Brantham
Introduction
The first parish commuters enter when crossing the Stour either by car or on the London to Norwich railway line. The village is spread out along the A137. There are Constable paintings in the church. Cattawade, though usually thought of as a separate village, is actually part of Brantham parish.
Many ancient remains have been found in Brantham, indicating that it's been a settlement for a long time. A burial site associated with the Beaker People, as well as Bronze Age artefacts have been found in a gravel pit by Marsh Farm.
Unusually, Brantham retains the same name by which it was recorded in Domesday.
The village sign was presented to the village by Brantham Women's Institute to celebrate their 40th anniversary in November 1990.
History
To be sold or lett, a well accustom'd Messuage or Tenement and Inn, together with a Malt Office, Mill, Mill-house, two Stables, Key and Coal Yard, with other Conveniences, all Freehold, in Brantham, now in the Occupation of George Simey.Ipswich Journal, January 21st 1749***(No inn name provided!)
The 1855 White's Directory lists a beer house run by Japheth Pannifer (wheelwright).
The 1861 Census lists William Humphrey, Beerhouse Keeper, Road, Brantham, Head/Married/67/born Mistley, Essex. (Note, Cattawade is included in Brantham).
The 1865 Japheth Pannifer is listed as a beer retailer.…
Acknowledgements
Some historical information from English Heritage's National Monuments Record.
