The mushroom-shaped building at 41 Islington is the last thatched building remaining in Trowbridge.
It was built as a turnpike cottage. The British Listed Buildings website states "early 19th century". Another source makes a case for "probably 1768", the year in which the Trowbridge Turnpike Act of 1751-2 was renewed and the road from Trowbridge to Hilperton Marsh was turnpiked. This meant that wheeled vehicles and people with animals were charged for using the road, and houses needed to be built to collecting the turnpike tolls.
It served as such until 1860, at which time it was sold to a cloth worker, Moses Barratt of nearby Trowbridge, for the princely sum of £75.
The building has been a private residence since the closure of the turnpike in 1870. It was Grade II listed in December 1950.
@777margo Thank you-yes has a interesting history. The black plaque with writing on the wall tells you how the toll fees were. (on right hand side of the building).
@bkbinthecity Thanks for your comment & fav. I believe at one point in the 1970-1980's it became the most expensive council house in Trowbridge, but is now in private ownership.
June 22nd, 2016
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