The Old Forge

Pre-1970.

Tunnel under Ashwell Street, linking the house to the old chalk quarry.

The Old Forge c.2000

Spot the house! Early 20th cent. view, with the Old Forge totally hidden among the trees.

This property, dating from 1825, was originally two small cottages, probably housing workers and their families who worked in the nearby chalk quarries and the Forge, which was used to turn the chalk into paint.

We believe it should now be called Three Century Cottage since we have added extensions in 1996 and 2000.

The people who have lived here

Back in the 1930s Mr and Mrs Duffy and their son lived in number 36 (nearest the road). After that, Charlie Miller, assisted by his son, Ken, who were blacksmiths and agricultural engineers, lived here. Locals also remember Mr Scott who bred bloodhounds.

We bought the house from Trevor Waltham (Mr Snap on Tools) in 1981. We are Allan and Margaret Budgen (née Margaret Ashwell). Our research shows that Dr Ashwell’s forefathers were more likely to have come from the much smaller Ashwell in Rutland. Shame…

Ashwell Street or Kingsland Way?

Ashwell Street is the straight road directly in front of the house and is part of the old road (possibly Roman or earlier), known as Icknield Way. We believe that this house should be in Ashwell Street on account of the house numbers and its frontage.

Do you know any more?

If so, please let us know or e-mail us: Margaret@ashwell.uk.com