The Pink Passport quest is fast drawing to a close, along with my summer holiday and as I was up in the area visiting a different site (the Witchcraft Museum), I decided to pop in here first as I knew it was only a small place which would not take too much of my time.
First, a bit of history about the site is as follows:
The house was used for several businesses during the Victorian period, all of which were a side-line to farming. The building is recorded as having been used as a greengrocers, dressmakers, draper’s, and shoemakers. The final use of the building was as the letter-receiving office for the village, sometime between 1870-1878.
By the late 19th century the house was in a bad state of repair and was in danger of being demolished. Thankfully, it was saved by a local group who bought the house from an auction, having raised the funds to buy it.
Following its rescue, various artworks of the house were sold, and the proceeds used to pay an Arts and Crafts architect to carry out essential maintenance and restore it to its former glory. Knowing the Old Post Office would need long-term care, the group appealed to the National Trust who agreed to look after the house and acquired it for £200 in 1903.
I am glad I popped in here because, although it is only a small place, it feels really atmospheric and the woman on the desk was so very friendly and seemed very happy that I had decided to visit and purchase a few items on my way out.
