Thornton Well

There is a mystery behind the well in Thornton church. On the top there is a grindstone put there by Henry Richardson who was rector from 1738-1777. Henry was the fifth child in the family. He had two older brothers, two sisters and a younger brother. He lived in Brierly Hall. He went to Oxford university and was wealthy.

His father Richard Richardson lived from 1663-1741. He went to Oxford as well. He got a degree in medicine and went to study in Holland and was a member of the Royal Society.

Henry grew up in a scientific background. While he was the rector he built the old rectory and tithe barns. He married Mary Dawson in 1738. He had 4 children 2 boys, 2 girls. They covered the well in 1764. The younger sons became either a army officer or a clergy man Henry died when he was rector, after his death his second son also called Henry wanted to be the rector but hadn’t taken Holy Orders. His cousin took over for 5 years. Henry was buried in Thornton.

Does any body else know any more information please tell us.