Leagrave Cottages
Originally an 18th-century barn, Leagrave Cottages have evolved through time, offering a unique glimpse into the past. In the 1770s, the barn was transformed into two houses, and this significant conversion was pinpointed by the discovery of a pristine George III copper farthing beneath the brick paving near the south gable.
The cottages, standing side by side, have been meticulously restored to showcase two distinct periods in their rich history. The cottage closest to the road captures the essence of the 18th century, while its counterpart with the fenced garden authentically portrays the building as it existed in the 1940s. Explore the story woven into the timeworn walls and discover the charm of Leagrave Cottages across the centuries
The History of Leagrave Cottages
Originally conceived as an agricultural building, it sported a thatched roof with long straw and weatherboarding on all sides, featuring central double doors at the front.
The late 18th century ushered in a transformation as the barn metamorphosed into two laborers' cottages. Chimney stacks and bread ovens emerged, doors and windows found their places, and an upper floor was introduced. The outshot at the gable end, now the Cobbler's shop, also took shape during this period. The Museum meticulously restored the cottage closest to the road to reflect the essence of the 1770s.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, numerous modifications left their mark. Window openings expanded, weatherboarding gave way to lath and plaster on the back wall, and brick infill replaced weatherboarding on the front wall. Front extensions became part of the narrative. The cottage farther from the road stands as a representation of the 1940s, showcasing a continuum of living spaces, even though by this era, the bread oven had fallen silent, making way for a range to replace the open hearth.
The cottages were acquired by the Museum from Leagrave, near Luton, Bedfordshire, after being deemed unfit for human habitation in 1982. Following their rescue, the cottages were stored at the Museum until the re-erection process in the 1990s.
How Were the Cottages Built?
Crowning both cottages is a thatched roof adorned with wheat straw, an iconic feature that encapsulates the rustic charm of yesteryears. Resting on a robust brick plinth, the cottages boast structural resilience. However, the front of the 1940s cottage narrates a tale of transformation, as brick infill replaced the weatherboarding, seamlessly weaving a story of adaptation.
Behind the 1940s cottage, lath and plaster have taken their place, replacing the original weatherboarding. Traverse through time as you observe the rear window in the 18th-century cottage, adorned with blown glass. Glimpse the base of this historic sheet, preserved within the panes on the rear wall.
A touch of elegance graces the windows of the 18th-century cottage, where leadwork delicately separates the panes, creating a visual symphony that transcends eras.
Who lived in Leagrave Cottage?
In 1851 there were 7 members of one family living in one of the Leagrave Cottages Joseph and Rebecca Thomas – Agricultural Labourer and Straw Plaiter. And their children: Emma (17), Esther (12), Caroline(6), Straw Plaiters, Joseph (3) and Dinah (7 months). Interviews with the Marks family who lived in one cottage from 1913 to 1928 are held in the Museum’s archive.