. . . . When Walberton Action Group completed its Millennium Map project towards the end of 1999, such was the enthusiasm for another project that the formation of a History Group was a natural. In preparing the map a wealth of information had been unearthed and a number of villagers gave the idea their support. Some information had already been published including "Walberton Past and Present" as well as a number of pamphlets celebrating the hundredth anniversary of Parish Councils. A good basis for further research was already in place.

. . . . The originals of the 1756 Manorial Map and the 1847 Tithe Map were available for inspection in the County Record Office, Chichester as was a vast collection of archival material. The Staff there continue to be un-failingly helpful. These two maps were photographed and then reproduced to a common scale by hand. Identification of land and buildings was possible, particularly relating to properties existing today; a number of these buildings have been professionally inspected and building methods recorded.

. . . . Probate inventories, Wills and Title Deeds have been translated and recorded. The loan of further material would be very much appreciated.

. . . . Some of the older residents in the Village have given their earlier reminiscences and these have been published under the title of "I was there".

. . . . The same Society has carried out a number of digs in Binsted and discovered pottery made in the village in the 14th and 15th century. Further excavations have taken place near Blacksmith's Corner and 1st Century artefacts have been found.

. . . . An Exhibition of the History Group's work was held in June '05 and attracted much interest with visitors from far and wide, many of whom had lived in the village or had connections with it. A number of interesting leads resulted and via the internet contact has been established with families throughout the world as well as with servicemen who were stationed here during the war.

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. . . . Each winter there is a series of talks by various speakers covering a wide range of topics as diverse as Downland Churches, Secrets of the Georgian Bedchamber, the History of Portsmouth Dockyard and the Sussex Home Guard. The majority of these Meetings are held in the Meeting Room at the Village Hall.

. . . . Both the Church of England School and the Churches play a prominent role in the activities of the History Group, each contributing to the history of the Village. .

. . . . Sir Nikolaus Pevsner, the eminent architectural historian, wasn't overly polite about our Village. So be it. We love it and invite you to come and find out more about it.

. . . . For further information contact our Chairman at:- doncarter@btopenworld.com

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Last updated 30 March 2008  JRB.

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