Yeovil's Virtual Museum

Withey Bed

A wood of the Newton Surmaville Estate

 

Withey Bed (Parcel 836), was a small woodland forming part of the Newton Surmaville Estate that was not leased out as Newton Farm. A withey, or withy, is a tough, flexible branch of an osier or other willow, used for tying, binding or basketry.

At the time of the 1846 Tithe Apportionment, Withey Bed was owned and occupied by George Harbin. Despite its name, it was recorded as a wood and measured 0a 3r 25p.

Withey Bed (Parcel 836) was bordered on the north by House Mead (Parcel 8925) and on the south by Cowleaze (Parcel 837).

For details on historic land measurement (ie acres, roods and perches) click here.

 

This map, based on the descriptions in the 1589 Terrier and the 1846 Tithe Map of Yeovil shows the approximate boundaries of the Manors of Kingston and Hendford as well as the manorial three-field system used in Kingston.

 

The 1842 Tithe Map showing the Newton Surmaville Estate shaded mid-green and the parcels of Newton Farm shaded light green. Withey Bed (Parcel 836) is right of centre.