JAYWICK SANDS ESTATE has a chequered history. Renowned for its expanse of golden sand, it has long attracted fisherman and smugglers. Only in the 20th century, however, did people settle there, responding to the offer from F.C. Stedman, the original developer, of chalets for less than £50. These were no ordinary people either, but pioneers in the true sense of the word. Escaping the drudgery of city life, London’s Eastenders found at Jaywick a place where they were free to build their own homes with their own hands, unhindered by planners or building societies. They formed their own Association – a ‘local authority’ in all respects though without official status – to look after the residents and the estate, and with good reason Jaywick became known as ‘the happiest resort on the Essex coast’.This account of Jaywick Sands Estate, the creation of entrepreneurs, pioneers and carefree holidaymakers, is an important addition to the published history of this part of Essex, and will intrigue local historians, residents and visitors alike.
