Rag House/Farm Chidden

[janet w]

Can anyone remember the location of this house.

During the 1920's my great grandfather left his farm in Bournemouth to farm here, by 1930 he was back in Bournemouth but now aged 60 he helped his son who had a haulage business. I have photo's of the family outside the house in 1929.
In the 1901 census (RG13/1090 folio 24 page 15/16 it is between an entry for Chidden and West End House. I also have o/s map sheet 59 of 1868 but it is not named on it.
A few years ago I walked around the area spoke to a few people but nobody could remember anything so I was just hoping someone may have a thought.

Thank you

[Kin-getter]

Why not write (email?) in to the local newspaper (The Echo?) and see if they have anything in their archives?

James.

[janet w]

Thank you for that idea. I am thinking it would be the Portsmouth Evening Echo.

[FarmerW]

Hello Janet

I have just come across your posting about Rag House Farm via a Google search of Chidden where I live.  I would be very keen to see the photo that you have as I have not come across any information about the property before it was knocked down shortly after the War.  I can tell you exactly where it is located.

[janet w]

Good evening
I have only just read your reply as I have been away for a few days.
I will sort out the photo's a little later and attach a copy for you
Thank you
J.

[janet w]

This is one of the pictures I have of Rag Farm

[FarmerW]

Hello again Janet

Thank you very much.  An excellent picture!

I have information that says that land was sold by the Westbury House Estate (Le Roy Lewis family) to Ernie Blackman in about 1921 who immediately sold on Rag Farm with about 40 acres to a name that might be Watton (my source was unsure).  Blackman sold the rest of his farm to Lady Eleanor Peel in 1930, at which time I am sure she bought Rag as well, as I know it was part of her estate when she died in 1949.  These dates coincide with yours very closely.

Many thanks.

[janet w]

Thank you for that information. I am not sure if GGrandfather bought or rented.
I do not even know when exactly in the 30's he returned to Bournemouth.
In 1934, his eldest son, died and his address is given as Rag Farm. He was just 34 years old.
Can you give me any idea exactly where the farm house was as I would like to have a look at the site one day.
Thank you
J.

[FarmerW]

The site is now known as New Cottages.  There are also modern farm buildings adjacent.  Looking at old maps, I would say that Rag was sited either between and slightly to the north of the current cottages and the farm building nearest to them, or on the site of the farm building itself....
It is quite possible that Lady Peel did not acquire the farm until about 1935.