South Woodham Ferrers Local History Society

For several hundred years, the close proximity of Essex to London has meant that the county has been a prime target ofr those wishing to build themselves country homes which combine the attractions of gracious living with ease of accessibility to the capital. Many of these country residences were built between 1600 and 1800 and almost 200 such Essex mansions have been identified by the South Woodham Ferrers Local History Society's invited guest speaker, Ben Cowell, who will be sharing his findings at the Society's next meeting on 2nd May.

Ben is Director of Historic Houses Association (HHA) which was established in 1973 and represents 1600 privately owned historic country houses, castles and gardens throughout UK. HHA member houses in Essex include Layer Marney Tower, Ingatestone Hall and Braxted Park but the bulk of membership comprises lesser known establishments stretching over the whole county.

The story of the Essex country houses has not been without its casualties and there have been some unfortunate losses particularly in the 1950s when some owners were simply unable to keep their buildings going : Marks Hall and Easton Lodge being noteworthy victims.  The Essex wedding, now the 'recognised' saviour of many an Essex country house, came on the scene too late to ensure their survival.

Ben Cowell's illustrated talk 'Essex Country Houses and their Owners' should provide a fascinating conclusion to the Local History Society's 2017/18 programme of talks and will take place on Wednesday 2nd May at Champions Manor Hall.  Visitors will be very welcome (admission £3) and no booking is necessary.