Downham facts for kids
Downham is a name that refers to different places and people, mostly in England. When you see "Downham," it could mean a town, a village, or even a person's last name! It's like a popular name that many different things share.
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Places Called Downham
Many places in England share the name Downham. These places often have a long history, sometimes going back hundreds of years.
Downham Market in Norfolk
Downham Market is a busy market town located in the county of Norfolk, England. It sits on the edge of an area called the Fens, which are very flat, low-lying lands. The town is known for its historic clock tower, which is a famous landmark. People visit Downham Market for its shops and local events. It's a place where people live, work, and enjoy the countryside.
Downham in London
Downham is also a district in the southeast part of London, the capital city of England. It is mainly a residential area, meaning many homes and families live there. The Downham Estate is a large housing area within this district. It was built a long time ago to provide homes for many people. This part of London is a busy urban area with schools, parks, and local shops.
Other Downham Villages
There are several other smaller villages and civil parishes named Downham across England. These include:
- Downham in Cambridgeshire, which is a civil parish.
- Little Downham, also in Cambridgeshire, is a smaller village nearby.
- Downham in Essex, another village in a different part of England.
- Downham in Lancashire, located in the north of England.
- Downham West and Downham, South Norfolk, both in the county of Norfolk.
- Downham in Northumberland, found in the far north of England.
People with the Surname Downham
The name Downham is also a surname, meaning it's a family name. Several notable people have had Downham as their last name.
Jenny Downham: A Storyteller
Jenny Downham is a modern British novelist, which means she writes books. She is known for her powerful and emotional stories. Her books often explore difficult but important topics, making readers think deeply about life and feelings. She is a respected writer in the world of literature.
Historical Figures Named Downham
Some people named Downham lived many centuries ago and were important in their time:
- George Downham (1560-1634) was a bishop, a high-ranking leader in the church. He served as the Bishop of Derry in Ireland.
- John Downham (1571-1652) was an English clergyman, meaning he was also involved in the church. He was known for his religious writings.
- William Downham (1511–1577) was another bishop, who served as the Bishop of Chester in England.
