Image Ref : NH 0381.tif

The Mansion

The ivy covered Mansion at 36 Fore Street. In November 1983 the ivy was removed. Ref B2/E16 Prior to 1800 the site was occupied by two properties. The lower end consisting of a dwelling house and orchard and at one time in the occupancy of Henry Jones- Totnes Mayor 1637 & 1651. The upper portion occupied by a Presbyterian Chapel (known as the Lower Meeting House). Later in the possession of Giles Welsford who took down the house and the old chapel and built on the doube site the Mansion which now stands. It went through several hands (see the History of King Edward V1 Grammar School Totnes) until the property was purchased from a Mr Kelland by the Grammar School Governors. The Mansion was purchased for £1700 by the Grammar School Govenors and the school opened in May 1887 with 20-30 boys.