Rafters - 151 High Street Riseley

Rafters - 151 High Street April 2015

Rafters was listed by the former Department of Environment in June 1974 as Grade II, of special interest. The cottage dates from the 17th century and is timber-framed with colour-washed plaster infill and a thatched roof. It comprises one storey and attics and has single storey extensions to north-west and north-east elevations.

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 the cottage [DV1/C217/44] found that it was owned by Lord Saint John of Bletsoe and occupied by W Dickens whose rent was £3 per annum for a living room, kitchen, scullery and two bedrooms. A weather-boarded and tiled barn and sty stood outside. The valuer commented: "Neat".

On 31st March 1951 Lord Saint John's estate in Melchbourne, Bletsoe and Riseley, known as the Melchbourne Estate and totalling 1,889 acres was put up for sale by auction in 81 lots [AD1147/32]. 151 High Street formed Lot 30 of 23 poles and a cottage containing dining room, lounge, kitchen, pantry and two bedrooms. Barn and earth closet stood outside. Water came from a standpipe in the road. The tenant, Mrs Goodman, paid £13 per annum.