SNN104634 - Desk-Based Assessment, Building Recording and Watching Brief at the Old Rectory, Braybrooke, Northants

A desk-based assessment was able to confirm that the Old Rectory, Braybrooke dates from the 17th century, but was unable to suggest a foundation date for the north wing. Available historic maps suggested that between 1885 and 1926 the north wing was longer, and that the central section of the Rectory was broader than it is today, though no supporting evidence was noted in the historic fabric. Accurate pencil sketches made in c 1850 showed that the northern façade of the north wing had not been altered since then. The main Rectory building had, however, undergone changes between c 1850 and 1870, mainly with the addition of windows and doors and a new porch, when the first available photograph showed the Rectory's external appearance to be as it is today. A north-south building also existed attached to the east side of the north wing up to c 1926. The building survey made a record of the interior and exterior of the north wing prior to its conversion into a new kitchen, lounge bedroom and toilet. The wing has been disused since the 1960s when the previous owners of the house used it for storage. At this date the north-south building was also removed. The north wing was likely to have been built onto the Rectory as a service wing in the latter part of the 18th century. It was further extended prior to the mid 19th century and the existing fenestrations altered. Two windows were added, probably in the latter 19th century, when the wing was converted into cottages from a laundry. The surviving interior features and fittings relate to its use as cottages. Minor additions made in the 20th century comprise electrical fittings. A watching brief was undertaken during the removal of an oak post in the old kitchen in March 2004. There was no evidence of a former stairway in this location.