Late 19th century barn at Parsonage Farm, Wethersfield (EHER 80276)

This record constitutes the barn to the south of the farm dating to the late 19th century. The farm buildings illustrate the development of the farm after it had ceased to be the Parsonage in 1840. Only the Stables are likely to be built before then.

January 2017. Level 2 building survey. This record constitutes the barn to the south of the farm. The barn is constructed with a brick wall and porch of red hand unfrogged bricks set in English bond in lime mortar with the quoins and openings correctly finished with closer bricks. The porch door is narrow indicating it was not meant for thrashing and winnowing by hand but for the use of machines. The upper frame has been entirely replaced in the mid to late 20th century reusing some older timbers but mostly in machined softwood. Large sections of the frame have also been replaced in the past few months as part of the renovation. Hence the exterior is of 2016/2017 in course of being weather-boarded to match the original finish. The barn has a machined softwood clasped side purlin roof of late 19th or early 20th century design with pegged collars and plank tie beams secured with wrought iron ties. The machined rafters are nailed on to a ridge piece and reinforced with occasional gussets. The roof has been boarded and clad with grey slates. The farm buildings illustrate the development of the farm after it had ceased to be the Parsonage in 1840. Only the Stables are likely to be built before then. <1>