The story behind the restoration of Beveridge House
READERS may like to know the further history of what is now known as Bishop Beveridge House after its most famous resident.
Its ‘strange fascination’ was exerted on my husband, Leslie Middleton and when we purchased the ‘pantry’ half of the house in 1963 we were overjoyed.
After very necessary rewiring and the installation of central heating we moved in with our baby daughter in 1964.
Aware of its architectural importance, built of Mountsorrel granite plinth, Barrow limestone walls and Swithland slate roof we were determined to conserve and not to over restore.
Les and his brother, Alf were master craftsmen in the mode of Henry Howe, a previous occupant. Patiently they began the mammoth task of cleaning, treating and oiling the massive oak beams. Those and window frames too rotted were replaced using oak from an ancient church. Further craftsmen from other trades assisted for little pay, all engrossed in the project.
The heavy similarly preserved. plaster floors were renewed and lathe and plaster walls unevenly replastered or cracks filled where possible.
Several huge inglenooks and fireplaces were reopened with much hammering and removal of debris. Tons of stone to be supported while an RSJ was inserted and a beam replaced in one room.
On purchasing the other half of the house in 1975 we were able to restore Bishop Beveridge House to a single dwelling, installing a large farmhouse kitchen and rewiring and adding a second central heating system.
The Swithland slate expert, Maurice thus had a larger job when he single handedly removed, renewed the woodwork and replaced the heavy Swithland slates. Starting in the July of 1976, during one of the hottest summers, he completed the work just in time for whisky and mince pies at Christmas.
Also in 1975 an acre of land became available at the back of the house and once cleared and replanted a garden was established once more worthy of the house.
Our many visitors loved to see our progress until finally and 25 years later the high ceilinged attic rooms were completed.
Les’s vision had been achieved together with lovely antique furniture and fittings. What a huge tribute to all the skilled craftsmen who had given their time and talents.
After 50 years it was time to move on the duty and care now passed onto the next generation and time to start again with the rewiring and upgrading of the central heating!
Bishop Beveridge would easily recognise and applaud, after 400 years his house, so carefully restored and cherished. The house is Grade II listed and bears a blue plaque as the birthplace of Bishop William Beveridge
Lilian Middleton Retired Pharmacist of Barrow-upon-Soar