The aim of the Downton Buildings Archive website is to record as much information about the buildings and other physical features located within the modern parish of Downton as possible. The site is operated with the agreement of the Downton Museum and Archive, which aims to record, preserve and exhibit various aspects and artefacts of village history.

The initial idea arose when people began to donate photographs, copies of old sales details and other items relating to buildings to the Archive. It was thought that a folder containing this type of information could be made up for public access purposes.

However, there is more information becoming available about the buildings of Downton all the time, and it was therefore decided that a website, which can be changed and added to as and when necessary, would be an appropriate means of presenting this.

In fact, although there are one or two pub stories included, most of the information initially posted on the website has already been published. The donations to the Archive have not yet even been looked at in this respect - I am particularly looking forward to delving into a box of material about The Bull, donated by Sally Scott-Newman.

Many of the newer (by which I mean post war) properties do not have a great deal of information posted as yet. However, I thought it was important to include all of the buildings in the village because, as far as I am concerned, if a house was built on the site of a Roman Villa, the railway or Wick House Estate land, this is equally as interesting as if it were once a shop, a pub or the workhouse.

I would be keen to hear from Downtonians old and new, historians or buildings enthusiasts who may have information, material, photographs, stories – anything of interest really about the items listed. I know there is plenty more out there and I need your help! Please e-mail me if you have any additions, corrections or comments.

Site sponsored and maintained by Paul Leo and Cllr. Jane Launchbury.

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