Join the BBC as they explore a lost Devon manor, revealing its fascinating history and hidden treasures
Exeter: The BBC has been digging into a hidden manor in Devon. They’re looking for Columbjohn, a long-lost mansion. It’s part of the Killerton estate. This week, they featured it on their show, Digging For Britain.
Columbjohn is believed to have been significant during the English Civil War. The Acland family, who owned it, supported King Charles. Excavations revealed lead musket balls, likely stored there back in the day. The show highlighted this intriguing history.
Mark Stoyle, a Civil War expert, shared insights with historian Yasmin Khan. He explained how Devon mostly sided with Oliver Cromwell. The Aclands took a big risk by supporting the king. Eventually, a royalist army invaded Devon, and the Aclands joined them.
As Cromwell’s forces advanced toward Exeter, the Aclands found themselves in a tough spot. Columbjohn became a headquarters for the Roundheads. Thomas Fairfax used it during the Siege of Exeter. A letter from Elizabeth Acland to Cromwell shows he stayed there.
Dr. Susan Greaney from the University of Exeter said the main parts of Columbjohn likely date back to 1580-90. Sir John Acland built a large Elizabethan mansion then. Today, only an outer gatehouse and some farm buildings remain.
After the Aclands moved to Killerton, the manor was demolished in the early Victorian period. The house’s location and layout faded from memory. Recent digs uncovered a cobbled courtyard, building remains, and even a sunken garden.
They also found cool historical items like musket balls, 17th-century coins, and a double-sided bone comb. It’s amazing what history can reveal when we dig a little deeper!
