Stourton before Stourhead: a History of the Parish 1550-1750

Description

The gardens at Stourhead (Wiltshire) are amongst the best known in England. But what was there before they were planted and the lake was dug? This book demonstrates that Stourton had a fascinating history before the gardens were ever thought of. For example, it is one of the few places to sustain a Roman Catholic congregation from the Reformation right up until the 20th century. Particular attention is paid to the histories of Stourton families, Catholic and non-Catholic - not just the wealthy who has connections in the 17th & 18th c parish. It includes many brief family histories. Published by Hobnob Press, 2019.