EDUCATION IN WINCANTON

 

 

 Were your ancestors educated here ?

 

Since the 1800's log books, ledgers,'vouchers' and attendance records have been kept within this building.  The records held are relevant to education in Wincanton prior to the present building of 1896.  The admission registers have been rescued from the loft space recently!

It was felt that the fragility of some of these precious historic documents deserved professional preservation, therefore it was decided that the Somerset Records Office in Taunton would have that task.  The documents they have received still belong to the  school and they are on loan.  They are all open and available for viewing.

A record of all the documents is being compiled in the school by Mrs Lynn Francis, so far five log books have been transcribed and lists have been linked:- ie. any names mentioned, illnesses, punishments, head teachers etc. in the same volumes there are photographs and newspaper cuttings all of which have been copied.  A selection of 'vouchers' have been copied and a list of information from 'copy birth certificates' etc.

The Attendance Registers hold much information about individuals.  Only one has been transcribed so far and an alphabetic list of names produced.  Most names of pupils have date of entry into school, date of birth, address, date and reason for leaving.  They reveal many interesting facts.

There are boxes of letters and information about staff appointments and inspections from the start of education in Wincanton.

Mrs Francis is busy producing a list of completed documents.  In the future these documents may be photocopied or digitally reproduced on discs.  As a school we are trying to work out how best to be able to produce these for anyone who is interested.  As soon as decisions are made we will let you know.  

Have a look at what is already on site

1. School Bye laws 1870 

2. Details for children starting school in 19th Century

3. Do you recognise any of these children?