Curated collection
Stanford Rivers by H. M. Scott
This history of the Manors of Stanford Rivers, Traceys and Bellhouse
illustrates very clearly the deep roots of both Stanford Rivers Church
and Parish. It is worth remembering that "Stanford" goes right back
to Anglo-Saxon times, and when we add "Rivers" we go way back to
the days of King John.
In this book we catch a glimpse of Stanford Rivers' past; its connection
with the Royal House and the History of England. The Benefice is today
under Royal Patronage. It has always been so since the days when the
Sovereign lodged in the Parish whilst hunting in Epping Forest. Some
say Elizabeth I could have worshipped in St. Margaret's Church. No
doubt Oliver Cromwell passed through on his way to Felstead, and
certainly David Livingstone had reason to remember his visit to
Stanford Rivers.
The Parish is indeed fortunate to have a Lord of the Manor with a
sense of history and an appreciation of bygone days. We are indebted
to our esteemed friend Harold Scott for compiling this interesting
and detailed account of past events, and for his continuing concern
and support for all that takes place in the Village in the present.
He has spent many hours, expended much effort and exercised a great
deal of patience in accumulating the material for this book. In the
process, his kind and generous disposition has naturally won for him,
and for his dear wife Joan, many good friends in Essex and in other
parts of the world.
In these times of change and movement of population it is good to
have such a book as this, and to be reminded of the long history
which has shaped so much of our present life.
December, 1973.
JOSEPH SYKES
Rector of Stanford Rivers.
Article · 1 of 4
Stanford Rivers by H. M. Scott (Part 1): The Horticultural Society 1901-1973
It would appear that prior to the founding of the Toot Hill Horticultural Society – a similar society was formed in Stanford Rivers as early as 1885.
The Epping Gazette, dated 14/9/1901, stated:
"The Stanford Rivers Flower Show was held in a field lent by Mr. David Christy, J.P. Mr. and Mrs. Christy very kindly entertained a large number of friends to tea at Stanford Rivers Hall during the afternoon. The Treasurer is Mr. G. R. Etherton."
The same newspaper, dated 24/9/1904, reported on the 19th Annual Show –
"The society was entertained by Mrs. Adcock of Traceys. There were many amusements including Davies Steam Circus, The Epping Town Band, etc. There were Sports and I really believe I saw some young folk playing a game which they tell me is as old as the hills and goes by the name of "Kiss-in-the-ring". The Committee included Messrs N. Wilson, J. F. Mugleston, G. H. Lockyer, Pledge, Wm. Millbank, H. W. Millbank, E. Symes, A. and F. King and Syson."
The same newspaper reported:-
9/9/1905: "The Stanford Rivers Cottage Garden Show was held in a field lent by Messrs. Bingley. The successful show had 500 entries."
24/3/1906: "The Stanford Rivers Cottage Garden Show (of which Mr. George A. Howgate is the Hon. Secretary and Mr. R. Waltham is the Hon. Treasurer) began the season with 6/- and ended it with £8 in their favour."
As a result of a decision made in 1953 by Messrs. W. R. Holt, G. Wood and R. Murray, the society was founded. The first officers were: President – Mr. A. Licence, Chairman – Mr. W. R. Holt, Hon. Secretary – Mr. E. W. Banks, Hon. Treasurer – Mr. G. Wood. The first show was held on Saturday, 31st July, 1954 with money prizes for successful exhibitors, but no cups. The show was a great success with 330 exhibits. The show failed to pay for itself but with income from vice-presidents and other supporting activities, the committee was left with a credit balance of £72.
The second show was held on July 30th, 1955 on the Football Ground and attracted over 550 people. Cups and Medals were awarded – The Banksian Medal of the Royal Horticultural Society; The Green Cup – for the highest number of points (Cottage Class); The Hinman Cup – for the most attractive cottage garden; The Millbank Cup – for the highest number of points (Domestic Class); The Chandler Rose Bowl – for Needlework and Knitting.
The financial result for the day showed a small loss of £4 but the closing balance rose to £120.
That a show could be so successful in its formative years was due to an enthusiastic committee and the generous support of the parishioners who gave generously of their services, loan of equipment and transport. The success was also due, in no small measure, in having on its committee Mr. "Bill" Green. His counsel and guidance was invaluable.
In 1955, the show's Vice-Presidents included:- R. Armitage, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Auchinvole, S. Grant, Esq., W. Green, Esq., W. F. Hinman, Esq., A. Ireland, Esq., J. Kerr, Esq., Col. G. R. V. Kinsman, C.M.G., D.S.O., W. Macaulay, Esq., Mrs. E. Millbank, J. Millbank, Esq., W. Pearl, Esq., J. Pledge, Esq., Lt. Col. Sir D. Spencer Smith, Bart, O.B.E., etc. The Hon. Secretary was E. W. Banks, Esq.
The 17th show was held on Saturday, August 1st, 1970, and included a Dog Show with a record of 65 dogs! Naturally, by this year many of the society's officers had changed – The President being Dr. A. M. Beck, Vice-Presidents and Committee members included Lady Caroline Armitage, Miss Lucy Millbank, Rev. J. Sykes, Mr. R. Witham, Mr. P. J. S. Griggs, Mrs. R. C. Chitson, Mr. D. Styman, Mrs. E. I. Withers. The Chairman was Major R. S. Whalley and the Hon. Secretary – Miss J. J. Withers.
The 18th Annual Toot Hill Show, Saturday, July 31st, 1971.
Essex Weekly News 5/8/71.
TOOT HILL
Horticultural Show.- A thousand people flocked to Home Field, Toot Hill, on Saturday for the eighteenth annual show held by the Toot Hill and District Horticultural Society.
In the show's horticultural section, there were 800 entries; the number of entries in the domestic and children's classes were up, while those in the flower, fruit and vegetable sections were lower than last year. For the second time in the show's history, the Woodman Cup was not awarded. This cup is for the highest total of cash prizes won by novices and in the ten classes concerned, there was only one entry. Chairman Major R. S. Whalley said afterwards the committee were disappointed at this result. "Not enough of the younger householders are willing to have a go," he said.
Two cups, for the best-kept cottage garden (the Hinman Cup) and for the best front garden (Armitage Cup) were judged in advance. They were won by C. W. Lake and A. F. Roberts, respectively, both of whom live in Toot Hill.
Other events included a fancy dress competition, a dog show, children's sports and many stalls and sideshows. An innovation this year was the Women's Institute section. In all five local W.I.s entered and the prize, a silver rose bowl, was donated by Mr. Harold M. Scott, and named after a local resident for many years, Miss Lucy Millbank, who always took great interest in the work of the W.I. and who died early this year. The bowl was won by Fyfield. Other W.I.s taking part were, from Toot Hill, Castle, North Weald and Ongar.
Tug-o-war teams from two local public houses, the Green Man (Toot Hill) and the Cock (Ongar) competed for a firkin of beer, which was won by the Ongar side. There were also rides on a miniature traction engine and on a pony owned and led by Jane Taylor, of Doe's Farm, Stanford Rivers.
Results: Fancy dress – prettiest entry, Jacqueline Reynolds; most original, Rona Reimann; judge's discretion, Roderick Norton. Sports – first prize winners, Graham Smith, Richard Manning, Angela Watten, Alan White, Elsa Frazer, Kevin Warren, Trevor Monk, Clive Warren, Timothy Kyndt, Paul Smiles; mothers' race was won by Mrs. Martin, and the fathers' race by Mr. Richard Warren.
Horticultural cup winners – Banksian Medal, W. Jarvis; Green Cup, W. Jarvis; Hinman Cup, C. W. Lake; Front garden competition cup, A. F. Roberts; Armitage Cup, A. Clifton; Millbank Cup, Mrs. N. Wood; Chandler Rose Bowl, B. Sharp; Society Cup, A. Clifton; Tugendhat Cup, Mrs. R. Chitson and Mrs. G. Wood; Conway Cup, Karen Wood; Dobriach Cup (for the best dog in show), Mr. Wilmot's Alsatian "Starlight"; Crescot Tankard, Margaret Lambert; Garden News Perpetual Shield, Mrs. Chitson; Society award for best vegetable exhibit, W. Fincham.
The trophies were presented to the winners by the Lord of the Manor – who was present throughout the afternoon, together with his wife, daughter and son-in-law and grandson. At the end of the prize-giving, Mrs. Scott was presented with a magnificent bouquet of flowers.
The Women's Institute ran the Tea Tent in a most efficient manner.
The society showed a gratifying profit of approx. £60 for the afternoon and this was donated towards the Old People's Christmas Dinner Fund.
In 1971 – Mr. and Mrs. Harold M. Scott were elected Life Members of the Society and Mr. Scott elected a Vice-President.
The 19th Toot Hill Horticultural was held on August 5th, 1972. About 1,000 attended, paying a total of £64 for admission to the field. The success of the show was, in part, due to the work of the new Secretary – Mrs. Pat Sayer. The Lucy Millbank Cup for the W.I. co-operative class was retained by Fyfield. The Dog Show was again a popular feature and the entries totalled 131.
At the 1972 Annual Meeting, the Treasurer – Mr. T. W. Withers stated that the year showed a profit of £76.88. The new Secretary, Mrs. Pat Sayer attended for the first time in her official capacity. Major Whalley's resignation as Chairman was regretted by all those present. Mrs. Jane S. Roberts was elected as the Chairman.
The 20th Annual Show was held on Home Field (by kind permission of Mr. Philip Millbank) on August 11th, 1973. There were over 750 entries and over 1,000 visitors attended. The Lucy Millbank Cup was won by the Ongar W.I. The afternoon, as usual, was a great success.
In December 1973, it was announced that the Secretary (Mrs. Sayer) had resigned and Miss Judith Staines had consented to fill the position.
Article · 2 of 4
Stanford Rivers by H. M. Scott (Part 2): Purchase of the Titles of the Lordships
PURCHASE OF THE TITLES OF THE LORDSHIPS
by H. M. Scott, Esq.
THE MANORS are incorporeal hereditaments — i.e. the titles exist without being attached
to any particular land. The deeds are kept in the safe keeping of the Essex County
Archivist — except my own personal details of the Conveyance of the Titles which are in
the custody of the National Westminster Bank Ltd., London, N.W.2.
At the time of the conveyance — 29/7/65 — various documents were provided
to prove ownership and these included:— Abstract of Title of Sir Thomas Cospatric
Spencer-Smith, Baronet 23-9-1904; various extracts of the Will of Sir Charles Cunliffe
Smith, Baronet, who died 31/7/1905, as well as a Statutory declaration made by Wm. C.
Green (Bailiff of Suttons Estate). The Titles were conveyed by Suttons (Stapleford) Ltd.
The Solicitors acting for the Vendors were Messrs. Theodore Goddard & Co., and for
H. M. Scott — Messrs. W. R. Bennett, Emanuel & Co.
All records of the Manors were checked by the well-known expert on Manorial matters —
Mr. John L. Beaumont of Coggeshall, Essex, and the change of title formally registered
with the Historical Manuscripts Commission and the Essex County Archivist.
Documents pertaining to the Manors of Stanford Rivers and Traceys and Bellhouse
These are lodged by the previous owners with the Essex County Archivist at the Essex
Records Office, Chelmsford.
Stanford Rivers
| Court Rolls | 12 x D/DP.M1127-39 | 1566-1773 |
| Drafts | 1 x M1140 | 1560-1600 |
| Rentals | 5 x M1145-7 | 1678-1774 |
| Perambulation | 1 x M1141 | C1770 |
Stanford Rivers & Bellhouse & Traceys
| (A) (1) Court Roll | 1 x M1126 | 1535-1540 |
| (2) ” | 1587-1590 |
Stanford Rivers & Traceys
| (B) Court Roll | 1 x M1130 | 1659-1663 |
Stanford Rivers & Traceys & Bellhouse
| (C) Court Book | 1 x D/DTcM3 | 1827-1923 |
The above remain the property of the person or persons who lodged them with the
Record Office — but the Lord of the Manor has the right to inspect and take copies. The
two listed above (reference ‘A’ and ‘B’) were deposited by The Right Hon. Lord Petre.
Lord Petre has expressed his wish that he would not care to have these documents
separated from his family Archives. In the case of Court Book (C) this consideration
of sanctity does not apply. It could be isolated from the others and if required
Messrs. Trotter, Sons & Chapman could be contacted with this end in view.
Documents appertaining to the Manors held and inspected 26/1/67 at the Public Record Office, London
Index of Court Rolls. Ref. C26. Vol. VI(P)
The Duchy of Lancaster — Page 117.
-
Ref. S.C.2. 123/1859.
Book of Reliefs and Fines Paid
(Stanford Rivers) -
Ref. S.C.2. No. 125/1867.
Book of Ingress Fines and Quit Rents
(Stanford Rivers). -
Ref. S.C.2. No. 116/1762.
Court. Stanford Rivers. Date 1534-5 -
Ref. S.C.2. No. 214/36.
Tenants of Stanford Rivers
26 Henry VIII. -
Ref. S.C. 2. 173/81.
One membrane 26 Henry VIII.
The Court of Lady Mary Carey
(Widow), dated 1534-5.
List of Rentals & Surveys
Ref. DL43—Bundle No. 3. No. 25
(7 Manuscripts)
“Detailed Rentals of Stanford and Trases”
dated 9th Year of James 1st (i.e. 1612)
“TRASES” by Thomas Elliott, Esq,
The Bayliff.
To:—George Goodwinne of Toothill Crofte — Land.
Thomas Tayleford — Land.
John Finche — Land.
Jeremie Aylett — Tenement and Garden.
Edmund Furley — Tenement and Garden.
Richard Marshall — Cottage and ½ acre.
“STANDFORD RIVERS”
Sir Wm. Aylott, Knt. — Land.
Sir Robert Charles, Knt. — Land.
John Attwood — Land.
John Greene — Land.
Herold (?) Greene — Tenement.
Thomas Greene — Meadows.
List of Documents held at Essex Record Office, Chelmsford, at at September 1967
(inspected by me)
Ref. D/DP M
| M1126 | Court Roll (Traceys) | 1535-7 1587-90 |
| 1127 | St. Rivers | 1560-1600 |
| 1128 | S.R., Traceys & Bellhouse | 1606-1623 |
| 1129 | S.R., Traceys (& Berwicks) | 1625-1659 |
| 1130 | S.R., T & Bell. | 1665-1686 |
| 1132 | ” ” ” | 1688-1709 |
| 1133 | ” ” ” | 1710-1741 |
| 1134 | ” ” ” | 1733-1737 |
| 1135 | ” ” ” | 1744-1755 |
| 1136 | ” ” ” | 1755-1759 |
| 1137 | ” ” ” | 1761-1762 |
| 1138 | ” ” ” | 1766 |
| 1139 | ” ” ” | 1771-1773 |
| 1140 |
Court Papers, Minutes, Verdicts, Surrenders, Original presentments, Petition of poor Blacksmith to Queen for land to build forge and consequent grant, bearing autograph of Eliza. I 1576 |
1576-1615 |
| 1141 |
Court Papers, including Draft of case for Counsels opinion on Lord of Manor’s fishing rights under original conveyance of Manor to Petre family and notes of evidence of local inhabitants in dispute over bounds and waste of Manor |
1770 |
| 1142 | Court Papers | 1707-1790 |
| 1143 | Abstract of Court Rolls | 1560, 1600 & 1622 |
| 1144/1 | Minute Book | 1766 |
| 1144/2 | ” ” | 1770 |
| 1145 | Rental, giving names of Tenants and properties and acreages | 1678 |
| 1146 | ditto | 1714 |
| 1147 |
Court Papers, including Rentals 1768-1772, giving names of Tenants, occupiers, and properties and brief perambulation of S. Rivers stating that Parish and Manor as coterminous |
1762-1774 |
| 1148 | Receipt for Crown (Duchy of Lancaster) Rent Stanford Rivers | 1623-1626 |
Further list of Manorial Documents inspected by me at the Record Office, Chelmsford, in October, 1967
No. D/DP.T.167/1
Grant of Annuity of £16 to Pocock and wife by Sir Thomas Elliott of Stanford
Rivers in the reign of King James I.— dated 26/6/1617.
D/DP.167/2.
Indenture given by Sir Thomas Elliott to Thomas Swift and Thomas Byrd,
dated 3/2/1617.
D/DP.T/167/3.
Indenture given by Sir Wm. Petre to Alice Caldwell of London.
dated 9/3/1656.
D/DP.T.167/4.
Settlement of Stanford Hall to Mr. John Dawlin for £1,000. 4/12/1661
(In the Reign of King Charles II by Wm. Petre (also jointly to Mr. Charles Clifford—or Wilford.)
Also copy of above under Ref. D/DPT.167/5.
D/DPT.167/8.
Release of Stanford Hall by Wm. Petre and John Petre. 4/12/1674.
D/DPT.167/9.
Indenture of Stanford Rivers to William Brent. 13/2/1677.
D/DPT.167/10.
Receipt given by Wm. Brent Esquire 1667.
Ref. D/DPT/167/11.
Receipt for £100 by John Petre for Samuel Lindo (or Hinde) of London.
1667.
D/DPT/167/12.
Receipt dated 15/2/1677 by Wm. Petre of Stanford Rivers of £1,000 of lawful
money of England from Samuel Lindo (or Hinde) of London.
D/DPT/167/13.
Release to Sir John Bennett dated 19/5/1681. (In reign of King Charles II).
D/DPT/167/14.
Receipt dated 19/5/1681 by Mr. Lindo (or Hinde) for £2,480 from Sir John Bennett.
D/DPT/167/15.
Receipt signed by Wm. Petre to Sir John Bennett for £502—dated 19/5/1681.
D/DPT/167/16.
Mortgage dated 23/12/1624 (In reign of King James I) between Arnold Squib
of the Parish of St. Andrews, Holborn, Christopher Cuiss of the Parish of St.
Martin in the Fields—and William Petre of Stanford Rivers, and the Right Honourable,
John, Baron of Ossulton in the County of Middlesex.
D/DPT/167/17.
Receipt by Wm. Petre of Stanford Rivers to the Rt. Honourable, John, Lord
Ossulton for £2,500.
D/DPT/167/18.
Duplicate of above.
D/DPT/167/21.
Wm. Petre to Mr. Jacob Houblon.
Security for £300 dated 20/9/1723.
D/DPT/167/23.
Agreement for lease of Pasture land, etc.
D/DPT/167/24.
ditto.
D/DPT/167/19.
ditto.
D/DPT/167/20.
ditto.
D/DPT/167/22.
Conveyance and Settlement of the Bellhouse Estate by Wm. Petre to Thomas
Bramston Esquire and others dated 19/9/1743.
(In reign of George II (Thomas Bramston of Skroons (?) Essex, and Francis Risdon).
D/DTc/M3
Book—dated August 1827 and onwards to 1923. The General Court Baron and
Customary Court of Judith Smith (Spinster)—Lady of the Manors of Stanford Rivers and Bellhouse.
Extracts:—Note of Lease to John Corder of a parcel of waste land on N.W.
side of road from the Green Man Inn at Toot Hill to the Church.
Tenants and Residents mentioned include—John Mayes, John Radley,
Sarah Bayley, Wm. Noake, John Knight, Rbt. Nightingale, Stephen Jones,
Henry Mott, Peter Brewster, Rev. Edward Dowdeswell (Rector) and
James Windus (Steward) 1830.
Court of 12/1/1833.
William Phillips (Farmer), John Lewis of Bobbingworth, Jonathon Stokes of
Stanford Rivers (Farmer), Timothy Phillips of Littlebury Farm and Joseph Clark
of Navestock (James Windus—Steward).
The Lord of the Manors of Stanford Rivers and Bellhouse 10/10/1889.
Sir Charles Cunliffe Smith of Suttons.
Mention of names:
Henry Ralph Kynaston and Kynaston Price and of meadow land known as
Hallingford Hose, Baynes, Tymonds, Hallingford Mead—and Littlebury Windmill.
Court Rolls.—15/3/1904.
Mary Nicholass, Samuel Flanders, Michael Connoly, Ellen Low, wife
of Robert William Low of Stanford House.
(Steward—Raymond D. Trotter).
Court Roll—17/9/1905.
Mary Lewis, Thomas Agg, Laura Wright, Mrs. Ridgwell, Mrs. Burling
and G. Monk of Brook Cottages.
Court Roll—1/9/1920.
Charlotte Jane Godson of 30, King Henrys Road, Hampstead (Widow)
a Copyhold Tenant of this Manor, in consideration of the sum of £300
paid by Henry Wm. Millbank of Wealds Farm, Toot Hill sublet a
Tenement with 7 acres of arable land and 2 acres of meadow, also
Longfield and Browns (both Parcels of land)—also Burrows.
The last Entry of Court Book—dated 26/6/1923 shows that Francis
Currey and Wm. Chisenhale-Marsh surrendered Colliers Hatch Farm to
the Lord of the Manor for the sum of £50.
Other sundry Manorial Documents are D/DPF/257—263 and D/DPF/256 (1—13)
including the Marriage Settlement of Wm. Petre dated 6/4/1722.
Further Deeds kept at The Essex Record Office, include:
D/DSd.T.15-19 (No. 81) 1693-1822.
The Manors of Stanford Rivers, Traceys, Bellhouse, alias Bellows, Manor and Farm
of Stanford Hall, Mansion house with adjoining farms called Bellhouse, Morrells,
Hollingfords, Steels, Gibbs and Gays, with abstracts of title.
Sale particulars with Map (1814), conveyance of part of Glebe lands 1804.
D/DSd.T.20
Fee Farm rent issuing out of Manors and farms of Stanford Hall, Traceys,
Bridges, etc., with abstract of title from 1672 and correspondence 1826 (No. 5).
D/DSd.T.21
Freemans Farm at Toot Hill with marginal map in Deed of 1827 (messuages
called Dawes, Dowsetts, Smythes, Macers and house where Blacks (alias Blakes)
formerly stood, cottage called Rolls, four cottages called Groves (alias Clarkes)
with messuage and windmill at Toot Hill and several cottages at Little End,
Will of John Corder, Cornfactor. (No. 32 1750-1827).
D/DSd.T.22
Cottage called Rolls at Toot Hill, formerly copyhold of Manor of Stanford
Rivers, Traceys and Bellhouse (No. 15).
D/DSd.T.23
Messuages called Blacks (alias Blakes), Dowsetts, Seaselands, Appletons, Smyths
and Cesslands. Messuage called Macers copyhold of the Manor of Stanford
Rivers. Sale particulars of Blakes 1848. Deed of 1827 has marginal map of
Blakes, Dowsetts, Smyths, Macers and Appletons. 1651, 1774-1848 (No. 39).
D/DSd.T.24
Farm called Cesslands and closes called Seaselands 1657-1823 (No. 21).
D/DSd.T.25
Farms called Stewards, Colliers Hatch, etc. 1718-1793 (No. 15).
D/DSd.T.26
Freehold lands called Millers Meads (alias Mill House Mead), Mow Croft and
Nicholls lands, Makyns Garden, copyhold of the Manor of Stanford Rivers.
1749-1862 (No. 52).
D/DSd.T.57
Messuage called Sherlocks (alias Lucks), part Freehold and part copyhold,
Inventory of stock and household goods - 1615. Copy of Deed of 1513 mentions
lane called Lovelles and messuage called Water Pygges, near “Hatherstreete”.
1513, 1607-1843. (No. 71).
D/DSd.T.28.
Two cottages, copyhold of Manor of Stanford Rivers, with Sale particulars
1853. 1808—1853 (No. 8).
D/DSd.T.29.
Mitchells Farm—1794 (No. 1).
D/DSd.T.30.
Part of West Mead—1804 (No. 2).
D/DSd.F.3.
Accounts and receipts for work done at Bellhouse.
Solicitors A/C. with Miss Judith Smith upon purchase of estate of Bellhouse,
particulars of the estate, copy of quit-rents received (1817—1820) of the
Manors of Stanford Rivers, Traceys and Bellhouse.
(Gives Tenants names only).
1 Bundle—1820—1823.
Sundry Documents at Chelmsford Record Office
D/P.140.
Registrar of Baptisms, Births and Marriages 1538—1599. Transcript on paper
made 1583. Copy on Parchment in 1599—used as “Parish Book”. Includes
Churchwardens’ Accounts 1601—1664. Summarised Parish Accounts 1670—1674.
Apportionment of liability for repairs to Churchyard for 1624. Form of Certificate
to be given to a Vagrant C. 1598. Note of dispute over boundary with Greensted
1598. Notes of Charitable gifts and other distributions 1584—1724. Baptisms,
Births and Marriages 1558—1744, Baptisms and Births 1775—1802, Marriages
1754—1775. Baptisms and Births 1803—1812, Marriages 1776—1812.
(Transcript of above T/R67).
Churchwardens A/cs.
Rates 1853-1865 (2 Vols.).
Bills 1809-1878.
Estimates for repairs to Church 1854/5.
Vestry Minutes 1724-1839. 4 Vols.
Overseers Accounts 1807-9, 1828, 1826, 1848-1884. (6 Vols.).
Miscellaneous. Coal Club A/c’s.
1865-1876.
As well as the above documents, various Pamphlets, Letters, Sale Notices and
Biographies which can be inspected at Chelmsford include:—
“The Churches of Stanford Rivers” by J. H. Round; “St. Margarets Church”
by R. C. Earle; “Sermons preached to Parishioners in Stanford Rivers 1677”
by R. Gibbs. Mr. P. F. R. Sparrow — Letter to the Bishop of Rochester, with
correspondence between himself and the Rector of Stanford Rivers (Rev. H. Tattam)
on his receiving notice to quit his Curacy in 1858.
Sale Catalogues:
1) Bellhouse Mansion and Manor of Bellhouse, Traceys, etc., 1814.
2) Blakes Farm 1848.
3) Little Colemans 1924.
5) New House Farm 1859.
Biographies: The Bull Family, C. Gibbs, R. Mainwaring, R. Montague,
Wm. Petre (died 1699), H. Tattam, I. Taylor, and R. Vaughan.
Maps
A number of old maps show the village — including Ogilby & Morgan 1678,
Joannes Blaeu 1645, Chapman & Andre 1777, John Norden 1594.
Article · 3 of 4
Stanford Rivers by H. M. Scott (Part 3): The History of the Manors of Stanford Rivers
THE HISTORY OF THE MANORS
Lords of the Manors
Former Residents of the Manors
The Story of the Manors of Stanford Rivers, Traceys, Bellhouse, including the former sub-Manors of Littlebury, Berwicks, Stanford Park etc
THIS STORY, covering as it does a number of interwoven estates with different owners during the same periods may be found most confusing to my readers. It will be seen that although the area now consists of only three Manors, in earlier years certain estates within these were important enough to be treated as Manors and their owners or tenants were entitled to be “lords”. With this in mind I propose to deal firstly with the Manor of Stanford Rivers and later revert back to the others. This may lead to some repetition and I intend to be as brief as possible. A complete and serious history can be studied by consulting The Victoria History of the County of Essex (Vol IV) which will be found in all large Public Libraries.
STANFORD — probably so named from a stone ford over the River Roding. It is known that the Romans raised pavements on many rivers in Britain in order to make shallow crossings and thus save bridge building. Little is known regarding pre-Conquest times but the “Essex Review” (Vol 13) dated 1904 mentions a local field, “Danesfield”, and the tradition of a battle thereabouts suggesting the presence of the Danes.
In 1042, during the time of Edward the Confessor, the main Manor (9 Hides) was held by Lewin; Aluric and Brictwin held 20 acres and another free man held 40 acres.
LITTLE STANFORD (1 Hide and 80 acres) was held by Ingelric the Priest and the father of Aluric. This area can possibly be identified with the later sub-Manor of Littlebury.
In 1066 all the estates were held by Earl Eustace of Boulogne — Lord of Angre (Ongar) who was the brother-in-law of King Edward and they were then valued at £24. In 1086 the value had increased to £40. The Domesday distinguishes between Great and Little Stanford but this distinction later disappeared. The Earl’s grand-daughter, Maud married King Stephen (formerly Stephen Blois) and thus the estates passed into Royal hands. The King’s son, William, Earl of Montaigne and Surrey granted the estates in 1156 to Richard de Lucy (together with Ongar etc.) for services rendered at the battle of Falaise against the Duke of Anjou. The ownership continued in the de Lucy family and finally descended to Maud de Lucy who was given in marriage by King John in 1213 to Richard de Riparis (Rivers). Maud de Rivers died in 1243. During the ownership of the de Rivers family the estates were split and granted to various families. Here the confusion commences! Although the de Rivers family held the Manors until early in the 14th century, various portions were leased for given periods. In 1300 John de Rivers leased the Manor of “Stanford without the park” to Fulk of St. Edmunds and his son and on the same date he granted the Manor of Stanford Park to Humphrey de Walden for life. After this Stanford Park became known as Ongar Park. The Manor of Stanford Rivers was granted by John de Rivers in 1308 to Richer de Refham, citizen and alderman of London “to hold for life and two years after life”. In 1309 this grant was converted into a “tenancy in fee”. In 1313 de Refham granted it to his son, John, who, in 1314 granted it to John de Gras and Pauline, his wife. In 1334 John, son of John de Rivers released all his rights in the Manor to Pauline, widow of John de Gras. In 1348 Pauline de Gras granted it to Ralph, Baron (later Earl of) Stafford.
On the death in 1460, of Humphrey Stafford 1st Duke of Buckingham, the Manor passed to the Duke’s 3rd son John, Earl of Wiltshire who died in 1473. On his widow’s death the Manor passed to Edward Stafford, Earl of Wiltshire and on his death in 1499 to Edward Stafford, third Duke of Buckingham.
After the Duke’s execution and attainder the estates passed to the Crown. In 1524 King Henry VIII granted them to Wm. Carey and his wife Mary—née Boleyn, (please see “The Carey family” for other interesting details). Records show that Mary Carey held a Manorial Court in 1534, but later the Manor reverted to the Crown and it was controlled by Crown Stewards from 1544-1547.
In 1548 the Manor(s) were given to Princess (later Queen) Mary. In 1557 the main Manor was annexed by Letters Patent to the Duchy of Lancaster and remained in the Duchy’s hands until 1613 when James I sold it to Richard Cartwright and Thomas Cowley of London. A fee-farm rent was apparently retained by the Crown. In 1614 Cartwright and Cowley conveyed the Manor to Henry Spiller and Alexander Williams, who in 1619 sold it to Sir Thomas Elliott Kt. In 1623 Sir Thomas sold to Wm. 2nd Baron Petre. In 1628 Baron Petre settled the estate on his 3rd son, William as a jointure for his daughter-in-law Lucy. At this time the Petre family acquired all the Manors and sub-Manors in the area, except Littlebury, and the Stanford Rivers branch of the family made the Mansion of Bellhouse their home. The estate then comprised of 1600 acres. In 1645 Parliament granted the Estates to the Earl of Essex due to Wm. Petre’s adherence to Charles I, (Essex died 1646). Wm. Petre, however, continued to live at Bellhouse and use a portion of the estate—the rest was administered by a member of the committee formed to run the estates of delinquents. In 1653 Wm. Petre regained possession of the whole property. It appears that he never lost the control of the Manor Court, as the Court Rolls of 1647—1660 show him as Lord of the Manor. He died in 1677 and was succeeded by his son William (See Notes on Petre family). William Petre II succeeded to the Manor and died in 1686 and the estates descended to his son, William (III). In 1727 the administration of Stanford Rivers was handed over to his kinsman, Robert (Baron Petre) who died in 1742. William Petre died in 1745 and his nephew John became his heir.
In 1747 a Receiver was appointed in Chancery to administer the estate but apparently John Petre assumed control in 1748 and remained so until his death in 1762. From that year until 1775 the estate was administered by a Steward for John Tempest, the Executor of John Petre’s Will. During this period the whole estate was leased to various farmers and smallholders. In 1775 it was conveyed to Lord Petre as guardian of his second son, The Hon. George William Petre. In 1791/3 it was encumbered to the extent of £9,750, plus substantial other mortgages. In 1796 part of the estate was sold to Charles Smith of Suttons in Stapleford Tawny for £7,650 and in 1797 George Wm. Petre died leaving the remainder to his son, George. In 1819 George Petre sold all his property within the Manor to Judith Smith (formerly of Stratford, Essex) for £25,280. Judith Smith was Lady of the Manor until 1830, when the Lordship (and the estate) passed to her nephew, Sir Charles Joshua Smith, Bart. (Son of the above mentioned Charles Smith). On his death in 1831 the 1350 acre estate passed to Augusta Smith and in 1838 to Sir Charles Cunliffe Smith, Bart.—the grandson of the original purchaser. From that date it descended with the Baronetcy until 1955 when on the death of the 6th Baronet, Sir Thomas Cospatric Smith, it was administered by his executors and the various farms were sold by them and the Estate finally broken up. In 1965 the incorporeal titles of the three manors of Stanford Rivers, Traceys and Bellhouse were disposed of to Harold Montague Scott, Esq., of London. Although this ends the story of the landed owners of the Manors, reference to the list of Lords of the Manors—given later—and to the details of the lives and background of some of the most important ones will be found of great interest.
THE MANOR OF TRACEYS
TRACEYS was so named from a family of that name. Although I am giving below certain details of its history, it must be remembered that—as with Bellhouse, Littlebury, Berwicks its story is from time to time interwoven with that of the paramount Manor of Stanford Rivers. In 1268 John de Tracey and Margery, his wife, conveyed land at Stanford Rivers to William de Tracey at a nominal rent. The tenement was held of the Earl of Stafford by service of a pair of Spurs of the value of 6d and an annual rental of 1lb. of pepper. In 1315 Hugh de Tracey and his sister Agnes conveyed to Margery (probably their widowed mother), one messuage, one carucate of land, 25 acres of meadow, 50 acres of wood, 40 acres of pasture and 50/- rent. In 1325 a settlement was made on Margery de Tracey of the lands with 14 cows and 14 heifers—with Remainder to Thomas de Tracey and his wife, Mabel and to Thomas’s heirs. By 1335 both Thomas and Mabel had died leaving a young son, James. Until James came of age in 1348, Edward III granted the custody of the land to Mabel Fitzwaryn, a damsel of Queen Phillipa.
It seems that James de Tracey died in the “Black Death” (1347—1350) and the property went to his kinsman, Hugh de Tracey and later to John de Rivers and some years later to the Stafford family. In 1372, the Manor, with 240 acres of arable, 20 acres of meadow and 64 acres of wood was held by Sir Hugh Stafford. In 1412 it appears to have been leased to Nicholas Bradshagh (see “Stanford Hall”) and to have been valued at £20. In 1415 Sir Hugh, jointly with his wife Elizabeth demised to John Tyrell and others. In 1420 the Manor was held by Humphrey Stafford, Duke of Buckingham who was slain at the Battle of Northampton.
Although, as with the other “sub-manors”, Traceys has, since the middle of the 14th century, followed the same ownership as Stanford Rivers, it has had different tenants from time to time. In 1543 a 21 year lease was granted to Richard Elliott (see “Berwick”) at £15 per annum. The Elliotts farmed Traceys for a number of years and we find documents in The Public Record Office (London) showing Thomas Elliott as “Bayliff of Trases” in 1612. In 1738 and in 1768 records show that the Petre family leased to John Shuttleworth for £156 per annum (£42 Land Tax and £10 for repairs was deducted). In 1839 Hale’s Survey of Stanford Rivers stated “Traceys Farm—belonging to Sir Charles Cunliffe Smith, Baronet—in the occupation of Mr. John Palmer. This farm is situate on the northern side of the London Road and to the west of Murrells Farm and is otherwise surrounded by woodlands of the same proprietor. House, and garden 1 acre. Farm buildings, orchard Traceys Mead, Gays wood, Cottage and garden, Gravel pit field, Old House field, Hoppit, etc., 163 acres”. The Tithe award 1842 shows John Palmer as tenant farmer of 162 acres.
Others who have farmed here during the last century include—Thomas Carter 1878, Arthur Hadcock 1886, Thomas W. Duff 1890, John S. Freeman, Jnr., (also “Lawns”) the Land Steward to Sir Charles C. Smith 1890—1928. Mr. James Anthony Green took over the house in 1928 and farmed the land alone until 1969 when he was joined in partnership by his son, Mr. William James Green.
Note: For full details of the present house and up-to-date information see under “The Houses of the Manors”.
THE MANOR OF BELLHOUSE
The story of this Manor really does not need to be set out in full here as it is really already told in that of Stanford Rivers and also by the section covering the former Mansion of Bellhouse. The Mansion being the home of the Stanford Rivers branch of the Petre family further information will also be found under the heading “The Petre family”. As with Traceys, the Manor still officially exists and is legally included in my Title. The land is now mainly incorporated in that of “Murrells”.
THE FORMER MANOR OF BERWICK
(alias “Barwicks”, or “Berewick”)
Since the 15th century this former Manor has been absorbed into, and followed the descent of, that of Stanford Rivers. Its history can be read in my section dealing with Berwick Farmhouse.
THE former MANOR of LITTLEBURY
The main history of this small manor will be found in my story of Littlebury (see “The Houses of the Manor”) and I therefore do not intend to repeat same here, but will merely mention a few interesting details which have come to light since I wrote the story of the house.
In 1767 a dispute arose between John Tempest (the acting Lord of the Capital Manor) and Timothy Graves of Littlebury (Grave’s wife was the daughter of Mrs. Bull).* The dispute concerned certain manorial rights claimed by Graves. The outcome of this dispute is not clear but Graves continued to deny that Littlebury was part of the Manor of Stanford Rivers and a few years later when Lord Petre was administering the Bellhouse estate, there was another quarrel over fishing rights, in the course of which Graves pushed one of Lord Petre’s servants into the River Roding. The legal right of this small estate to claim to the name of Manor seems to have been discontinued about this time.
* See list of Lords of the Manors.
THE LORDS OF THE MANORS
Note. In spite of much research, this list cannot be considered 100% reliable — a few names may be included of major tenants of the Lord of the Capital Manor and who may, or may not, have been legally entitled to hold Courts.
The dates given are approximate only — in the early centuries. It begins with the names of lords of the Capital Manor and is followed by the names of those of the “sub-manors” — here again the accuracy is unfortunately suspect.
| 1042 | Lewin, Brictwin, and Aluric. Ingelric the priest (possibly of Littlebury). |
| 1066 | Eustace, Earl of Boulogne. |
| 1130 | Maud (grand-daughter of Eustace and married to Stephen Blois (King Stephen of England). |
| 1140 | Wm., Earl of Mortaigne and Surrey (Son of King Stephen). |
| 1156 | Richard de Lucy. |
| 1179 | Richard de Lucy — (nephew of above). |
| 1182 | Herbert de Lucy. |
| 1213 | Maud de Lucy (died 1243). Richard de Riparis (Rivers) — husband of Maud de Lucy. |
| 1249 | John de Rivers (created Lord Rivers of Ongar). In 1298 John de Rivers leased the “Manor of Stanford without the Park” to Fulk of St. Edmunds and his son and Stanford Park (later Ongar Park) was leased to Humphrey de Walden. |
| 1300 | John de Rivers (2nd Baron). |
| 1308 | (By lease) Richer de Refham (Manor of Stanford Rivers) (Alderman of London). |
| 1313 | (By lease) John de Refham. |
| 1314 | (By lease) John de Gras (and his wife Pauline). |
| 1334 | John de Rivers released all to Sir John de Gras. |
| 1348 | Lady Pauline de Gras. |
| 1348 | Ralph, Baron Stafford (later 1st Earl). |
| 1373 | Sir Hugh Stafford (part demised to John Tyrell). |
| 1421 | Lady Elizabeth Stafford (widow of Sir Hugh). |
| 1422 | Sir Nicholas Robessart and Lady Elizabeth (see above). |
| 1433 | Humphrey Stafford, 1st Duke of Buckingham. |
| 1460 | John Stafford, Earl of Wiltshire. |
| 1473 | Constance, Countess of Wiltshire. |
| 1475 | Edward Stafford, 2nd Earl of Wiltshire. |
| 1499 | Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham. |
| 1520 | Thomas Brynning (Bellhouse). |
| 1521 | The Crown — under Henry VIII. |
| 1524 | Wm. Carey (and Mary his wife) (granted by Henry VIII). |
| 1528 | Mary Carey (sister of Ann Boleyn) and Richard Turbervyle (Bellhouse). |
| 1536 | The Crown. |
| 1544—1547 | Stewards of the Crown. |
| 1548 | Princess (later Queen Mary). |
| 1557—1613 | The Duchy of Lancaster. |
| 1613 | James I sold to Richard Cartwright and Thomas Cowley. |
| 1614 | Henry Spiller and Alexander Williams. |
| 1619 | Sir Thomas Elliott, Kt. |
| 1623 | William, 2nd Baron Petre. |
| 1628 | William Petre (son of above) — all Manors except Littlebury). |
| 1645 | The Crown — temporarily granted to the Earl of Essex. |
| 1647 | Wm. Petre name quoted in Court Rolls as Lord of Manor. |
| 1653 | Wm. Petre regained full control. |
| 1677 | Wm. Petre II. |
| 1686 | Wm. Petre III. |
| 1727 | Administered by Robert, Baron Petre on behalf of Wm. Petre IV. |
| 1734 | Wm. Petre IV. |
| 1745 | John Petre (died 1762). |
| 1762—1775 | Administered by steward of John Tempest, the executor of John Petre’s will. |
| 1775 | 9th Baron (Robert) Petre as Guardian of the Hon. George William Petre (the Baron’s son). |
| 1797 | George Petre (II). |
| 1819 | Judith Smith. |
| 1830 | Sir Charles Joshua Smith, 2nd Baronet. |
| 1838 | Sir Charles Cunliffe Smith, 3rd Bart. |
| 1905 | Sir Drummond Cunliffe Smith (4th Bart.). |
| 1947 | Sir Drummond Cospatric Smith (5th Bart.). |
| 1955 | Sir Thomas Cospatric Smith (6th Bt.). |
| 1959—1965 | Administered by the Executors of above. |
| 1965 | Harold Montague Scott. (of London). |
The Lords of Bellhouse (see Stanford Rivers).
The Lords of Berwick (see Berwick Farmhouse).
Littlebury and Rowenho
| 1260—1355 | Robert de Montenay and his descendants. |
| 1355 | Richard de Salynge. |
| 1398 | Richard Salynge (II). |
| 1405 | Mrs. John Bromhale (widow of R. Salynge II). |
| 1500—1600 | The Salynge family. |
| 1600—1729 | The Atwood family. |
| 1729 | Mrs. Bull. |
| 1767 | John Tempest — acting as Executor of John Petre. At this period Littlebury lost its status as a separate Manor. |
The Lords of the Manor of Traceys
| 1066 | Eustace, Earl of Boulogne. |
| 1268 | Approx. John de Tracey held of Earl of Stafford. |
| 1268 | Wm. de Tracey. |
| 1315 | Hugh de Tracey. Margery de Tracey. |
| 1325 | Thomas de Tracey. |
| 1335 | James de Tracey (a Minor) — Edward III granted temporary custody of land to Mabel Fitzwaryn. |
| 1350 | Hugh de Tracey (Tenant of Ralph, Earl of Stafford). |
| 1372 | Sir Hugh Stafford. |
| 1412 | Leased to Nicholas Bradsagh (see Stanford Hall). |
| 1415 | John Tyrell (Tenant). |
| 1420 | Humphrey Stafford, Duke of Buckingham — and thereafter as per Stanford Rivers. |
Former residents in the Manors
The names below are some of those who lived here during the 17th and 18th centuries and whose Wills can be seen at the Essex Record Office. Please note, however, that the inclusion of any of the names which follow does not mean that they are not specifically mentioned elsewhere in this Work.
| Richard Atterbury — Edge Tool Smith | 1681 |
| Margaret Ballard | 1639 |
| Richard Ballard — Yeoman | 1651 |
| Wm. Barrows | 1628 |
| John Bines — Husbandman | 1662 |
| Wm. Byrd — Yeoman | 1631 |
| Mary Carter | 1713 |
| George Carter — Yeoman | 1631 |
| Lawrence Clarke — Yeoman | 1663 |
| Thomas Clarke — Yeoman | 1682 |
| Anthony Convers | 1623 |
| Robert Dent — Gentleman | 1706 |
| Reynold Elkins — Carpenter | 1626 |
| Mary Finch — Widow | 1664 |
| Richard Finch — Yeoman | 1627 |
| Thomas Finch — Yeoman | 1670 |
| Matthew Glasscock — Yeoman | 1627 |
| Richard Glasscock | 1624 |
| Thomas Glasscock — Yeoman | 1677 |
| George Holgate — Yeoman | 1632 |
| Wm. Lake — Gentleman | 1646 |
| John Mann — Gentleman | 1660 |
| John Myles | 1684 |
| Anne Petre — Widow (149 ER 25) | 1688 |
| Anne Petre — Widow (117 ER 26) | 1692 |
| Thomas Pierce — Weaver | 1647 |
| Matthew Playle — Yeoman | 1705 |
| Samuel Playle — Yeoman | 1712 |
| Wm. Steel — Bricklayer | 1686 |
| John Stace — Whip Maker | 1677 |
| John Traps — Miller | 1691 |
| Thomas Tuke — Gentleman | 1645 |
| Thomas Valentyne — Butcher | 1673 |
| Richard Westwood — Poulterer | 1633 |
| Richard Westwood — Yeoman | 1679 |
Some Former Residents during the 19th and 20th Centuries
1830 A list of Freeholders who had the right to vote included:— E. Dowdeswell, D.D. (Rector); Charles Dallady, John Ging, Stephen Jones, Edward Luck, Wm. Noak, Thomas Nicholls, John Ray, Edward Rayner, Jonathan Stokes, John Stallibrass, Isaac Taylor, Wm. West, and Wm. Wilson.
Various Directories such as Pigots, Wm. White’s, and Kelly’s, have yielded the following:—
1832 Isaac Taylor — Gentleman; Edward Sammes — Grocer and Carpenter.
1845 Thomas H. Sadler — Miller.
1848 Thomas Oldham (Berwicks), J. Palmer (Traceys), Henry Pavitt, Matthew Playle, Smith and Rayner, John Stallibrass (Ongar Park), Jonathan Stokes, Rev. R. Waller, Isaac Ward, Mary Waterhouse, Edward Garrett and James Sharp (Shoemakers), Michael Connolly and George Vale (Shopkeepers), Charles Carter (Butcher), John Halls (Cornmiller), John Mott (Carpenter), Wm. Mott (Cattle Salesman), Wm. Rayner (Bricklayer), Wm. Pavitt (Wheelwright), Henry Rudd (Blacksmith).
1855 John and Edmund Allen (Farmers), Charles and John Baker (Farmers), Mrs. Mary Baker (Farmer), John Barnard (Beer retailer and Farmer), Augustus Berkeley (Farmer), Wm. C. Clark (Farmer), John Freeman (Cattle Dealer), Mrs. Mary Jennings Farmer), John Mansfield (Farmer and Surveyor of Roads), Moore (Miller), William Wilson (Shopkeeper).
1863 Wm. White’s directory is quite comprehensive and includes many names of residents already included above, or elsewhere in various sections of this book:— Mrs. S. Baker, Mrs. Mary Barton, Thomas Carter, John Cheer, Wm. Docwra, James Fitch, John Haride, James Noakes, John Palmer, Thomas Thorogood, Mrs. C. Waters, Mrs. M. Waters (all listed as Farmers). John Mitson and Jesse Wakeling (Shopkeepers), John Redington (Cornmillers), Henry Rudd (Blacksmith), Rev. John Pound Smith (Curate), John and Wm. Stane (Carpenters), George Ives (Shoemaker).
1867 Wm. Buer (Farmer), Wm. Willson (Harness Maker).
1871 John Owers (Baker) Toot Hill.
1878 Mrs. Sarah Edwards (Shopkeeper), John Wilson (Beer retailer), Josiah Piggott (Beer retailer and Steam Threshing Machine Proprietor), Wm. Read (Shoemaker of Toot Hill), James Tucker (Hay carter).
1886 Mrs. Jane Piggott (Beer retailer of Toot Hill), William Staines (Wheelwright of Toot Hill).
1890 Wm. Berry (Shopkeeper), Joseph Brown (Blacksmith), Wm. Hutchins (Hay Carter), George Lane (Shopkeeper), Mrs. Hannah Surridge (Farmer — see Toot Hill Windmill).
1902 Joseph Downham (Boot and Shoemaker), Daniel Wright (Head Keeper to Sir Charles Smith), Alfred G. Hadley (Beer retailer), John Mumford (Farmer), Wm. Scarrott (Head Gamekeeper at Ongar Park Wood), Julian Plummer (Farmer).
1910 Wm. N. Jarvis (Surveyor to Ongar R.D.C.), A. E. Seymour (Shopkeeper), Henry Tucker (Farmer), Robert W. Tyrrell (Blacksmith), Frederick Welch (Beer retailer).
1912 Francis Moore (Holly Tree Laundry), Frank Garrett (Bootmaker).
1922 Robert Camp (Blacksmith).
1933 R. W. Heasman of Church Lane, Lewis O. Rowe (Holly Tree), Mrs. Camp (Shopkeeper), Warrington Grigg (Shopkeeper), Mrs. Susan Welch (Beer retailer), John Shepherd (Beer retailer), Messrs. Harrison and Grigg (Stanford Rivers Egg Grading Station), Wm. Woodrow (Headkeeper to Sir D. C. Smith), John Harding, Arthur Licence (Poultry farmer), F. P. K. White of Toot Hill.
1934 Frank Burton (Headkeeper to Sir D. C. Smith), Miss A. Littlefair (District Nurse), H. Woolleston (Woodman), Thomas Licence (Tomato Grower).
(For later and up-to-date list — please see local List of Electors).
Article · 4 of 4
Stanford Rivers by H. M. Scott (Part 4): Life in the Village Past and Present (1973)
LIFE IN THE VILLAGE
- Past and Present
APART FROM the history of the Manors I think it may interest present day readers, as well as future generations, if I place on record the following details which have been compiled from notes and letters received from past and present residents and newspaper cuttings, all of which I have pieced together to give a picture of life in the village.
I will try to describe the village as it might be seen by a visitor today.
Entering the south eastern boundary of the Manor from the London road (A113) we are struck by the truly rural aspect, we see a few scattered cottages, several old and lovely farmhouses and a particularly lovely view — on the right over the valley of the river Roding. On the left we pass Murrells Farm (the site of the former Mansion of Bellhouse) and enter the Little End section of the village. Here we find a mixture of old and new homes dominated by the structure of the old Ongar Union building — now the factory of Piggott Bros. Ltd. We see the one and only tiny village shop and Post Office and enter farmland once more, passing Bridge Farm on the left, and in moments we arrive at the boundary of the Manor at Marden Ash. Just before this, if we were to turn down a lane to the right, we would find the ancient manor house of the former sub-manor of Littlebury and its Mill.
Returning along the London road, we turn right (i.e. N.W.) by the site of the former Congregational Chapel, up Church Lane and pass the present Rectory (a grey brick structure) and then farmland on both sides. We soon see a rather lovely view of St. Margaret’s Church and Stanford Hall Farm ahead. Next to the isolated ancient church, we will see the delapidated Stanford Hall surrounded by farmland. The road here which leads off to the right (known as Mutton Row) is bordered on both sides by farmland and contains a few cottages — a short lane on the left leads us to the charmingly situated Brook Cottage. If we continue up Mutton Row we see the ancient Newhouse Farmhouse (on the left) and on the right, the lovely old house of Clarks Farm and finally reach the “Drill House” P.H. at the border of the Parish of Greensted. In this area the Parish and Manorial boundaries become confusing to the uninitiated, so opposite the Drill House we will turn left, passing Widows Farmhouse on the right and see — on our left — the old and lovely farmhouses of Burrows and Colemans and the ancient cottages at Clatterford End. Continuing, we will shortly notice the newly erected Village Hall and arrive at the Toot Hill section of the parish. Turning to the right here, we shortly return to farmland and, with the aid of a map, find Ongar Park which extends to the boundary of the Parish of North Weald. This area is now spoilt by unsightly Radio Masts and we can only imagine how glorious it must have been in the days when Ongar Park Hall was occupied by its fabulously wealthy owners in the 18th century. Nearby, we will find Cold Hall which shows evidence of its past glory and beauty. Returning to Toot Hill, we cannot fail to notice the farmhouses “Wealds” and “Steers” and the “Green Man” P.H. If we continue straight on we will pass Bugle Cottage, Stewarts Farmhouse and the pretty old farmhouse “Blakes” and see the site of the former Parish School which is now occupied by a gipsy encampment. We will notice the ruins of the former school drinking fountain on the edge of the road.
We should now retrace our steps towards Toot Hill and arriving at the small triangle of common land “Stewarts Cross” we turn left down Epping road — the first portion of which is fairly well populated. On the left we will see Freemans Farm and nearly opposite the old farmhouse of “Does”. Opposite Does, we turn left down a narrow lane known as “Nickerlands” and bordered by woodland which leads down to Berwick Lane and finally to the main London road at the farmhouse of “Lawns”. For the sake of brevity I have not included certain side roads, Blake Hall road and railway station, part of Berwick lane and its lovely Berwick farmhouse, etc.
Stanford Rivers, to those who do not know its past history and its present charming and interesting residents would seem to be a dull village. A passer-by might get this impression and this is due to the fact that it has no central focal point. The majority of villages are centred around a church, shop or shops, village hall, public house, and sometimes a common or playing field. Here we find a very scattered population, divided into two distinct areas and residents who must go to the nearest towns for the main shopping requirements and entertainments. (Chipping Ongar is two miles from Little End). Thanks to the untiring endeavours of a number of kindly residents, great efforts are made to entertain and occupy the spare time of the young and old. The Women’s Institute, the Horticultural Society, the Cricket Club, the Brownie Pack, and the Church are just a few which play their part. The Planning Authorities are strict, and building permission is hard to obtain, so we have every hope that the area will retain its present appearance for many years to come.
Further sundry notes — Toot Hill now has no shop, no post office, no train service after 9.30 p.m., and a very limited Omnibus Service. The nearest golf course is at Theydon Mount. Good angling is to be found on the river Roding.
There is no gas supply. Electricity was first supplied to the Parish in 1951. Parts of the area had water mains earlier in the present century, but the supplies were increased in 1949.
In August 1973, local residents complained that improvements were being made to major roads but insufficient attention was being given to the maintenance of certain minor ones. The Village can boast of one garage for petrol supplies and repairs — this is situated on the main road at Little End.
1973. The Village continues its comparatively uneventful rural life. The passing motorist sees little of interest and is naturally quite unaware of the many interesting features revealed by my story of its past. The farmers continue their valuable work — the old houses (with the exception of Stanford Hall) are well preserved and internally tastefully modernised. A few new houses and bungalows have recently been added but generally the original atmosphere still prevails.
The Rector and the leading families — the Millbanks, the Triggs, the Hinmans, the Griggs and the Pearls (to name just a few), do their best to cement the village population, both old and young, together. It is certain that the new Village Hall at Toot Hill will help to foster community life.
The telephone service came to the parish in 1926.
Brick making was carried out for many years in the area near where North Weald Station now stands and records show that the works existed in 1871.
Earlier days in the Village
So much can be gleaned from the other sections of this Work that I feel I need not elaborate too much on this subject.
The fact that a Roman road passed through Ongar Park and the recent discovery of Roman Pottery at Traceys Farm proves that there were some Roman settlers in the area.
In the Middle Ages the local occupation was mainly agriculture — the inhabitants mostly grew their own produce, publicans brewed their own beer, the blacksmith and the shoemaker had their smallholdings and naturally the clergyman had his Glebe. A certain amount of spinning was carried on. Any necessities not produced at home could easily be obtained from the nearby market at Chipping Ongar, so a shopkeeper could hardly expect to make a livelihood.
The villagers looked to the Lord of the Manor for guidance and help and were to a certain extent, dependant on his whims — although from the 11th to the 16th century, the lords of the Capital Manor do not appear to have actually resided in the Manor.
The year 1700 saw the development of dairy farming and by 1750 quite large farms, such as Burrows, with 200 acres were devoted to it.
In 1708 the average weekly wage of a farm labourer was 6/- but by 1750 this rose to 7/- and in some cases to as much as 8/-. Building workers, Carpenters and Plumbers commanded wages of 10/- to 13/- and this was sometimes augmented with a daily pint of strong beer. In the 18th century the villagers must have looked to their Lord of the Manor at his Mansion of Bellhouse for any sight of the “highlife” and in the 19th and early part of the 20th centuries, to the Smith family at nearby “Suttons”. The local “gentry” must have enlivened the village by the Hunting, Shooting and Skating activities.
Within living memory (this was written in 1970) a Village Fair was held annually on June 1st on “Sharpe’s Green” (probably Stewarts Cross”) and there were swings, roundabouts and other amusements.
A further idea of life in the Village during the early part of the present century can be gained by perusing the following extracts from the Epping Gazette, from a letter sent me by the late Mr. Edwin Bass, notes sent by Mrs. Alice Carter, Mrs. Nesta Ferguson and Mr. Harry Witham.
The Epping Gazette. 26/1/1901. “An enjoyable Hunt took place. Amongst those seen were — Sir Charles Smith, Bart., Mr. D. Smith, and Mr. Harry Sworder. Hospitality was given by Sir Charles. A March Hare was hunted near Shonks Mill and towards Stanford Rivers and over the stiff bank by the (old) Rectory. It was lost in Ice House Wood.”
“Sir Charles Smith gave his Rent Audit Dinner at the King’s Head, Ongar, on the 19th. Mr. J. Freeman occupied the Vice-Chair.”
“Major Capel Cure’s Rent Audit Dinner was held at the King’s Head, Ongar, on the 8th. Mr. J. Millbank presided.”
16/8/1902. “The Coronation celebrations took place on August 9th. At 3 p.m. a service was held in the Church. Sports took place after tea. Medals were distributed by Sir Charles and Lady Cunliffe Smith. The Committee included the Rector, Messrs. H. Millbank, Mugleston, Sawkins, Harold Thomas, and Lockyer.”
8/11/1902. “An ancient landmark was removed last week when a tree opposite the White Bear was felled. It is believed to be 400 years old, and being hollow inside, was a favourite place for use as a backing for people desirous of being photographed.”
22/11/1902. “A Concert held in the Schoolroom in aid of the new organ fund raised £4-2-6d. Mr. R. C. Hayward played the piano and songs were rendered by Mrs. D. Christy Jnr. and Mr. Van der Gucht.”
16/4/1904. “A meeting of the Cricket Club took place on 7/4/04 at Traceys Farm. Mr. J. S. Freeman presided. The Accounts showed a balance in hand of £1-5-9. Sir Charles Cunliffe Smith was elected President. Rev. Thomas and Mr. Douglas Crossman, J.P. — Vice-Presidents. Mr. H. W. Millbank and Mr. G. Sawkins — Hon. Secretaries.”
16/1/1909. “Stanford Rivers Cricket Club Concert was held on January 6th. Duet by the Misses Pledge, songs by Messrs. King, H. Thomas, Sawkins, Eady, Bingley, Pennington, Miss Browne and Mrs. Johnston. Miss Green gave amusing recitations, as did Miss Pledge and Miss Millbank. A farce was performed, “Uncle John from Yorkshire”. Parts were taken by Misses L. and E. Pledge, Mr. F. W. Murton and Mr. H. W. Millbank. Mr. R. Bingley, the Chairman, thanked all those present. The receipts gave a balance of £8.”
1/5/1909. “The Annual General Meeting of the Stanford Rivers Cricket Club was held at Wayletts. Mr. Dan Wright presided. The Hon. Secy., Mr. F. W. Murton, announced a balance of £8. Sir Drummond Cunliffe Smith, Bart., was elected President.”
In 1913 the Committee of Management of the Coal & Clothing Club consisted of Sir D. Cunliffe Smith, Bart. (Chairman), the Rev. J. I. Thomas, Messrs. C. A. Millbank, R. Waltham, H. Palmer, H. W. Millbank, and G. A. Howgate (Hon. Secy.).
The following notes were made by me during an interesting chat with an elderly resident of the parish — Mr. Harry Witham of 4 London Road, Little End. This information was given me in May 1970. Mr. Witham was born in his present home on June 27th, 1899, and had five brothers and one sister. He and one brother are the only ones now living. His brother formerly worked for Mr. Hinman, but is now in an old people’s home.
“Harry” was taught at the local school by Mr. Howgate and his education ceased when he was 13. Until 1919 he worked for Mrs. Gilbert of Marden Ash and then on the local roads for about 45 years. Since his retirement he has undertaken odd jobs for Mr. Hinman and for the Landlord of the “White Bear”. He has known what it meant to work nine hours a day for six days a week for a tiny wage and had little time to enjoy life. He stated that in his opinion, the most wonderful benefits to the Village were the introduction of running water and of main drainage. He clearly remembers the fire at Stanford Hall in September 1907 and his father helping with the manual fire pump.
Interesting extracts from a letter received from the late Mr. Edwin Bass of 65, London Road, Stanford Rivers — dated 1971.
“I was born at Clatterford End, Toot Hill on October 25th, 1898 and was one of sixteen children. My parents had lived all their lives in the Parish and are buried in the churchyard. My father worked for Mr. Christy of Stanford Hall. Our cottage was lit by candles and oil lamps — water was drawn from a well with a bucket and chain. My parents were very proud to relate that I was the first child to be christened by Rev. Thomas after he became Rector. At school I was taught by Mr. Whitehouse and then by Mr. and Mrs. Howgate. Before going to school and after school, I worked for Mr. George Pledge of Blakes Farm. After leaving school, I also worked for Mr. Crouch of Freemans Farm. I remember the fire at Stanford Hall Farm (1907). I was among the lads who helped pump the horse-drawn Fire Engine — but owing to water shortage, about 20 stacks of wheat were destroyed. As a lad I played cricket at Wayletts. Mr. Johnston help us lads in every way and was very generous.”
The following notes were kindly given me by the organist of St. Margaret’s Church — Mrs. Alice Carter — who now resides at Greensted —
“Thank God for our peaceful countryside around this area! Early in this century there was an Ambulance Station in London Road, Little End. When the wooden hut (the Village Hall) was built at Toot Hill after the 1914-1918 War, a groom from “Blakes” came there to teach us teenagers dancing. Harold Sawkins (the son of a former proprietor of the now closed Toot Hill shop — who baked gorgeous bread) was one of the dancers. The hut was also used for Fancy Dress parties, Whist Drives, etc. and also for the Sunday School. Miss Connie Underwood, the daughter of the Master of the Workhouse, played the church organ and sometimes Miss Adelaide Thomas took over. I think I became the Organist in 1958 or 1959. My daughter, Mr. Armitage and Miss Gwen Reid, also sometimes took over this duty (Miss Reid’s father at one time kept the Toot Hill Shop). I can remember an old shepherd named Turner lived in a cottage at Clatterford End. Opposite him, at No. 5a, lived Mr. Thorogood who worked at Widows Farm. We used to collect our milk from that farm every day. Coal then cost us 2/6d. per cwt. There was a lake at the rear of the “White Bear” where we used to skate. The old Rev. Thomas had a pony and trap — but he also walked miles to visit his flock. Before Messrs. Piggott used the old workhouse it was used as a Tie and Trousers-press factory by a Mr. Heasman — he lived at 115, London Road, where Mr. and Mrs. Cherry now live.
In Mutton Row — going up used to be Rocketts Cottages, now the site of two new bungalows.
I remember the windmill which, before it was destroyed by fire, stood near Clunes House in Mill Lane.”
From correspondence with the elderly Mrs. Nesta Ferguson, I have extracted the following — (Mrs. Nesta Ferguson is the widow of the late Doctor Ferguson, who lived at Bridge Farm House and whose son, John, is now Professor and Dean of the Open University).
“In 1925-1929, Stanford Rivers and Toot Hill had largely independent existences. In 1925, Stanford Rivers had nothing to bring the women together — whereas Toot Hill had its W.I. Feeling the need, we formed our own and I became the President and Mrs. Howgate the Secretary.
I remember that at that time the little village shop and post office at Little End was kept by Mr. and Mrs. Hollingsworth — a most excellent, kindly and helpful couple. When the Congregational Chapel was destroyed by fire (1927), my small son, John, was taken to our windows at Bridge House to watch the flames. Not long before the fire, I had been invited to speak at a meeting there but was unable to do so and my husband took my place. I felt some regret that I had not myself spoken from the pulpit used by Livingstone! Our son started his education at an excellent Kindergarten and Preparatory School at Marden Ash and was taught by a Mrs. Sayer and her daughter.”
SUNDRY CHARITIES
Thomas Petit, who died prior to 1602, left 5/- a year for the poor and for “poor folk’s marriages” to the Parishes of Stanford Rivers and Greensted. It issued from lands in Stanford Rivers. In 1834, the money had not been paid for at least 23 years. The then owner of the land expressed willingness to pay the charge, but there is no further record of the charity being carried on.
William Green by his Will of 1554, devised a rent charge of £2 to 12 poor inhabitants of the parish. In 1786 it is recorded that it had not been paid since 1739.
Mary Rayner (of Greensted) by Will — proved in 1873 — left £400 for the upkeep of her family tomb and for the provision of clothing for the most deserving poor of Stanford Rivers. Although the primary Trust was void by the rule against perpetuities, small sums were spent on the tombstone at various times. In 1950, the income was £10.1s.2d., which, together with the previous year’s balance was enough to give 27 parishioners 10/- each for clothing.
Jessie Matilda Berkeley of Mere, Wilts., by Will, proved in 1930, left £500 in trust for the upkeep of the Graveyard of St. Margaret’s Church and for the benefit of the poor, provided that her family vault was kept in good repair (this condition was made void under the rule concerning perpetuities). The income in 1950 was £50-8-4, all of which was spent on the graveyard.
