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The village of Asthall was originally a Roman settlement, with Akeman Street
passing through it. In the Doomsday Book it was called Esthale and was held
of the King by Roger dIvery.
The church of St Nicholas has played a large part in the life of the village and
is architecturally of great interest and beauty. It contains rare medieval stone
altar, an early Norman font and many beautiful features. The 14th century tomb
of Lady Cornwall, said to be the wife of Edmund Cornwall, grandson of King John,
lies under a decorated canopy. In the churchyard a fine wool bale tomb is a
reminder of if prosperity that wool brought to this area.
Nearby is the Elizabethan house of Asthall Manor. This was the home of Lord
Redesdale and his family (Uncle Matthew to all the readers the Mitford books).
The house is approached by a fine avenue of beech and has a beautiful arch at
the entrance.
The Windrush River is a living part of Asthall and a constant source of
interest, joy and beauty. A large number of ducks and geese are always to be
seen, as well as herons, swans and rare river birds. The blue flash of the
kingfisher is always a thrill for those lucky and quiet enough to see him.
Wool and the weaving of it go back to pre-Roman times, continuing through the
Middle Ages the most prosperous times being between 1600 and 1800. The fleeces
varied in length and texture according to the breed of sheep. The river was
invaluable for washing and cleaning them.
Local industries include farming, and one family has farmed this valley since
early in the 20th century. Self-employed industries have been set up by
individual people and several country industries including scaffolding,
building, house restoration, dry walling, painting and gardening. The village is
very alive now with the comings and goings of these industries and a great
feature of it is a feeling of community spirit throughout.
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