The Great House or Amen Corner
Situated on what is now Newgate stood The Great House, or as it was known locally Amen Corner. This building dated as far back as 1565. As with so many mansion-type houses in the area it fulfilled numerous uses during it's long history including a public house, a religious meeting place and lastly before it was demolished, a lodging house.
Seen above in 1908 just prior to demolition, at the time this photo was taken this was the oldest building in the centre of the town.
After demolition some small sections of the Great House moved to Falinge Park, where some still "survive". As can be seen below. In the park next to this door lintel (centre pic) is a window frame section (Left Click on the thumbnail for full size picture.) from the front of the house as well.
The Manor House
Next to The Great House stood the Orchard or Manor House as it was called, due to it's association with the Dearden Family. The Dearden Family were Lords of the Manor since James Dearden purchased the Manor rights from Lord Byron (the famous poet) in 1823. After the death of J Griffith Dearden in 1912 the house kept it's name t even though it did not go with the Manor rights. It was finally demolished in 1922 as part of the town centre development.
Left: The lavish Library of the Manor House. Right: 1914 being used as a recruiting centre for the Great War
Then & Now
Left: 1922 just prior to Demolition. Right: 1999
Last updated 18/07/03