In 1890 a new Rector, John Watkins, arrived and, unlike previous rectors, he intended to live in Willingham rather than just visit from time to time. He must have been fairly wealthy as he used his own money to restore the church and, in 1891, set about building a big new rectory that is, today, Willingham House. This month’s picture is reputed to be the old rectory prior to demolition. It looks quite grand but this is most likely an extension on to an older building. The original rectory was built prior to 1662 when it is reported to have “8 hearths”. Likely, behind this façade, the building was pretty dilapidated, hence Watson’s decision to rebuild.
June 2024
