Alkington Hall, originally a late 16th-century country house, in now a Grade II* listed farmhouse. Built in a traditional L-shape with red brick adorned with grey brick details, it boasts a two-story structure with plain tile and slate roofs.
The Cotton family held the manor from the 16th century, with Sir Allan Cotton, a descendant, becoming Lord Mayor of London in 1625. The family’s rise in prominence is attributed in part to their close relationship with Sir Rowland Hill, publisher of the Geneva Bible and a potential inspiration for Shakespeare’s character in “As You Like It.”
The connection between the Cottons and Hills is evident in the architectural similarities between Alkington Hall and Soulton Hall, ‘Old’ Sir Rowland’s residence. This suggests a close relationship that might have extended well into the 17th century. Historical records show the evacuation of Sir Rowland’s library from Soulton around the time of a major battle, with some documents possibly finding their way into what is now known as the Cotton Library.
Rowland Cotton, a prominent member of the family, enjoyed the favor of Prince Henry Frederick. He served as a Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme and held the prestigious position of High Sheriff of Shropshire. His impressive monument in nearby Norton-in-Hales even bears the mark of the renowned architect Inigo Jones – amongst his earliest archtectural work, which is significant for Shropshire.
The Cotton family is perhaps best known for their role in preserving important historical documents, including the epic poem Beowulf and the Magna Carta, within the Cotton Library. Their foresight and dedication ensured these treasures remained accessible to future generations.
There are very important ceilings in the upper chamber of this house, which may show some of the sense of the lost Soulton cielings, as you can also see in Conway.
********
We also visted Tilley Manor, assesed in the Tilley Timber Poject. this building has an intersint staircase, which may have been moved from anther builging…
Intersting staircase in a nearby manor
