The Story Of Stow Maries

Located east of Chelmsford, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is home to a rare example of original World War I airfield buildings, and now more than one fascinating museum. Essex Life finds out more

STOW Maries Great War Aerodrome is a unique place, with a unique history. Its story covers 100 years of life comprised of feverish excitement interspersed with periods of calm and tranquillity. The aerodrome lies to the east of Chelmsford and west of Maldon, within an area of gently-rolling farmland. It has the largest known surviving group of Royal Flying Corps buildings on a World War I aerodrome which were not adapted for further military use later in its history.

The site has significant natural heritage value and is in Natural England’s Higher Level Environmental Stewardship scheme. Ponds and a meadow have been created and the land supports declining farmland species such as brown hare, corn bunting, yellowhammer and a variety of owls, including barn owls and wintering short-eared owls.

Originally opened in 1916 as home to B Flight of No 37(HD) Squadron, Royal Flying Corps, the aerodrome saw the birth of the air defence of Great Britain in response to the first raids by Zeppelins and Gotha bombers on London and the South East. It played a key role in the Battle for Britain (the first London Blitz) the following year. It was at Stow Maries that No 37 Squadron transitioned from the Royal Flying Corps to the Royal Air Force on April 1, 1918. It continued in its dedicated role until the spring of 1919, when the RAF closed its doors forever.