Years ago when people travelled between large towns and cities they went by stagecoach and the horses would be changed at staging posts – usually inns – on the way. But they would also have to stop to pay tolls, as roads were privately owned and each stretch of road would have a toll-house at each end.
This is one of those toll houses. It was built in 1760 to take the money from people going on what is now the A140 between Ipswich and Norwich.
Then in 1971 the road was due to be widened and the toll house was to be demolished. Luckily a man called Mr Sniechowski of Ipswich offered to pay for the transportation of the little house – only 20 foot square, to Needham Market.
In May 1972, after six weeks preparation, the roof was finally lifted by a 35 ton crane and put onto a huge trailer. It cost £2,000 to move, needed 22 workmen and could only travel at 10mph. The journey took six hours along country lanes. The walls of the cottage were then dismantled and re-erected within two months.
It was intended as a fishing lodge for the new Needham Lake but in 1982 permission was given for the toll house to be used as a dwelling for 5 years which was then extended.
Luckily during this time the District Council decided that as it was a unique building it shouldn’t be allowed to fall into disrepair.
Stowe Veterinary Group bought the building and in 1986 added an extension for extra space to be used at a vets surgery for Needham Market and the surrounding area.
Initially, newly graduated veterinary students working there, used the bedroom and lounge of the cottage as their accommodation but as the surgery got busier more space was needed for the waiting room and reception.
The Mustard Pot – as the building is called – will be looked after and cared for as part of our local heritage.
Back Tomorrow
Sue
