15-year-old Eldon Arms pub in Ferryhill damaged by fire

Eldon Arms Pub’s History and Closure

The Eldon Arms, a pub rich in Victorian features, was once home to a world championship star. It failed to reopen after the pandemic and now sits empty. Once vibrant, it was built in a prime location to bring a touch of London grandeur to the County Durham mining community.

Historical Significance of Ferryhill Station

A station opened at Ferryhill in 1840 by the Clarence Railway, which ran to the north bank of the Tees. When the East Coast Main Line joined in 1844, Ferryhill became a railway hub. Inns like The Clarence, The Swan, and The Commercial sprang up beside the line.

Opening of the Eldon Arms

The Eldon Arms opened around 1872, facing the station. It was created by William Hogarth, a joiner and builder, and his wife, Jane Ann. Mr. Hogarth echoed the style of Sir George Gilbert Scott, who designed the Midland Grand Hotel, which opened in 1873.

Financial Struggles and Community Role

Despite his efforts, Mr. Hogarth was declared bankrupt on December 21, 1878. In February, the pub and his possessions were auctioned. Jane Ann remained landlady until her death in 1894. The pub became a community hub, hosting auctions, concerts, and meetings.

Notable Events at the Eldon Arms

Inquests were held there, including one in 1884 for engine driver Thomas Fenwick, who died in an accident. Public meetings also took place, such as a 1882 meeting where railwaymen formed a local branch of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants.

In 1887, a meeting discussed the search for Robert Bell, who had mysteriously disappeared. A letter from his father expressed gratitude for the community’s efforts to find him.

Continued Community Engagement

The Eldon Arms, named after the Earl of Eldon, remained a community hub into the 20th Century. In the 1930s, it served as a rehearsal room for Mainsforth Colliery Band. It also hosted a lodge of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes and became known for racing pigeon fanciers.

Recent History and Darts Championship

In the late 20th Century, Bob and Elsie Carr were long-time hosts, followed by Paula Richardson and Dave Athey. They supported Phill “the Ferryhill Flyer” Nixon in his journey to the 2007 World Darts Championship. He wore the pub’s name on his shirt and reached the televised final.

Despite trailing 6-0 at the interval, he made a thrilling comeback to tie the match at 6-6. Although he lost the decider, he gained many admirers. However, regulars at the Eldon Arms could not watch him play due to a ban on televisions by the brewery.

Future of the Eldon Arms

The Eldon Arms was a Samuel Smith’s pub, which discourages mobile phones to maintain a traditional atmosphere. After the recent setback, it remains uncertain if the pub can regain its former glory as a community center.

Recent Incident

A fire occurred at the Eldon Arms in Ferryhill Station on Monday.