The Sheldon Family

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Date:1300 - 1901 (c.)

Description:The Sheldons were an ancient family who came originally from Sheldon, a parish on the western outskirts of what is now Birmingham.

In the 15th century the family acquired the manor of Beoley in Worcestershire and made it their main residence.

William Sheldon (c.1500-1570) married Mary daughter of William Willington of Barcheston; in 1533 he bought the nearby manor of Weston in Long Compton and in 1547 he acquired Brailes.

William acquired Barcheston only in 1564 and after a long legal battle.In 1570 his will,in the National Archives, set out a plan to introduce new weaving techniques to the area, including those needed for arras and tapestry and a range of cloth fabrics useful for clothing. The manager of the venture, Richard Hyckes, almost certainly a Flemish emigre weaver, was allowed use of the manor house rent free and those who served an apprenticeship with him were eligible for loans to be used as set-up capital.

Around 1588 Ralph Sheldon, William's son, rebuilt the manor house at Weston, Long Compton, and it became the family's main residence. As Catholics the Sheldons suffered greatly during the Civil War, but managed to keep Weston until 1819. The senior branch of the family moved to Brailes, building the present Brailes House in 1822. This branch died out in 1901.

The sources for the history and origins of the production of these tapestry maps and other items is limited and they are open to interpretation. We suggest that if you wish to know more please do an internet search for other opinions.

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Timeline

The timeline shows resources around this location over a number of years.

1550s
Bond in £1,000 from William Barnes to John Throckmorton
Bond in £1,000 from William Barnes to John Throckmorton

Bond in £1,000 from William Barnes to John Throckmorton for indemnifying him certain ...

1580s
Annuity to Ralph Sheldon
Annuity to Ralph Sheldon

Release from John Alderford to Ralph Sheldon of an annuity of £66 on Barcheston. [Date ...

1910s
Barcheston Manor. Postcard
Barcheston Manor. Postcard

Postcard of Barcheston Manor from the rear, near the River Stour.