LONGRIDGE HISTORY SOCIETY

The following article was originally published in Volume 1 of the Longridge & District Local History Society Review, 1974.

Preston Wives Farm house was probably built towards the end of the 18th century. Its pleasing proportions graced Ward Green Lane until its demolition in 1972.

Although possessing many fine features the house had a special significance in that it was a comparatively rare example of a "longhouse".

A "longhouse" has direct entry between the living section of the house and the barn. Hay was once stored above the kitchen. Eventually this space was converted into bedrooms.

In common with many other buildings in this area the walls were of "water shot" stone. Each stone was laid so that its top and bottom surfaces sloped slightly towards the outside of the house. Thus the upright faces projected further at the top than the bottom. This encouraged the water to run off rather than to soak along the mortar layers.

Flags protruded from the chimney stacks to throw water clear of the joint with the roof.

The positioning of a small door at the back of the barn immediately opposite the large double doors at the front reminds us of the time when corn was winnowed on the "threshold" - the draught being controlled by the opening or closing of the rear door.

The following article was originally published in Volume 1 of the Longridge & District Local History Society Review, 1974.

Preston Wives Farm house was probably built towards the end of the 18th century. Its pleasing proportions graced Ward Green Lane until its demolition in 1972.

Although possessing many fine features the house had a special significance in that it was a comparatively rare example of a "longhouse".

A "longhouse" has direct entry between the living section of the house and the barn. Hay was once stored above the kitchen. Eventually this space was converted into bedrooms.

In common with many other buildings in this area the walls were of "water shot" stone. Each stone was laid so that its top and bottom surfaces sloped slightly towards the outside of the house. Thus the upright faces projected further at the top than the bottom. This encouraged the water to run off rather than to soak along the mortar layers.

Flags protruded from the chimney stacks to throw water clear of the joint with the roof.

The positioning of a small door at the back of the barn immediately opposite the large double doors at the front reminds us of the time when corn was winnowed on the "threshold" - the draught being controlled by the opening or closing of the rear door.