Just to let you know that we have updated the fascinating history of Sandhill House Bed & Breakfast and self-catering accommodation on the relevant Blog page. As one of the oldest known houses in the area and one of only 2 Listed buildings in the area, the history of the Manor is absolutely fascinating, with a virtually unbroken lineage of named occupants.
The first named occupant of the site is Edwardus de Sandock, recorded in 1298
One notable recent occupant was the Rev. John Russell a wealthy parson who held no less than eight ‘livings’ in the vicinity. He lived at Sandhill in the late 1700’s until about 1810, spending a small fortune building the eastern Georgian wings, grand staircase and much fine period interior detailing.
The Rev. Russell’s son, also John (Jack) went to Oxford and also became a parson living in Devon. His love of hunting and countryside sports led to him developing the now famous breed of spirited little dogs known as Jack Russell Terriers.
The most influential owner of the Manor was John Williams III 1753 - 1841. John inherited only £100 from his father Michael's fortune and became one of the most successful Williams family members.
From humble beginnings he grew to own tin smelting works, sulphur mines and quarries and expanded his empire into copper mines and shipping ore go from Cuba, Mexico and Peru.
So great was his empire and influence, Gunnislake was known as Williamstown for many years.
After his wife Catherine (of the Harvey family) died in 1826, he caused a scandal by marrying Mary Edwards, his young housekeeper 56 years his junior. Tragically, the couple's only child, a daughter died at the age of four. John died in 1941 aged 89 and is buried in Calstock Church with his second wife and baby daughter.
