A BRIEF HISTORY
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The original building which stood on the same site was substantially rebuilt in the 1850's. This building served for more than 100 years as the residence of the Ewhurst Parish Rector, in the days when large families and private incomes allowed the clergy to live in grand style. Built of local Hurtwood sandstone quarried from Pitch Hill, The Old Rectory nestles behind the church and was surrounded by pasture land - Gleblands - which provided grazing. The 16th century Tithe barn situated at the front of the house existed to store the tithe payments of cereal crops and hay which was handed out to needy parishioners in hard times. This was the early form of 'Christian Aid'. |
In 1955 the modern Rectory was built on land adjacent to the church and of a size more appropriate to today's needs. The Old Rectory was sold by the Church Commissioners as a private residence. It was substantially renovated from 1980 to 85, and a large indoor swimming pool added. In 1989 the owners converted the modernised sandstone house into a comfortable and well-equipped, registered Nursing Home and Theraputic Centre. Much of the old Victorian charm has been retained and cleverly blended with the addition of a modern, single story extension providing a total of 33 rooms. |