Popes & Welch Nuttrees

There is some speculation about the accuracy of this listing, but there is enough circumstantial evidence to suggest that the lease dated 24th February 1615 and the two properties highlighted here, do indeed match up. The house behind the High St main row and accessed off Stainswick Lane was known as Walnut Tree House in the early 20th century and later 19th. The size of the land to the south of it matches the lease description. The wording of the lease implies that the two properties are in close proximity, likely next to each other. On the other side of Stanswick Lane was likely to be Popes (strongly suggesting Catholic connections). It would have stood where present day Ivy House now stands, and also the size of the land to the south matches the lease description. 

The Pleydell family were the Lay Rectors of the early Parish of Shrivenham. In the early 17th century, John Pleydell was the Lord of the Rectory Manor, the manor house being situated where present day Shrivenham House now stands. (See N360) The farm that belonged to the manor was present day Sandhill Farm. (See N995). They also held Glebe lands that were property and lands owned by the manor for it's own support. The properties Popes and Welch Nuttrees (Ivy House & Walnut Tree House) must have been part of that Glebe. 

To read a transcription of the lease in PDF format please go HERE