Blencogo

Township in Bromfield parish, Cumberland ward, Cumberland. Absorbed into Bromfield CP 1934.

Acreage:

1,778 acres [720 ha], including c.400 acres [c.162 ha] of common, enclosed 1848.

Population:

rising from 167 in 1801 to stand at around 220 from 1821 to 1861, before declining to 139 in 1931 (last census year for which separate figure available).

Landownership:

one of townships held of barony of Wigton. Granted by Crown to Sir Richard Cholmley during reign of Henry VII; held by Anthony Barwis 1578. Later came to Thomlinson family (Blencogo Hall appears to have been in their hands by early 17th century); belonged to George Reay 1901.

Economy:

predominantly agricultural.

Places of worship:

mission hall at Leegate opened 1888 (closed and converted to dwelling).

Schools and other institutions:

school, founded and endowed by George Dixon 1854; now used as Blencogo & District Village Hall.