Ryde Architecture
STONEPITTS
Binstead, Isle of Wight
The property called Stonepitts was the residence of the Brigstocke family.
In 1851 Thomas, his wife Elizabeth Lydia, and two daughters were residing at Stonepitts, one being Mary Harriette Player Brigstocke, the other listed as E. L. P. Brigstocke.
In November 1868 Captain Thomas Robert Brigstocke RN, and his daughter Miss Mary Harriette Player Brigstocke were listed as residing there. Upon her death in November 1904 at the age of 80, apart from a few bequests, the bulk of her estate was bequeathed to her nephew George Brigstocke.
In September 1860 an agreement was entered into by the Ryde Pier Company and owners of the foreshore, they included: Maria Jane Player, of Ryde House, gentlewoman; Elizabeth Lydia Brigstocke, the wife of Thomas Robert Brigstocke, of Stonepitts, Thomas Robert Brigstocke, esq., of Stonepitts esq; James Player Lind, of Ryde; Anne Lind, of Ryde, gentlewoman. The Ferry Company to purchase about five acres of land, for the purpose of enlarging the approach and toll house, and otherwise for the necessary improvement of the Ryde Pier. Also, they agreed to grant the Company additional right in the soil of the sea shore as should be required for the approach to the Pier, and for other works taken on by the said Ferry Company.
Miss Mary Harriette Player Brigstocke took a great interest in Ryde and its people, she was a benefactor to the poor, and donated much to the town, a small example: A Recreation Ground, Ornamental horse-troughs for the animals, Alms-houses for elderly women, Donations to a variety of organisations and athletic clubs, and much more. She owned St. Thomas’s Church and was often to be seen in the churchyard keeping the graves tidy and the area clear of too much greenery.
Upon her death, apart from a few bequests, she left St Thomas’s Church to her nephew William Player Brigstocke, and the residue of her estate to her nephew George Brigstocke.
2 Advertisement in the local press
January 1905 – For Sale—Two Cows , a Heifer, some Pigs and Poultry, now at Stonepitts, Ryde, also a double Brougham newly done up, and a chaise with new hood, Apply to Geo. R. Brigstocke, 36 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, W.C.
October 1905 – Grass Fields at Ryde—To be Let by Tender the Farm Buildings and Fields adjoining Stonepitts, about 40 acres; together or separately; Cottage if required; can be seen anytime. Offers of £5 per acre and over to be made in writing before October 24th to Manager, Manor Office, Ryde. Highest offer not necessarily accepted.
More about Miss Mary Harriette Player Brigstocke here
More about Captain Thomas Robert Brigstocke here
Source: IW Observer and RSHG Archive
Images: Roy Brinton Collection
Article: Ann Barrett