Monument record MDO8691 - Fish pond probably associated with Somerford Grange, Christchurch

A pond in Mudeford Wood is probably a former fish pond connected with the medieval Somerford Grange.

(SZ 18469342) The manor of Somerford was, in 1086, included either in the King's manor or in the priory estate. The manor belonged to the Priory (SZ 19 SE 14) in 1316.

The manor, after the Dissolution, remained in the King's hands until 1553, when Edward VI granted it to Sir Henry Seymour. From 1610 it followed the descent of the prior and convents manor of Christchurch Twyneham. The farmhouse or 'side of the manor' of Somerford in 1781 was acquired by Gustav Brander who pulled down the old house and built a new one on its site (1).

Somerford Grange, once the farmhouse to the Priory. At this place there are indications of fishponds and fatting-stews (2).

The house shown on OS 6" as Somerford Grange has recently been demolished and the comparatively modern farm buildings and cottages to the south are all derelict. Nothing was seen of any building earlier than the 18th cent. The Fish pond shown is water filled but weed choked and overgrown; it was probably connected with the Md grange. The remainder of the surrounding area is an aerodrome. (3)

No change; published 1/1250 correct. (4)

<1> 1912, The Victoria history of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight 5, 94-95 (Monograph). SWX3895.

<2> Mudie, Robert, 1838, Illustrated History of Hampshire, 227 (Monograph). SDO20264.

<3> Woodhouse, W C, Various, Field Investigators Comments WCW, F1 WCW 16-JUL-54 (Unpublished document). SWX3798.

<4> Aldsworth, F G, Various, Field Investigators Comments FGA, F2 FGA 31-MAR-69 (Unpublished document). SWX1161.

Record last edited

Sep 9 2024 4:52PM