Page 30 - Thrapston Life May 2025

GLANCE
AT THE
PAST
Eric Franklin looks back
This month I am looking into a little of the
history of Islip House. Photographed on 22nd
January 2025 from the Thrapston side of the
river (above right), the original building was
erected in the 16th century and re-modelled in
the 18th century. Thomas Squire, whose father
John was responsible for making the River Nene
navigable from Peterborough to Thrapston,
lived in the house with his wife Jane.
The original Act of Parliament to make the
River Nene navigable to Northampton was
obtained in 1713 but, as it contained various
defects in its provisions, it remained inoperative.
A second Act in 1724 extended agreed navigation
to Thrapston which was finally opened in 1737.
Wharves were constructed on both sides of
the river (Thrapston Wharf was the subject
of my “Glance” in November 2019). With the
river now passable from the coast, many items
were now able to be transported many miles
inland, including coal much more cheaply than
overland. As ever, items which the government
decided should be subject to taxation were
brought up and bonded wine vaults were built
under the house. During later works, a tunnel
was discovered at the back of the house and was
thought to lead to the church. As far as I can
find out, this has never been proven, neither has
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