The Hall was the imposing residence of the village Squire and his family. It was in many senses the administrative centre of village life. The Squire's influence over economic and political matters reached into every cottage; his lands provided employment for the farm labourers and his wealth represented power. As Justice of the Peace he dispensed justice firmly and fairly to all.
   A benevolent man, his life was devoted to the well being of the village. Hunting, shooting and fishing were his pleasures and he lived life to the full. His good Lady wife concerned herself with welfare and charity work in the village. Her modest demeanour belied the power she held, for a quiet word to her husband shaped events to produce the results she desired.
   Halls were usually built with slightly projecting end wings and a porch facing South. They contained two main floors with attic rooms for the servants in the roof. The larger Manor House was a much grander affair and typically contained a Great Hall, two parlours, several bedchambers, a large kitchen, bakery, service rooms and stables.
   Largely self-supporting, the estate provided the raw materials to supply the household throughout the year. At the rear of the house would be the flower and vegetable gardens, often walled to provide protection from the wind. On the estate would be orchards and hop gardens.
   The Hall would also be provided from the village with the services of the millhouse, bakehouse, granary, rush house, brewery and malthouse.