Family History

In addition to the probate project, the Heritage Centre is a fantastic resource for family historians. Kept in the centre, and freely available to everyone, there are:
1.Census records 1841-1901
2. Memorial register, including graveyard plan from 1600 onwards
3. Burial register 1878 onwards
4. Baptism register 1904-1994
5. A selection of local wills
6. Family trees and histories of the Bourne, Barrantyne, Bryon and Peachey families
7. History of Sarsden House and its owners 1086-1994
8. History of Hastings House
9. Selected items concerning the Barter family

Further archive material, comprising mainly village history – newspaper cuttings, details of fêtes and clubs etc – is kept in the Village Hall. A full list can be supplied on request. This material can only be viewed by appointment.
The material cannot be removed from either place but photography is allowed.
No charge is made but a donation to the Heritage Centre would be appreciated.

Do please contact us on either 01608 658603 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you would like to make an appointment to view any of this archive material, or if you have any other queries.

From Our Guest Book

  • "Very good new interactive displays, very comprehensive."

  • "A fascinating visit. William Smith was a wonderful man! "

  • "Fantastic, absolutely first class. Most interesting and informative."

  • "A fine chance discovery"

  • "Beautiful setting, very peaceful & informative"

  • "A fascinating display in a very beautiful setting."

  • "Lovely spot, so grateful this part of the old church was saved."

  • "Beautiful restoration, very nicely done! Unexpected hive of information."

  • "Great building, well restored. Charming!"

  • "A little gem I didn't know existed."

  • "Such a wonderful enterprise. The locality should be proud of it."

  • "Congratulations to all on this initiative.  So well-organised and user-friendly."

  • "Why haven't we been here earlier? We shall certainly return!"

  • "Excellent to have this centre as a focus for Churchill's history - especially in relation to William Smith."

  • "What a lovely treat to stumble upon. Thank you for preserving a part of our Heritage"