The Project
Brief History
Records of Lytes Cary date back to 1255 when it was known as Tuckers Cary (Towkerkary), after the Tucker family who owned it at that time.
In 1284, William de Lyte held the manor and the first reference to it as Lytes Cary was in 1333.
In 1748, the property was mortgaged/ let to Thomas Lockyer. By 1810, it was owned by the Dickinsons of Kingweston, as part of a significant holding in the parishes of Charlton Mackrell and Charlton Adam.
In 1907, Sir Walter Jenner bought the property and spent considerable time and money restoring it after it fallen into disrepair.
Sir Walter left the estate to the National Trust in 1948.
The National Trust at Lytes Cary, Somerset have requested volunteers from local branches of the U3A and the Charltons Historical Society to research the history of the estate associated with the manor house. In particular, they wish to find out more about the historical usage of the land so it can be managed sympathetically.
Project members can access the documents, maps, photographs etc by selecting the 'Enter Project' link to the left. A valid user-name and password are required.
If you are interested in joining the project or may have any information to offer, no matter how little, from your knowledge of the Lytes Cary estate or its surroundings, please email the in the first place - I'll put you in touch with the relevant team member.