Eynsham, The Gables and The Music Room
Welcome to The Music Room—part of The Gables. The Gables is a historic property located on Newland Street in Eynsham, Oxfordshire. Its origins trace back to the 17th century, making it one of the village’s older and architecturally significant buildings.
The Village of Eynsham
Eynsham is a historic village located in Oxfordshire, near the River Thames and about five miles west of Oxford. Its history dates back to at least the early Anglo-Saxon period, with archaeological evidence suggesting that it has been a site of human habitation for much longer, possibly since the Bronze Age.
Eynsham’s history reflects its transformation from an early Anglo-Saxon settlement to a key religious center, and eventually into a modern village that balances historical preservation with contemporary life.
The History of The Gables
The Gables, located on Newland Street in Eynsham, Oxfordshire, is a Grade II listed 17th-century property built in traditional Cotswold stone. With its distinctive gabled roofs and mullioned windows, it is one of the village’s architecturally significant buildings, reflecting Eynsham’s evolution over the centuries. The Gables has adapted to various uses and owners, while renovations have helped preserve its historical charm. As a prominent fixture in the village, it stands as a testament to Eynsham’s rich heritage, offering a glimpse into its past and maintaining its role in the local community.
The Gables has a rich history, dating back to 1366 when it was part of Newland Manor, originally 4 acres of open land. The house was likely built around 1570 by the Blackman family and became significant during the 16th and 17th centuries when wealthy landowners rebuilt homes in Eynsham. By 1650, John Green owned the property and added three distinctive gables. Ownership passed through various families: the Saywells in 1673, the Wise family in 1703, the Colliers in 1761, and James Swann in 1819-20, who played a role in the controversial publication Weekly Political Register.
The Swann family retained ownership until the 1890s. In the early 20th century, The Gables was home to Major Edward Oakeley, who converted part of the service yard into The Music Room. His daughter led the 1st Eynsham Cub Pack in the 1920s. The Tills later owned it until 1975, followed by the Ferrier family. In the 1980s and 1990s, The Music Room became a community space for local clubs. In 2023, the Short family moved in, marking a new chapter for the house.
References
A History of the County of Oxford | British History Online (british-history.ac.uk)