Martham House, demolished 1972

Built for the Rising family, Martham House was one of the grandest brick houses in Martham.  Made of local Martham red brick from our own brickworks, it was extended in the nineteenth century as landowners became wealthier.  

Tie bars indicate that there was some concern about the stability of the building at some point in more recent years.  The tall sash windows made the rooms light and airy.

Ann Meakin writes: 

Once brick building was under way in Martham all the major farmers displayed their prosperity by adding a new wing to their house and Martham house was no exception.

When you walk around the village notice Grove House and Grange Farm.  Martham Hall had a rear extension. They are classic examples of mid 19th century wealth I think.  Soon after that, farming began to suffer from competition from abroad.   In some cases they built a new house - Manor Farm house in Back Lane and Elmside for example.

Fine Flemish Bond brick work and narrow 18th Century lime mortar indicates highly professional building for the wealthy owners.   

The delicate alcoves and sophisticated plasterwork indicate a typical late eighteenth century taste.

Photographs and text: Ann Meakin

1. Martham House in its heyday
2. Main entrance (S front)
   
3. Window architrave (S front)
4. Side door (W front)
5. West view
6. Ground floor (W side)
7. First floor (SW)
8. Martham House under demolition in 1972
9. Martham House under demolition, no roof
10. Martham House just before demolition.
    

In the photograph below you can see the magnificent thatched threshing barn that possibly dates from the seventeenth century and still stands today.  See also Martham House Threshing Barn.

(Photo: PL, 2020)