 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
                      |
 |
We purchased The SMITHY in 1986 as an out-building to our house, also included were 4 small fields. The SMITHY was primarily used this century as a cattle byre for 4 cows.We have two maps one published in 1840 clearly shows the property being present. The earlier map dated 1778 does not show any buildings, but indicates the land was owned by: T. Wycliffe, M. Wilminson, and J. Snaith. Another map in the local library (undated) has the word "SMITHY" beside the property. In fact when we converted the cow byre in 1990, we came across what was left of the forge and chimney, this is where the stone fireplace is located in the lounge. The SMITHY is 670 feet above sea level with a commanding view, but in winter, before the advent of central heating, it must have been difficult keeping the house warm. The previous owner but two, lived here for many years. Upto the late 60's he kept 4 milking cows in the SMITHY. In the 50's the roads were quiet enough for him to be able to release his cows to graze the grass roadside verges. They would then wonder back at 4pm for the afternoon milking. We still have in our deeds the right to operate an automatic egg vending machine. This was one of his enterprises in the 50's and 60's. The house was briefly owned by a local farmer who then sold it to a retired army chaplain. He lived here with is family from about 1972, and was responsible for the first modernization of the property. The Chaplain was very keen on developing it as a small holding. His duck pond has recently been renovated as a fish pond. The SMITHY has been a working property for at least 160 years.
|
 |
