Roxton
Timeline

Places > Roxton

14th Century: The chancel, nave and south aisle of the church are all of the 14th century with the west tower being built in the 15th century. There is a 15th century rood screen which has been restored.

18th Century: Roxton House was built in the late 18th century by the Metcalfe family on the site of the previous house.

1697: Roxton Poor House established.

1808: Roxton Congregational Church was founded when a barn belonging to C.J. Metcalfe was opened for occasional preaching. The church did not become independent until 1822 nor have a regular minister until 1823. In 1825 the church was enlarged in the rustic style of other buildings on the estate.

1810: Roxton Enclosure Act.

1820c: The Royal Oak Public House first licensed.

1848-49: Major restoration of the church took place at a total cost of 1,200.

1859: Village school built.

1953: Wayne Larkins, Northants and England cricketer born in the village.

1956: Village Hall built at a cost of 2,000.

1962: The Pear Tree Public House closes, the building becomes a private house.

1963: New school building opened.

1972: New Roxton lock officially opened on the 12th August.

1985: The Chequers Public House closes and becomes a private house.

1993: The last Roxton Steam Engine Rally held, the first was held in 1969.

1994: Village Hall extended and refurbished.

Sources:

• The newspapers cuttings collection at Bedford Central Library.

• PICKFORD, C.  Bedfordshire Churches in the 19th Century. Beds Historical Record Soc. Vol.73 1994.

• GIBBS, Stella ed.  Roxton Village : an exploration. 2002.

Page last updated: 3rd February 2014