Page 13 - Oundle Life May 2023

Robinson’s Time Team crew even discovered a Bronze Age arrowhead which, together with other similar discoveries, point to Nassington having been permanently settled since prehistoric times. Amongst the most interesting finds are a Roman spindle
whorl, a medieval chess piece carved
out of bone, and the only inscribed
Saxon bone comb ever found in Northamptonshire.
Prebendary was Ranulf de Nassington, who was granted the manor in 1160. Within forty years the manor house that still exists today was built.
You can read about its long hisstory in the next issue.
To book a guided tour between April and October (£10 for adults and £2.50 for kids) or to enquire about the manor as a wedding or event venue: www.prebendal-manor.co.uk
email: info@prebendal-manor.co.uk or 01780 782575. B&B is also available.
The name ‘Prebendal’ derives from
the term ‘prebend’, which related to
the practice of exalted members of the
clergy being granted a house, or even
a whole estate, while in office. The prebendaries did not own the estate but were allowed to keep any income it generated.
Following Cnut’s death in 1035, the estate remained in royal hands until 1123, when Henry I granted it to the Bishop of Lincoln to be used to endow as a prebend. The first
Following Cnut’s death in 1035, the estate remained in royal hands until 1123
Stuart Barker is a professional writer and author. He has a keen interest in local history and likes nothing better than riding round Northants visiting historical sites on his motorcycle.
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