Hutchcomb's Copse through the ages
Hutchcomb’s Farm was first recorded as ‘Hundescumb’ in 1284. It’s unusual name – meaning ‘valley of the Hound’ is probably Saxon in origin. This map is from 1890 OS historical records. It shows that our wood is the original Hutchcomb's Copse, with it's distinctive shape shown on maps from 1600 .
We are trying to research the history of the Copse and know it was a working commercial coppice. It seems also to have been used for cattle grazing. The spread of some of our oaks suggest they may have stood in a less wooded area. Neighbors remember that cattle were being grazed on the land when the new Elms Road housing estate was built in the late 1920's to 1930s.
Please share your stories of the Copse !
We'd love to hear from anyone who has stories or photos to share !
The changing landscape around the copse
Housing development started after the war. By the 1960's the area was becoming more urban. Today, Hutchcomb's Copse - the original, ancient wood - is almost surrounded by housing. Housing density on Cumnor Hill area continues to intensify, as both large gardens and plots that were previously thought unsuitable are developed. Green spaces are becoming more and more fragmented and precious wildlife corridors risk being closed off.
Today the Copse is part of larger, ecologically important green space network on the City's outkirts. It is adjacent to Hutchcomb’s Copse and Fen, along with the nearby Louie Memorial Playing Fields that are owned and managed by Botley & North Hinksey Parish Council. These open spaces have survived thanks to the foresight and generosity of the landowners who protected them from development. We are extremely grateful to the previous owners of the Copse for entrusting it's future to us.
When you visit Hutchcomb’s Copse – spare a thought for William!
William Hastings 1817-1893
William Hastings was employed as Woodman in Hutchcomb’s Copse. He enjoyed regular employment in this role throughout his working life. His name is recorded as the point of contact in advertisements and notifications in the Oxford Journal in relation to the wider Wytham Estate and the Earl of Abingdon.
His story, with it's intriguing mentions of the copse have been researched and first published in the autumn 2023.
Map from 1900's
Map from 1920's
Map from 1960's
Map from 1980's
Contemporary Map
