11 Market Square Potton

9 to 11 Market Square August 2013

9 to 11 Market Square was listed by English Heritage in March 1986 as Grade II, of special interest. The row of three dates from the early 19th century. They must postdate 1813 as a map of that date [W2/10] shows buildings in "The George Yard" behind the frontage today occupied by 9-11 Market Square, but nothing on the frontage itself.

The properties are built of brick. The listing notes: “May incorporate earlier structure”. Each property comprises two storeys beneath a slate roof.

The Rating and Valuation Act 1925 specified that every building and piece of land in the country was to be assessed to determine its rateable value. The valuer visiting Potton found that 9 to 11 Market Square were all owned by a Mrs. Barker.

Number 11 was tenanted by Thomas Hibbs [DV1/C11/123] who was a hairdresser. His rent was £26 per annum and the ground floor comprised the shop itself measuring 12 feet by 16 feet, a living room measuring 10 feet 6 inches by 16 feet 6 inches, a scullery and a W. C. just outside. The first floor nad a 15 feet by 11 feet 6 inch drawing room and three bedrooms measuring 14 feet 6 inches by 10 feet, 5 feet 6 inches by 7 feet 6 inches and 9 feet by 10 feet 6 inches.

Thomas Hibbs was at this address a long time. He is first listed by Kelly’s Directory in 1903. He is still listed in the directory for 1940, the last for the county.