EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF GRIFFYDAM

Griffydam is a small hamlet in North West Leicestershire and is located in the parish of Worthington.

The name of the village of Griffydam is thought to originate from Old Norse “gryfja” (cleft/valley) and Old English “dammer” (dam). There are also historical references to “Griffith’s dam”. This suggests that a “small” settlement probably developed as far back as the time of the Viking invasion of 873.

To discover more about the history of our village go to TOPICS, TIMELINE, follow the HERITAGE TRAIL..... or view the Book Publications via the link below, from which we have taken may extracts for this website with the kind permission of the author Samuel T Stewart.

Chapel Parade

Methodist Chapel

Sam Hodges Returning After War

Chapel Parade

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VE DAY 80th Celebrations 8th May 2025

On 7 May 1945 the formal act of military surrender was signed by Germany, ending the war in Europe. The next day celebrations broke out all over the world to mark Victory in Europe or VE Day.

Griffydam Schools closed on the 8th May 1945 for 2 days National Holiday to mark VE Day and former Griffydam resident Chris Richards recalls the long lines of tables erected on Top Road, Griffydam, for the celebrations.

August 15th 1945 was proclaimed Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, bringing an end to World War II, although the signing of the official instrument of surrender did not occur until September 2nd 1945. Griffydam Schools were closed on the 24th September 1945 for further celebrations.