Whitbeck

Ancient parish in Allerdale above Derwent ward, Cumberland. Absorbed into Whicham CP 1934.

Acreage:

4,482 acres [1,814 ha], including surviving unenclosed common fell on slopes of Black Combe (see Whicham).

Population:

estimated at 435 in 1688, but below 200 for most of 19th century. Rising from 180 in 1801 to peak of 234 in 1831; then falling to 150 in 1931 (last census year for which separate figure available).

Landownership:

manor of Whitbeck held by Morthing family in 13th century; granted by Sir William Morthing to Conishead Priory, from which it passed to Crown at Dissolution. Purchased by Lawrence Parke 1687; sold by his descendant Charles Parke to earl of Lonsdale 1807. Manor of Monkfoss originated in grant to Furness Abbey 12th century; granted on Dissolution to Hudlestons of Millom who sold it to Edmund Gibson 1738.

Economy:

predominantly agricultural; medicinal spa well at Gutterby.

Places of worship:

medieval parish church of St Mary; partly rebuilt 1883.

Schools and other institutions:

hospital for six poor people built before 1722 under charitable endowment of Henry Park in 1631; building said to be ‘insufficient’ 1779 but still in use in mid-19th century.