Manor House Farm
Historical Significance
Manor House Farm stands as the oldest surviving home in Osgathorpe, a magnificent Tudor farmhouse constructed during the late 16th century (circa 1580-1600). This architectural treasure represents a pivotal period in English building design, when Tudor architecture flourished across the country between 1485 and 1603, elegantly blending Gothic and Renaissance elements.
Architectural Features
The property, officially listed as "Manor Farm House" features a distinctive hall and cross-wing plan with the entrance positioned between the two primary structural units. The impressive cross wing showcases exposed timber framing with large panels and arch braces, though the ground floor has since been updated with brick construction. The main range has either been clad or rebuilt in brick and consists of two units separated by a stack.
The building's exterior is distinguished by:
A brick string course at first-floor height
An additional doorway on the eastern elevation
Casement windows (19th century) in configurations of 2-light and 3-light
The gable end featuring three windows with segmental brick arched heads
Moulded brick coping to the gable
Swithland slate roofing the main range
Plain tiles re-roofing the cross wing
Well
Inside, the home retains its original character with beamed ceilings and a distinctive brick/copper feature cauldron, testaments to its agricultural heritage as both a traditional farmhouse and dairy farm.
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Tudor Architecture: A Brief Overview
Tudor architecture in England (1485-1603) is characterized by several distinctive features that can be observed in Manor House Farm:
Timber-framed construction with steep roofs
Substantial chimneys
Ornate windows
Half-timbering on exterior walls
These elements combine to create the distinctive character that has allowed Manor House Farm to remain a treasured landmark in Osgathorpe for over four centuries.
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​Residents Through the Ages
Research by historian Samuel Stuart has revealed a fascinating lineage of past residents:
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Late 19th to Early 20th Century:
John Arthur Goodman (1861-1945) and Sarah Frearson (1858-1932). Married in 1884.
Parents of Edith Annie Goodman (1885-1936)
Edith Annie Goodman married Albert Healey Lakin (1882-1933)
Mary and Percy Armett, once owners of the property
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Percy Armett and his wife Mary outside Manor House Farm
World War II Era:
Albert (b. 1893) and Gertrude Abbot (b. 1894) resided in the home. Residents in 1939. They hosted two evacuees during the war (from September 12, 1939):
Gerald Latham (b. September 8, 1927) who returned home December 19, 1941
Harold Latham (b. July 31, 1930) who returned home August 4, 1944​​​
Gerald and Harold Latham (far right next to the girl) at Griffydam School
Present Day
Today, Manor House Farm continues its legacy as a cherished family home, currently occupied by Jolyon and Claire Spencer and their daughters, who serve as the latest custodians of this remarkable historical residence.
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