Wistow Warbler       Winter 1178

 

MONKS FLEE FLOODS

The increasing frequency of flooding has finally

forced the monks to move from Wistow to Bury

 After 200 years the last Benedictine monk has left Wistow to take up residence in the new church at Bury, which has wisely been built on high ground.

The Abbot said that the distance of Wistow from Ramsey coupled with the winter flooding of Bury Brook has at times made it difficult for the monks to remain in contact with their mother church at Ramsey Abbey. He regrets that the monks have to leave Wistow but promises that there will still be regular services available for the villagers.

Bury will assume the role of importance in Kingstune and Wistow will take on a subordinate position as a berewick and chapelry of Bury. The revenues from the manor of Wistow are still assigned to the support of the office of cellarer of Ramsey monastery and the manor will continue to be let to farm by the Clairvaux family of Upwood. The abbot maintains the right to gallows, tumbrel, and view of frankpledge.

Floods at Wistow  Bridge Winter 2009

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Althea Walker

Heritage Day 2009