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Whickham - Dockendale Hall
This 16th Century building is of historical and architectural interest. Originally described with ivy-clad walls, trees and a well-kept garden enclosed by a low wall.
Originally the holding of the Earl of Darlington who sold the estate to Sir Thomas Liddell of Ravensworth (the title of Ravensworth dates back to 1747).
Rumour has it that Oliver Cromwell stayed there for two days during his march in 1648 to Edinburgh to make a treaty with the Marquis of Argyle.
In the 19th Century local farmer John Meek occupied the Hall. He cultivated the surrounding fields until his death in 1840. His family grave can be found in the south of the churchyard.
In 1841 the residents were the Taylor family who made several alterations.
Mr A Campbell was another owner - his sons had various activities in the Village - one raised pedigree cattle - though unsuccessfully.
The Bank then took over the estate and it was sold to Canon Phelps who made further alterations. After his death in 1948 his widow sold the Hall to the Church.
The Catholic Church Authority rebuilt the stables and it became the Church of St Mary's Dockendale.
The Hall is now converted into flats.