and safe looking building is something
that would appeal to those with money, who might be tempted to switch their
financial affairs from another bank.
At 45 George Street, the new Branch of Martins sits at the ground
floor of one of croydon’s iconic buildings, the Woolwich Equitable Building
Society Offices. Martins Bank Magazine never visits Croydon, but in 1966
they do report on the retirement of Mr Chambers, who has managed the Branch
for seventeen years…
  on the eve of his retirement at
the end of February Mr Chambers (Manager, Croydon) gave a party at the Conservative Club, Croydon, for a large
number of friends from all over the London District. His guests included Mr
H. Ryder, Mr H. Taylor, and Mr S. W. P. Barter. Before making the presentation the District General
Manager spoke of Mr Chambers' success at Croydon branch during his 17 years
as Manager, and also of his prowess in the field of sport, particularly
hockey. Mr Ryder then presented him with a cheque and a book of signatures
and wished him and his wife a happy and long retirement. Mrs Whale
presented Mrs Chambers with a bouquet. In his
response Mr Chambers thanked Mr Ryder for his good wishes and all those who
had subscribed to his parting gift. Earlier in the day he had been
entertained to lunch by the General Management in London. His career began at 68 Lombard Street in 1922 and he
served at London District branches throughout, apart from four years in
H.M. Forces. He was appointed Manager at Croydon in 1949.
Full circle in Croydon…
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October 1951, and this fantastic image of the
Woolwich Building in Croydon’s George Street displays its own future: – in
a kind of “musical chairs” chain of events, Martins’ Branch closes,
Barclays opens one and then closes it, the Woolwich takes over the building
once more, and then Barclays takes over the Woolwich. Truth is, as so often, stranger than
fiction…
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