Nooks and Corners of Old England Informative Summary

Overview:

This book, “Nooks and Corners of Old England,” written by Allan Fea, takes readers on a captivating journey through the lesser-known and often overlooked beauty of England’s countryside. Fea meticulously documents his travels through various counties, sharing fascinating historical anecdotes, architectural insights, and local legends associated with the places he visits.

From the haunting ruins of Kirby Hall to the stately grandeur of Montacute House, Fea paints vivid pictures of these historic mansions, revealing hidden chambers, secret passages, and the ghosts that allegedly haunt them. He delves into the lives of their former inhabitants, from the tragic Mary Queen of Scots to the infamous Dick Turpin, weaving together a tapestry of human stories that brings history to life.

Key Findings:

The book emphasizes the importance of preserving England’s architectural heritage, highlighting the beauty and historical significance of numerous manor houses and villages.
Fea provides insights into the lives and traditions of ordinary people through anecdotes, local folklore, and ancient customs.
The book showcases the profound impact of historical events on the English landscape and its people, particularly the English Civil War and the reign of Charles II.

Learning:

Readers gain a deeper appreciation for the rich and often forgotten history of England, discovering hidden gems and lesser-known stories behind iconic landmarks and villages.
The book provides insights into English architecture, delving into different styles, periods, and construction techniques, offering an engaging exploration of architectural evolution.
Fea highlights the enduring power of local folklore and tradition, showcasing how these stories preserve a sense of identity and connection to the past.

Historical Context: The book was written in 1908, a period of significant change in England. The Industrial Revolution had transformed the nation’s landscape and economy, and a growing sense of nationalism was fueled by the resurgence of interest in English history and heritage. The book captures this fascination with the past, celebrating England’s rural beauty and its rich history.

Facts:

Cromwell’s presence in Huntingdonshire: While the county is known for its celebration of Cromwell, it also harbored strong Jacobite sympathies, as evident by secret meetings held on Oak Apple Day.
Queen Eleanor’s Crosses: Edward I. erected fifteen crosses across England to commemorate his beloved queen Eleanor, with three surviving in Geddington, Waltham, and Northampton.
The “Bell” at Stilton: The famous Stilton cheese was first sold at this inn, but why it was not named after its birthplace in Leicestershire remains a mystery.
Fotheringay Castle’s tragic legacy: This castle, where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned and executed, was demolished after James I. ascended the throne, but its oak staircase was re-erected in the “Talbot” inn at Oundle.
Compton Wyniates’ connection to the Gunpowder Plot: The manor house was owned by Robert Catesby, the key figure behind the Gunpowder Plot, who sold the estate to raise funds for the conspiracy.
The “White House” of Pixham: This timber-and-plaster house is believed to have been a temporary residence for Jane Lane, who famously helped Charles II. escape after the Battle of Worcester.
Severn End’s historical ties: This mansion, sadly destroyed by fire, was the headquarters of Major-General Massey, a key figure in the English Civil War.
Birtsmorton Court’s connections to the Lollards: Local tradition suggests that Sir John Oldcastle, a leader of the Lollard movement, sought refuge in this fortified manor house.
The Nanfan family’s connection to Cardinal Wolsey: Wolsey served as chaplain for Sir Richard Nanfan, a prominent figure at the Court, which led to his advancement in Henry VIII’s service.
The “Whispering Knights” at Rollright: This mysterious group of stones is said to be the petrified remnants of a Danish prince and his soldiers, punished for their arrogance.
Baddesley Clinton’s ghostly residents: This manor house is home to two ghosts: a handsome youth with raven hair and a mysterious lady dressed in black brocade.
Hengrave Hall’s connection to Queen Elizabeth: Elizabeth stayed at Hengrave Hall, built by Sir Thomas Kytson, during her progresses through England.
The “Brown Lady” of Rushbrooke Hall: This ghost is said to haunt the Hall in a rich brown brocade dress, making her presence known every few decades.
The “White Lady” of West Stow Hall: This mysterious figure is said to emerge from a room in the main building at midnight.
Oxburgh Hall’s secret hiding place: This ingeniously concealed room, located in a turret, was designed to protect the Catholic Bedingfield family from persecution during the Reformation.
The Bedingfield family’s enduring lineage: The Bedingfields, known for their staunch Catholicism, have owned Oxburgh Hall for centuries.
Charles I.’s escape through Norfolk: The king spent several days wandering through the eastern counties in disguise in 1646, seeking refuge at Snowre Hall.
Mannington Hall’s ghostly visitor: This mansion is famous for its well-documented ghostly encounter, described by Dr. Jessop, involving a figure in an ecclesiastical habit.

Statistics:

Over 80 horses: The “Bell” at Stilton once housed over 80 horses and saw 36 coaches pulling up daily for refreshment.
£30,000 in repairs: Chirk Castle required £30,000 in repairs after the damage inflicted by General Lambert during the English Civil War.
£125,000 for a single share: The value of a single share in Sir Hugh Myddelton’s New River company rose from £3, 4s. 2d. in 1633 to £125,000 in 1899.
140 servants: The ninth Earl of Rutland employed 140 servants at Haddon Hall during Charles II’s reign.
£15,000 for entertainment: The Duke of Newcastle spent a staggering £15,000 to entertain Charles I. at Bolsover Castle.
169 years old: Henry Jenkins, who died in 1670, lived an astonishing 169 years, claiming to have witnessed significant historical events firsthand.
152 years old: Thomas Parr, who died in the reign of Charles I., lived to be 152 years old, an extraordinary feat of longevity.
10 monarchs: Thomas Parr lived through the reigns of ten monarchs, from Edward IV to Charles I.
9 princes: The Duke of Ormonde, who died in 1688, was contemporary with nine monarchs, spanning over 100 years of English history.
64 quarterings: The tomb of the first Earl of Bath at Tawstock Church displays 64 quarterings, representing the family’s numerous intermarriages with prominent English families.
30,000 pounds: Sir Edward Hungerford, who squandered his inheritance, is said to have died in poverty despite a fortune of 30,000 pounds per year.
14 counties: The “Lodge” at Cothelstone boasts views of 14 counties, highlighting its commanding position on the Quantock Hills.
22 feet in girth: The ancient yew tree at Stanway House in Gloucestershire is a massive 22 feet in girth, a testament to its age.
200 bosses: The cloisters at Lacock Abbey feature over 200 bosses, each with a unique design, showcasing the artistry of the era.
6 hours of cannon fire: The Battle of Norton St. Philip, a key engagement in the Monmouth Rebellion, saw 6 hours of continuous cannon fire between the Royalist and Monmouth’s forces.
5,000 people: Monmouth’s supporters were said to number around 5,000 people who accompanied him during his rebellion.
1,000 gallons: The “George” at Norton St. Philip contained three huge beer barrels, each holding 1,000 gallons, showcasing the inn’s grand scale.
12 children: The monument to Sir Timothy Hutton in Richmond Church features him and his wife with their 12 children, illustrating the large families of the period.
40 garlands: The church at Abbotts Ann in Hampshire boasts approximately 40 “virgins’ crowns,” showcasing the enduring tradition of honoring young deceased maidens.

Terms:

Jacobean: A style of architecture prevalent in England during the reign of James I (1603-1625).
Elizabethan: A style of architecture prevalent in England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603).
Tudor: A style of architecture prevalent in England during the Tudor dynasty (1485-1603).
Norman: A style of architecture prevalent in England from the 11th to 12th centuries, characterized by rounded arches and heavy stonework.
Gothic: A style of architecture prevalent in Europe from the 12th to 16th centuries, characterized by pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, and intricate stained glass.
Cistercian: A monastic order founded in 1098, known for its austere lifestyle and its simple, yet elegant architecture.
Lollards: A religious movement that emerged in England in the 14th century, advocating for reforms within the Catholic Church.
Puritan: A Protestant sect that emerged in England in the 16th century, seeking to purify the Church of England of its Catholic elements.
Magpie Architecture: A style of timber-framed architecture, often found in rural England, characterized by contrasting colors of black and white.
“Magpie” work: Ornamental timber work, typically used in the construction of half-timber houses, often featuring geometric designs and patterns.

Examples:

The “Whispering Knights” at Rollright: This group of stones is said to be the petrified remnants of a Danish prince and his soldiers who turned to stone because of their arrogance.
Queen Eleanor’s Cross at Geddington: This graceful monument was erected by Edward I. to honor his queen Eleanor, who died in 1290.
The “George” at Norton St. Philip: This ancient inn served as the headquarters for the Duke of Monmouth during the Monmouth Rebellion, witnessing the initial battle of the uprising.
Compton Wyniates’ hidden chambers: This manor house boasts numerous secret entrances and hiding places, including the “Devil’s Chamber” and a secret passage concealed behind a movable floor.
The “White Lady” of West Stow Hall: This ghostly figure is said to emerge from a room in the main building at midnight, adding a haunting element to the manor.
The “Brown Lady” of Rushbrooke Hall: This ghost, a stately lady in a rich brown brocade dress, has been seen by various visitors, adding a touch of mystery to the house.
The Bedingfield’s hiding place at Oxburgh Hall: This ingeniously concealed room, hidden beneath the solid brick floor of a turret, was crucial for the family’s protection during the Reformation.
Charles I.’s escape through Norfolk: The king, disguised as a clergyman, escaped from Oxford and found refuge at Snowre Hall in 1646.
Mannington Hall’s ghostly encounter: Dr. Jessop, a chaplain to the King, witnessed a ghostly figure in an ecclesiastical habit while staying at the mansion, an event he documented in detail.
The escape of Mary Queen of Scots from Bolton Castle: The queen, determined to return to Scotland, attempted to escape by being lowered from a window and fleeing through the woods, but was eventually apprehended.

Conclusion: “Nooks and Corners of Old England” is a fascinating and insightful journey through the lesser-known and often overlooked aspects of England’s history and architecture. Allan Fea’s meticulous observations and captivating storytelling transport the reader to a bygone era, showcasing the beauty of ancient manor houses, quaint villages, and the captivating stories that linger within their walls. The book reminds us of the importance of preserving these hidden gems for future generations and celebrates the enduring charm and mystery of England’s rural heritage.

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