Wimbledon is synonymous with tennis. However, it has a fascinating history that has nothing to do with the Centre Court. Wimbledon`s manor house was a home of the Elizabethan Cecil family &, in later years, of the Spencers. The new railway encouraged development in this rural area & endangered even the Common, which was saved in 1871. Notable residents have included William Pitt, William Wilberforce (also a resident of Clapham), John Horne Tooke & Joseph Bazalgette.