Winslow History | Parsons Close & the Tithe Barn

Parsons Close & the Tithe Barn

The former Tithe Barn is in the centre of this photo (between Western Lodge and The Plough). Parsons Close was reached by a path to the right of the Barn, running past the trees.

The right to collect the tithes for Winslow was held by the Abbot of St Albans until 1539, but it was usually contracted out.

1396-1401 Gesta Abbatum iii 446
Also (the Abbot erected) a place for storing the tithes of the same office [the Chamberlain] at Wynselowe. The grange of the same in the manor there had been sold to one Richard Martyn for twelve pence demised annually in fee, and he [the Abbot] redeemed it for eighteen marks, paid to the same for the same. In that place he rebuilt a very good grange, and walled it with very strong earth walls. Hence afterwards he sold or demised the tithes more dearly.

The grange referred to was probably at Biggin, but in the 16th century (if not earlier) it seems that the tithe barn and a close went together, probably meaning Parson's Close and the adjacent barn.

1534 Abbot of St Albans demised the Rectory of Winslow to John Boston with all fruits and tenths of corn and hay, within the parish of Winslow and fields there, and in the hamlet of Shipton, with a barn and close, for the term of forty years, at the annual rent of fourteen pounds.

1573 Similar lease from the Crown to David de Leye, goldsmith, mentions "barn and close"; 21 years; rent £14.

1595 Similar lease to Henry Best, same terms.

1606 Similar lease to Sir John Fortescue and Richard Tomlyne mentions "the tithe barn and close of pasture to the same belonging … late belonging to St Albans Monastery".

1619 Lease of Swanbourne Rectory and. Winslow Rectory to Lawrence Whitaker and Henry Price. Winslow Rectory rental £14 p.a.

1660 Court of Survey held by the Duke of Buckingham, having regained ownership of the Manor of Winslow, mentions "a close called the Parsonage Close and thereon is a barn and part of ye said barn is lately converted into a tenement …"

Early 20th-century view of the Vicarage from Parson's Close; the wall in front of the Vicarage is still there

Ownership of the manor and the tithes was reunited until the right to collect the great tithes was extinguished at the enclosure of Winslow in 1767.

1703 Notes made by William Lowndes (Centre for Bucks Studies D/LO/4/1)

Writings concerning the Mannor Town & Rectory of Winslow with the Parsonage Close and those Eight Acres which were layd to the Mannor.

A copy from the Records in the Custody of the Lord Treasurer and Chamberlains of the Exchequer Inter Placit de Mich^o 10^mo Hen 4th of the Franchises which the Abbots of St Albans had in Winslow and their other Mannors
A copy of an Inspeximus dated the 1 July 1 Hen 8^vi of the same Franchises
A copy of a Survey of the Manor of Winslow made in the reigne of King Phillip and Queen Mary taken from the Book of ye Auditor of Bucks
Letters patent of Queen Elizabeth under the greate Seale dated 12 November 41 year of her reigne wherein for Two Thousand three hundred thirty nine pounds seven shillings sixpence paid into the Exchequer she grants the Mannors of Winslow Shipton Greenborough and Little Horwood to Sir John Fortescue and Alice his wife and the heirs of Sir John with such franchises as the Abbots had
Letters patents of King James the first dated 9th January Anno 4^to wherein his Ma(jes)ty for Service done by Lewis Duke of Lenox granted to Sir John Fortescue and Richard Tomlyne and their heires the Rectory and Church of Winslow the Tythes of Winslow and Shipton the Barne and Close to the said Rectory belonging (the advowson excepted) Rendring to the Crown the yearly rent of Fourteen Pounds at Lady Day and Mich by equal porcons
An Indenture in latin dated 4 Febr 5 Ja(me)s wherein Tomlyn (the survivor) doth bargain and sell the said Rectory to Sir Francis Fortescue son & heir of Sir John then deceased and to his heirs This deed appears to be burnt in part at Sir Robert Claytons house (as is said) in the great conflagration of London but is inrolled in Chancery
An Indenture dated 28 April xii^mo Car wherein the EarI of Antrim and the said Duchesse and Sir Robert Pye one of the Trustees Demise to Peter Fige sen the Tythes &c for ten years if the Duchess so long live at one hundred and thirty six pounds thirteen shillings four pence per annum rent

29 Feb 1703
2 acr(es) and a Barn in the parsonage Close
8 acres lying dispersedly in Winslow Field
The Manor of Winslow cum membris
The Rectory impropriate of Winslow and Shipton
The Town of Winslow with the Fairs & Market
£4900 0 0 (paid to) Nich Goodwin et al
These are all let together to Robt Gibbs at an old rent of 220 li p(er) annu(m)

Mem. 7
Then Charles Twitty covenants with Mr Richard HiIl that he hath made no Incumbrance Except a lease and Release dated 21st & 22nd Feb 1699 of a tenement called Motehall in Winslow In the Use of Richard Big and his wife and other uses.

William Lowndes rebuilt the Tithe Barn in 1722-3 (see his accounts) at a cost of over £200, on the same site as before. According to Pevsner, he used part of the old building: "The alterations can be seen on the front: the early C18 timber cross-windows on the l. belong to the new part, the r. ones are cut into the brickwork of the barn, with blocked ventilation slits above. Some C17 mullioned timber windows at the back.". See photo below.

1725 Manor court
Boundary dispute about "the Ground of ... Robert Lowndes now in the occupation of William Gibbs adjoyning to the Vicaridge Garden & Orchard of Winslowe". The jurors "say that from the upper Pillaster to the lower Corner of Mr Edmonds [=the Vicar] Sumerhouse of his s(ai)d Garden in Winslowe aforesaid is ninety four feet in length, and that the said Pillaster doth stand three feet within the Ground of the said Robert Lowndes in the occupation of the said William Gibbs, and that the lower end of the said sumer house of the said Mr Edmonds doth stand five feet within the Ground of the said Robert Lowndes in the occupac(i)on of the said W(illia)m Gibbs".

1767 Enclosure Award
Parsonage Close mentioned in list of old enclosures belonging to William Lowndes.

After Enclosure the Tithe Barn was no longer needed for its original purpose, and was converted to other uses. According to Clear (1894, 118), it was used as the "head quarters" for one of the "big lumbering Stage Waggons, drawn by four horses" - either Thomas Rogers' stage waggons sold in 1781 or the Buckingham & Winslow Butter Waggons sold by Thomas Ingram in 1812. It later became a hunting box whose regular occupants were a groom and his family.

1795 1-2 Dec
Lowndes family settlement mentions "all that the rectory or parsonage impropriate of Winslow aforesaid with the appurtenances in the said County of Buckingham with the close called the parsonage close there and one Messuage then sometime since erected on the said Parsonage Close with the appurtenances and all tythes of or belonging to the said Rectory in Winslow and Shipton ..."

1844: Bucks Advertiser & Aylesbury News, 24 Feb
DISGUSTING EXHIBITION.- On Monday last, a pugilistic encounter took place in Parson’s Close, Winslow, between Alfred Morecraft and Leonard Baldwin, of that town, for half-a-crown. After fighting a few rounds, Morecraft was declared the victor.

1845 Bucks Gazette, 3 May
On Friday last, two lectures were delivered at Winslow, by Mr. Albert Pennington, under the patronage of W. Selby Lowndes, Esq. and the Winslow Book Society. The first lecture was in the morning on astronomy, illustrated by transparent Diagrams, illuminated by the oxy-hydrogen light, and succeeded by an exhibition of dissolving views 50 feet in circumference, and a powerful oxy-hydrogen microscope,- The second lecture was delivered in the evening, and the same subjects continued with similar exhibitions, but with different views and illustrations. The Tithe Barn was commodiously fitted up for the occasion, and brilliantly lighted with gas. The numerous and respectable audiences assembled at both lectures testified, in the warmest manner, their approbation of the intellectual treat which had been prepared for them, and much admired the beauty of the dissolving views, and the marvellous power of the microscope. Most of the influential families in the neighbourhood were present, including W Selby Lowndes, Esq., Sir Harry and Lady Verney and family, P. Dauncey, Esq., and Mrs. Dauncey, the Revds. W. W. McCreight, M. Kerr, E. N. Young, S. Wright, and families, all of whom expressed themselves much gratified. Mr. Pennington’s apparatus is of first-rate description, and was worked with perfect accuracy throughout, and is well adapted to illustrate his highly interesting and instructive lectures.

1851 Census
Horn Street

Sarah	Egleton	Servant in charge of house	unm	36	House servant	b. Winslow
Margaret	Whichello	Charwoman	unm	61	Charwoman	b. Odiham, Hants

1857 Rate Book
Jackson Esq & Reynolds
House & Land.
4s 4½d. (2d. in £)

View looking south-east across Parsons Close to the former Tithe Barn, with added stabling

1859 Rate Book
Jackson T. Esq
House etc.
R.V. £26 5 0
6s 7d (3d in £)
[N.B. Jackson later crossed out and Villars inserted]

1861 Census
Horn Street

~~William~~ Ann	Trew	Wife	mar	40	Groom's wife	b. St George's Hanover Square, London
Emily J.	Trew	Daughter		15	Scholar	b. Lowe, Warws
Eleanor M.	Trew	Daughter		13	Scholar	b. St George's Hanover Square, London
Samuel	Trew	Son		11	Scholar	b. St George's Hanover Square, London
John	Frost	Servant	unm	25	Groom's helper	b. Paulerspury, Northants

1861    Rate Book
Villers Hon Mrs
House etc.
R.V. £26 5 0
6s 7d

1863 Rate Book
Villers Hon Mrs House etc R.V. €£26 5 0 6s 7d

1865 Lot 12 in sale of Lowndes estate
Large house and premises in Winslow with capital stabling and loose boxes fitted up for a complete hunting establishment let to Mrs Villiers
[N.B. mentions indenture of 1795]

The premises were bought by David Thomas Willis the solicitor.

1871 Census
Horn Street

William	Trew	Head	mar	52	Groom	b. South Weild, Essex
Ann	Trew	Wife	mar	49	Groom's wife	b. London
Eleanor M.	Trew	Daughter	unm	23	Dressmaker	b. London
Clara	Trew	Daughter		8	Scholar	b. Winslow

1877 Directory
Trew, William, Stud Groom to Lord William Osbourne

By 1881 the premises had been divided into two separate dwellings, occupied by employees of Mr Greaves of Western House.

1881 Census
Parsons Close

Austin	Watson	Head	mar	33	Gardener	b. Water Stratford
Maria M.	d^o	Wife	mar	32	Gardener's wife	b. Barton, Oxon
Ernest	d^o	Son		11	Errand boy	b. Padbury
Clement	d^o	Son		9	Scholar	b. Padbury
Frank	d^o	Son		6	Scholar	b. Winslow
Clara	d^o	Daughter		4	Scholar	b. Winslow
Charles	d^o	Son		2		b. Winslow
Louisa	d^o	Daughter		3m		b. Winslow

John	Turney	Head	mar	34	Groom	b. Hollingdon, Bucks
Rosetta	d^o	Wife	mar	34	Groom's wife	b. Winslow
Fanny	d^o	Daugher		9	Scholar	b. Winslow
William	d^o	Son		5	Scholar	b. Winslow

1886: Conveyance (referred to in 1946 and 1963 sales particulars)
Executors of D.T. Willis to G.R. Greaves

1891 Directory
Watson, Austin, gardener to G.R. Greaves Esq

1891 Census
Horn Street

Austin	Watson	Head	mar	43	Gardener Domestic	b. Water Stratford
Maria M.	d^o	Wife	mar	42		b. Steeple Barton, Oxon
Clement	d^o	Son	unm	19	Tailor	b. Padbury
Clara	d^o	Daughter		14	Drapers Apprentice	b. Winslow
Charles	d^o	Son		12	Grocers Apprentice	b. Winslow
Louisa	d^o	Daughter		10	Scholar	b. Winslow
George	d^o	Son		8	Scholar	b. Winslow
William	d^o	Son		5	Scholar	b. Winslow
Ellen	d^o	Daughter		2		b. Winslow

John	Turney	Head	mar	41	Groom Domestic	b. Hollingdon, Bucks
Rose	d^o	Wife	mar	42	Groom's wife	b. Winslow
William	d^o	Son		15	Errand boy	b. Winslow
John	Smith	Nephew		3	Scholar	b. West Bromwich

Part of the former Tithe Barn is now the Barn Studio. The original function is clear in this view from the rear.

1901 Census
Horn Street

Austin	Watson	Head	mar	53	Gardener Domestic	b. Water Stratford
Maria Margaret	d^o	Wife	mar	52		b. Steeple Barton, Oxon
Ellen	d^o	Daughter		12		b. Winslow
Hubert Luing	d^o	Son		8		b. Winslow

John	Turney	Head	wid	53	Stableman Domestic	b. Winslow [sic]
John	Smith	Nephew		13	Drapers errand boy	b. West Bromwich

1902: Buckingham Advertiser, 8 Nov
TO HUNTING GENTLEMEN.- The Grafton Bicester, Whaddon Chase, and Rothschild’s Staghounds. Gentlemen hunting with above packs, will find the best accommodation for their hunters at a first-class private Hunting Stables; large, roomy boxes, every attention.- Address, TURNEY, Stud Groom, Parson’s-close, Winslow, Bucks.

1911 Census
The Close (5 rooms in first house, 4 in second)

Austin	Watson	Head	mar	63	Gardener Domestic	b. Water Stratford
Maria	d^o	Wife	mar	62	married 42 years, 10 children (9 alive)	b. Steeple Barton, Oxon
Ellen	d^o	Daughter		22		b. Winslow

Robert	Turney	Head	mar	52	General Labourer for Butcher	b. Hollingdon, Bucks
Sarah	Turney	Wife	mar	53	married 29 years, 3 children all alive	b. Winslow
Albert Robert	Turney	Son		10	School	b. Winslow

1915: Assessment (TNA, IR58/2349)
no.379
Situation                                  Parson’s Close
Description                               House
Gross Value      Buildings £9     Rateable Value £7 - 5
Occupier                                   Austin Watson
Owner                                   Mrs Ellen Mary Greaves, Winslow
Interest of Owner                     Freehold
Occupier’s tenancy, Term         Tenant at will (Service)
Outgoings - Land Tax, 18/-(including 74 & 380)     paid by Owner
Who pays (a) Rates and Taxes (b) Insurance         }
Who is liable for repairs                                          }              Owner
Former Sales Dates                         None
Owner’s Estimate Gross Value    Small & Barker
Site Value Deductions Claimed    Yes
Particulars, description and note made on inspection
Brick & Slate Cottage
3 bedrooms & 3 rooms down & W.C. & pantry & 1 attic
            .180 [acre]       29 poles
Valuation – Market Value of Fee Simple in possession of whole property in its present condition    [red] With 72 [see Western House]
no.380
Situation                                  Parsons Close
Description                               House
Gross Value      Buildings £9     Rateable Value £7 - 5
Occupier                                   John Turney
Owner                                   Mrs Ellen Mary Greaves, Western House, Winslow
Interest of Owner                     Tenant for Life Freehold
Occupier’s tenancy, Term         Quarterly
Actual (or Estimated,) rent       £5
Outgoings - Land Tax, £ 18/-(see 379)         paid by Owner
Who pays (a) Rates and Taxes (b) Insurance         }
Who is liable for repairs                                          }              Owner
Former Sales Dates                         No Sale
Owner’s Estimate Gross Value    Smith & Barker
Particulars, description and note made on inspection
Brick & Slate Cottage
1 attic & 1 up & 1 down
W.C. & Barn
                     2 poles
Valuation – Market Value of Fee Simple in possession of whole property in its present condition     [red] With 72

1920 Directory
Watson, Austin, Head Gardener to Mrs Greaves, Horn Street

1921 Census

The Gardens, Western House [=Parsons Close] 6 rooms
William	Haskings	Head	married	50	Gardener to Mrs Greaves	b. Thame
Catherine	Haskings	Wife	married	51	Home duties	b. Canterbury
[Parsons Close] 4 rooms
Sarah	Turney	Head	widow	63	Home duties	b. Winslow
Fanny	Harding	Niece	single	31	Home duties	b. Winslow

1930 Hilliers Almanac
Parsons Close 1 Mildon, G.P.
3 Elwood, Elizabeth

1937 Hilliers Almanac
Parsons Close 1 Rolfe, A
3 Elwood, Elizabeth
Stables, W.J. Smith Ltd.

1937: Sale of Mrs Greaves' estate including Western House (sale catalogue = Centre for Bucks Studies D/WIG/2/8/339)

Valuable accommodation enclosure "Parson's Close" having road frontages on two sides, and comprising an area of about 1a. 3r. 21p., including
Block of spacious stabling around the yard, comprising a brick and tiled lofty building, partitioned to form 7 boxes. Harness room, 2 boxes and a saddle room, with loft over and a brick and slated range of Garage and 3 store rooms.
No.1 Parson's Close, containing Sitting and Living Rooms, Scullery, 3 Bedrooms and Attic. Garden; in the occupation of the gardener, on a service tenancy
No.3 Parson's Close has a Living Room, Scullery, and 3 Bedrooms, now let to Mrs. Ellwood, on a registered de-controlled tenancy, at 5/- per week (Landlord paying rates).

The property did not reach the reserve at auction, but was sold privately to the Countess of Lathom in 1938.

1943: Inventory by Geo. Wigley & Sons (D/WIG/2/1/169)
Inventory of Furniture at Mrs Agar’s House. No1. Parsons Close, Winslow. Being the property of the Countess of Lathom. Taken 12th. October 1943
Stained dining table.
Armchair in leather – extra cover.
Check pattern fibre matting – in Back Sitting Room (2 long and 1 short strips).
Small square plain wooden table – shelf below.
Stained chest of 3 long drawers.
Pink cotton curtain (10ft.)
Single iron bedstead – combination chain spring.
2 – 5ft hair mattresses.
French chest of 5 long drawers, marble top.
Single crimson eiderdown.
2 fold screen (of deal frame with green damask cover)
Yellow painted pedestal cupboard.
Green Axminster carpet.
3 red blankets.
Yellow painted single wardrobe oval mirror door.
A similar dressing chest of 4 drawers with a swing glass over.

1946: Inventory by Geo. Wigley & Sons (D/WIG/2/1/173)
INVENTORY of the furniture etc., at No. 1. Parsons Close, Winslow in the part let to Mr. W. Chalmers.
                                                            3rd February, 1946
Front Bedroom
            Piece of brown carpet                                             Stained. 1 hole
            4 odd pieces of carpet
            3ft.6in. bed covered in tapestry                              1 foot missing
            Box spring in similar cover
            Feather bed in white cover
            Bolster and pillow
            Bedcover to match
            Painted bedside cupboard                                     Makd
            2ft. painted table                                                      Mkd.
            Small wicker easy chair
            Wicker linen box with lid
            3ft. painted dressing chest, with swing glass.     Mkd. 1 ring handle msg.
            Wheelback chair                                                      Seat staining gone
            2ft.3in. painted garderobe, with mirror door.       Mkd. Door does not fit
            7 coat hangers
            Single divan bed in blue stripe.                              Head board mkd. Soiled
            Hair mattress
            Bolster in striped cover
            Down pillow in white cover                                     Cover soiled
            2 curtain runners.
            E. 1. Bulb and opaque shade
            White chamber, white jug and rose pattern basin (basin ckd.)
           \ Pair of red casement curtains/
            Windows
            Distempered walls                                                   Poor
            Ceiling                                                                       Peeling
Middle Bedroom
            Piece of brown carpet
            3ft. iron stump bed, diamond spring                        Chpd.
            Hair mattress in green stripe                                  Iron stnd.
            Pillow in striped cover
            Painted bedside cupboard                                   Mkd
            White chamber
            Oak tray washstand                                                Polish worn
            White jug and basin
            Wicker splashback
            3ft. painted chest of 4 drawers                              Scr. And chpd.
            1 red casement curtain
            Windows
            Distempered walls                                                   Poor
            Ceiling
Sitting Room
            Piece of brown cord carpet                                     Worn
            Iron curb                                                                    Rusty
            Anthracite coal vase                                                Lip dmgd.
            Coal scuttle                                                               Bottom burst
            Iron long fork
            Wicker arm chair
            2ft. 6in. mattress                                                       Old. Stnd.
            Small unframed mirror
            4ft. deal table with drawer                                      Topscr.
            2 Windsor chairs
            2 bedroom chairs
            1 E.L. buld and 2 opaque shades
            1 iron curtain rod
            Painted rug chest
            Grained dressing table, with drawer                     Scr.
            Pair of red casement curtains
            Windows
            Distempered walls                                                   Soiled
            Ceiling
Front Sitting Room
            Long lined pink cotton curtain
Passage
            Set of 3 painted shelves
            Folding garden table and an iron garden chair
            Hair broom
            E. L. bulb
            E. L. bulb in front room
Scullery
            Wooden screen
            Square deal table
            4 tread lattice steps
            Window,
            Walls                                                                          Poor
Outside
            Gal. dust bin and a watering can
            Pan and pedestal in W.C., in working order

The premises are left clean, floors scrubbed and furniture dusted.
I agree that this inventory is correct,
[Signed] W. A. Chalmers, Tenant.

1946: Buckingham Advertiser, 15 June

With early possession (except one cottage).
On the main Buckingham – Aylesbury bus route
WINSLOW
Messrs. GEO. WIGLEY & SONS
are instructed by the Countess of Lathom to sell by auction on MONDAY, JUNE 24th, 1946
At THE BELL HOTEL, Winslow, at 3 o’clock, in one lot.
The Valuable Accommodation Enclosure of about TWO ACRES, known as
PARSONS’S CLOSE
having valuable road frontages to Vicarage Lane and Western Road
A PAIR of 16th Cent. Five-roomed COTTAGES well set back and screened from the road.

Sale particulars (D/WIG 3/2/98)

Particulars Of
The Valuable Accommodation Enclosure
Of about TWO ACRES
Known as “PARSONS CLOSE”
Having extensive road frontage to Vicarage Lane and Western Road, and approached from Horn Street, with a
Fine Block of Spacious Stabling
thereon, ranged round a yard and comprising: A brick and tiled lofty building fitted to form 7 loose boxes, also the return range including copper house, harness room, 2 stall stable (with loft above) and a brick and tiled outbuilding with four internal divisions. Timber and c.i. lean-to shed.
also the adjoining Pair of 16th Century Five-roomed Cottages
Brick and tiled, well set back and screened from the road, comprising :-
No. 1. Parson’s Close, containing sitting room, living room, scullery, 3 bedrooms and attic. Garden, potting shed and W.C. Main water and electricity.
No. 3. Parson’s Close, having a living room, scullery and 3 bedrooms. Let to Mrs. Aspinall at 6/- per week (tenant paying rates) or £15 12s. 0d. per annum.
Together with the exceptionally valuable and highly productive
Walled KITCHEN GARDEN
Situate behind the cottages and adjoining the field.
POSSESSION of all (except one cottage) on 29th SEPTEMBER next.
Land Tax - £2 8s. 3d.
The property presents great possibilities of ultimate conversion to a COMPACT COUNTRY HOUSE, to include part of the present stables.
NOTE.- As regards the cottages, a small strip of land adjoining Western Cottage belongs to the adjoining owner and is not included in this sale as described below:-
An irregular shaped piece of land adjoining Western Cottage and extending to and running along the centre line of certain inspection chambers now situate on the said piece of land. Excepting and reserving unto the owners of the cottages a full and free right of way for foot passengers with or without wheelbarrows only over and along the footpath which now passes over the said inspection chambers.

Buckingham Advertiser, 29th June: The accommodation enclosure known as Parsons Close was not sold.

Letter from Geo. Wigley & Sons to The Countess of Lathom, Seven Gables, Addington, 1st July 1946
My Lady,
Parsons Close
            Considering the fact that we shall have to work on a controlled rent for the cottage, I am rather inclined to advise you to let the people you mention have it rent free in the capacity of caretakers, with the responsibility of keeping up the garden.
            Your Ladyship must look at it from the point of view that this tenancy might continue for twelve months, but the loss by way of income would be negligible.
            In twelve months I sincerely hope the tenant of the other house may come to some conclusion as regards moving, which will give us the opportunity of effecting a sale on advantageous terms. I still doubt, however, whether your Ladyship will see £3,500, as anybody buying would have to spend at least £2,000 on the property, and the possibility of getting a licence for such work within the next few years is very remote.

On 3 Aug 1946 the Countess of Lathom gave a yearly tenancy to R.W.Y. Abbs of Bearsden, Glasgow for "cottage & garden being no.3 Parsons Close". Correspondence with Geo. Wigley & Sons indicates that there was still a prospective purchaser after the sale below fell through (Centre for Bucks Studies, D/WIG/2/8/294).

1950: Death of Margaret McEwan Porter of 2 Parsons Close (see her will). She doesn't appear to have owned the property but her nephew Jack Killick (who did own it) lived at 1 Parsons Close.

1952: Buckingham Advertiser, 22 Nov

Parsons Close Controversy
WINSLOW PEOPLE “UP IN ARM” [sic]

The decision of Winslow Rural District Council to use Parsons Close, Winslow’s historic unofficial recreation ground, as a housing site, is creating much controversy in Winslow.

The R.D.C. wants to purchase 1.24 acres of the Close to build 14 bungalows. Parish Councillor H. R. Langley told the Inspector he thought it was “sacrilegious, asinine stupidity”.

The following were some of the other views at the Ministry inquiry:-

The owner of the Close, Mr. J. Killick, said that both the land and a nearby house and gardens were on the site of a 14th century Abbey. It was good pasture land, let to a smallholder, and he was pleased that people used it for recreation. Some years ago he had thought of giving the land to the Parish Council.

Mr. D. L. Morgan, the smallholder, called it “some of the finest turf in Winslow”. Water was laid on for his cattle and there was shade for them. Building on the land would mean selling some of his stock.

Parish Council Chairman, Councillor W. G. Chowles, said it had always been his desire to see it an official open space.

Children would have to cross the main road to get to the playing field and Parish Councillor M. I. Rudd was afraid that if the land was built on, children would play in the street.

Mr. C. E. Beane also pleaded for the present use to be continued.

Mr. A. H. Wigley, a surveyor, maintained there were five alternative sites in Winslow.

R.D.C. Views

Mr. R. G. Brown, Clerk to the R.D.C., said five other sites had been inspected but found to be unsuitable. Parsons Close would be ideal, with no capital expenditure on roadworks, water mains or sewers. There was a need for old people’s bungalows.

Rural District Councillor E. W. Peverill said he did not think it was good agricultural land. Councillors A. Cox and A. R. Heritage also supported the Council’s plans. The Council’s Architect, Mr. J. H. Cox, said the bungalows would harmonise with nearby Council houses.

1952: Buckingham Advertiser, 29 Nov

Winslow R.D.C. And Parsons Close

To the Editor,
Buckingham Advertiser

Dear Sir, - As you know, the matter of the Council erecting bungalows on Parsons Close is much to the fore here. In my opinion, bearing in mind the old traditions and other factors connected with this Close, it would be nothing short of vandalism to build on it. I enclose my “poetic” contribution to the subject, which possibly you can find room for in your next issue,

Yours faithfully,
W. N. MIDGLEY,

Chesham House
High Street, Winslow.
28 November, 1952.

The Winslow Rural District Council like to throw about their weight
And cause us apoplexy or some such parlous state;
They brush aside objections and their energies engross
Towards putting up some bungalows on Parsons Close!
          On Parsons Close! On Parsons Close!
          They’ll erect them by the dozen,
          Or it may be by the gross,
          And start to put up bungle-ohs on Parsons Close!

In times gone by our “bruisers” used to fight upon the Close,
So the Council thought they’d emulate and have another dose,
They started their offensive and we countered with the right,
While the Parish Council stepped in to join the local fight.
          On Parsons Close! On Parsons Close!
          Our heart’s blood it will freeze,
          We’ll go wobbly at the knees
          If they start erecting bungle-ohs on Parsons Close!

We view the drab monotony of the Council houses near
And vow no “Act of Uniformity” should be repeated here.
We see the pleasant greensward and we say ‘twould be disgrace
To put the bungaloid excrescences upon this open space.
          On Parsons Close! On Parsons Close!
          We shall dance about and shout
          And chase them round the roundabout
          If they start to put up bungle-ohs on Parsons Close!

Times, customs, manners change, as all too well we know,
Fair fields are taken from us – bricks and mortar rule the show;
But surely we may fairly ask that this link with the past
May unencumbered still remain and be with us till the last.
          On Parsons Close! On Parsons Close!
          And we rather think the Parson
          Would be justified in arson
          Should he see the Council’s bungle-ohs on Parsons Close!

1963: death of Jack Leslie Killick: see his will. His cousin Mary Killick was apparently living in part of the house.

1963: Sale brochure, 17 June (Centre for Bucks Studies, D/WIG/2/11/106 - Sold for £9,500)
By direction of the Executors of the late J.L. Killick, Esq.
Auction by Jackson-Stops & Staff and Leslie H. Melville at Ye Olde Bull's Head Hotel, Aylesbury on 17 June

Rear view of house and garden

PARTICULARS
The Character Residence well-known as PARSONS CLOSE
Is approached by a short drive from Horn Street and occupies a pleasant position standing in its own grounds with the paddock adjoining.
It is Scheduled as a Building of Historical and Architectural Interest and dates back to the 16th Century.
The early history is unknown, but it may have been a Rest Home for the Monks on their travels to St. Albans.
At a later period it was two cottages, in recent years, it was converted into a country home replete with modern comforts.
It has the great merit of being equally suitable for occupation as one residence or two self-contained units.
A feature is the charming and restful walled pleasure garden at the rear of the house.
For the sake of convenience the accommodation of the two units is detailed separately.
The construction is of mellowed red brick with tiled roof.
No. 1 PARSONS CLOSE contains:-
Lobby.
DINING ROOM. 16’ 10” x 13’ 6” flagged floor, two window seats, cupboard and solid fuel heating stove.
Rear Passage Hall with cupboard.
LOUNGE. 16’ 6” x 11’ 4” with two cupboards and French Windows to garden.
Cloak Room with basin (h. & c.), low flush W.C. suite, electric towel rail and heater.
KITCHENETTE with “Leisure” sink unit (h. & c.), having built-in Electrolux Refrigerator and three drawers with two cupboards under, two wall cupboards,
Two cupboards with glazed fronts, two shelves.
Cellar with Coal Bunker.
On the first floor are:-
BEDROOM No. 1. 16’ 10” x 13’ 9” with cottage type fireplace and cupboard.
BATHROOM with bath (h. & c.), basin (h. & c.), heated linen cupboard with electric heater by Berry’s Ltd., heated towel rail and medicine cupboard.
BEDROOM No.2 . 16’ 10” x 9’ 8” with basin (h. & c.), exposed beam.
Separate W.C.
Cupboard on landing.
BEDROOM on second floor.
No. 2 PARSONS CLOSE contains:-
Hall. Brush Cupboard.
LOUNGE. 30’ 3” x 16’ 6” and 10’ 9” in width, French door to garden, three Windows, recessed nest of seven bookshelves, radiator, fireplace with back boiler.
KITCHEN. 14’x 10’ 6” with “Culsynk” sink unit (h. & c.), having built-in Electrolux Refrigerator, two drawers and cupboard, Preparation top with two cupboards and three drawers under.
Nest of three small cupboards.
Cupboard with six shelves and small cupboard over.
Expelair unit. Electric fire. Breakfast Bar.
Toilet with low flush suite, basin (h. & c.), and electric tubular heater.
Rope lift.
On the first floor are:-
Landing.
BEDROOM No. 1. 14’ 10” x 13’ with French door, radiator, heated linen cupboard, basin (h. & c.) and cupboard with shelves, tubular electric heater.
BATHROOM with bath (hot, cold and shower), basin (h. & c.), W.C bidet, Heatrae Automatic Electric Water Heater, corner cupboard, Belling Electric Heater.
BEDROOM No. 2. 11’ x 10’ 3” (maximum) with basin (h. & c.).
Linen cupboard with electric heater.
BEDROOM No. 3. 14’ 3” x 10’ 5” with basin (h. & c.)
Above is a loft.
BEDROOM No. 4. 10’ 9” x 14’ (maximum).
Cupboard.
SERVICES: Electric Light and Water from Mains.
                        Drainage to Sewer.
                        Telephone is connected, the number being Winslow 218 (Transfer subject to Post Office Regulations.)
                        Gas is available in the roadway.
Adjoining No. 2 is a very fine
TITHE BARN
MEASURING 32’ 3” X 17’ providing accommodation for a number of cars “up and over” doors, boarded ceiling and coal bunker.
Overlooking the garden is a Studio Room, Workshop and Potting Shed.
The Pleasure Garden
Is walled and is a most attractive feature, lawn, flower borders, small ornamental pool, greenhouse, brick and tiled tea house.
   Productive walled Kitchen Garden with about a dozen mixed fruit trees.
THE PADDOCK
Has a frontage to the Vicarage Road of about 340 feet and a second frontage to Burleys Road of about 225 feet.
The total area of the property is about 1 ACRE, 3 ROODS, 21 POLES
   Outline Planning Permission was granted in 1952 for residential development on part of the paddock, in accordance with the following conditions:-
            “Application No. WN88/52 Outline Permission granted to the use of 1.24 acres
            of land, part of fields ordnance enclosures, Nos. 75 and 77 Parsons Close,
            Vicarage Lane and Burleys Road, Winslow, for housing purposes, subject to
            The following conditions:-
1. The approval of the County Council to a comprehensive layout for the 1.24 acres of land, including, if necessary the remaining portion of enclosure No.75, with access on the two highway frontages restricted- one point of access to serve two houses - and to the number, siting design and external appearance of the buildings and the means of access thereto shall be obtained.
2. Land to form an adequate vision splay at the Junction of Vicarage Lane with Burleys Road shall be reserved.
Special condition no.6: The Title shall commence with a Conveyance on sale dated the 15th day of December 1886.

1967 Winslow Expansion Plan, p.10
The area of open land at the junction of Vicarage Road and Burleys Road should be retained as an amenity area and its value lies in the fine view it affords of St. Lawrence's Church from the west of the town.

About 10 years later Parsons Close became a small housing estate.