Synopsis
This meticulously-researched work must surely be the definitive history of Kingsthorpe, Northampton - a village with ancient roots, that is now a suburb, but was once a proud and independent royal manor with its own seal. Tony Horner's book looks at the Manor of Kingsthorpe, its situation and topography, the village land and its ownership, methods of farming, the problems of the poor, and the various systems of local government employed over the years. The author describes Kingsthorpe's population and economic history, and examines the role played by its watermills and windmills. He traces the building of schools in the village, and looks, in considerable detail, at the church, its Rectors and the now-demolished Rectory. Other subjects covered include: the histories and pedigrees of the main families associated with Kingsthorpe, the Hospital of St David or the Holy Trinity, and the establishment of Nonconformist churches. Village leisure pursuits are also explored. There are transcriptions of many fascinating official documents taken from the Northamptonshire Record Office, which will be invaluable for family.
Bringing the whole rich heritage of the village to life are three illustrated walks round old Kingsthorpe, which explain the significance and origins of many historic buildings or sites. Old maps show how the village used to be.
