AT our June meeting, we had a talk by the well-known local historian, Ken Brooks, who took us through a story, illustrated by beautiful slides, of the history of Ore Village.
This was a 'before and after' pictorial review of the changes that have taken place in the geography of the area and the alterations that inevitably happened in, and to, the lives of the inhabitants of Ore through the years. The word 'Ore' comes from
the Anglo Saxon for a slope, or sloping area. There was a church on the site of St. Helen's as early as 1150, a Saxon church, now marked by a small plaque.
Ken gave us a potted history of the significant buildings of the village; unfortunately only a few can be mentioned here. Ore Place, originally The Manor House in 1361 came into the possession of John D'Ore, and then in 1744 was owned by James Murray, who later built Beauport Park. Holmshurst, first a Convent, then became St. Mary's School for Girls. It has now been converted into flats. Riposo Health Hydro, the playground of the rich, sported some rather risqué behaviour, if the rumours of the time are to be believed.
The Gatehouse to Coghurst Hall, sat at the beginning of a two mile drive to the Hall, set in acres of landscaped gardens, the Gatehouse still remembered by many, was allowed to fall into disrepair before finally being demolished in the mid 1900's.
The White Mill, the base of which can still be seen as a garage of a private house, was 300 feet above sea level, and stood in the middle of a wheat growing area, originally served by five windmills. Fire destroyed the White Mill in May 1900.
For anyone interested and wishing to know more, Ken has produced two fine books of photographs, many including local people, which tell the whole story and much more, and they are available locally.
Anyone wishing to join the Society or pay a visit to the Research Room, should contact Linda Smith, on 437493
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