THE PARISH PUMP and HOUSE

The Pump and House are positioned at the entrance to the historic core of the village and mark the boundary of the designated Conservation Area.

The dedication within the House reads: -

THIS PUMP AND HOUSE WERE PRESENTED TO THE FLETCHING PARISH COUNCIL BY ITS FIRST CHAIRMAN SIR SPENCER MARYON MARYON WILSON BART

1897

The pump design is rare – there is one outside some almshouses in Turnor Square in Wragby, Lincs, and another very similar one at Binbrook, Lincs. An identical one used to be on the village green in Farmington, Glos, but has been lost.

The cap is decorated with alternating Fleurs-de-Lys and what seem to be Tudor Roses - a combination traditionally associated with Queen Elizabeth I - whilst the bucket hook is formed from a curled leaf.

  • Markings: Possible markings on base, but indecipherable.

  • Manufacturer: Probably Hayward Tyler of London, whose model 442 Ornamental Pump Case looks identical.

The head of the Pump is also reminiscent with heraldic symbols taken from the armorial bearings of the Maryon Wilson family, the Tudor Rose.

The Pump House lies within the setting of nearby listed buildings including Whites Cottages, Old School House and Church Farmhouse, all listed Grade II.

Thus, the significance of the Pump and House as an heritage asset may be summarised as follows: -

  • An artistic and functional building of note in the village of the late nineteenth century;

  • A symbol of benefaction, through the provision of clean water, of a principal landowner of the locality;

  • An illustration of social relationships and structures of the time;

  • The specific link to the Maryon Wilson family and the gift of the 10th Baronet;

  • The record of the evolution of local government and the formation of the Parish Council as the civil parish councils were formed in England under the reforming Local Government Act 1894;

  • A prominent and distinct marker of the historic core of the village;

  • A building that makes a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the conservation area and village today.

 Details kindly provided by Hugh Bullock