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Introduction

In my opinion, local history is far more exciting than traditional history. Although research (usually within the local library) is still necessary, any information found about the local area can usually be backed up by physical evidence in the landscape. This evidence is all around you, you simply need to know what to look for. It is my intention in the next few pages to give you the basic knowledge of what to look for. Once you have this knowledge then no trip will seem the same again!
 
 

 
 
 
The picture above shows a couple of fields and streets south of Copmanthorpe . It is hard to imagine that these sleepy fields hide any secrets. Yet within half a mile of here was a preceptory for the Templar Knights built in the 13th Century and York's first and only airport (built around the early parts of this century). Both relics, centuries apart still survive in street names - Temple Lane and (Aero) Drome Road - these streets can be seen in the background of the picture.
 

Use of Ordnance Survey Maps

To get the most from these pages and to back up the clues from the landscape, I would highly recommend an Ordnance Survey Map, specifically the Pathfinder series (currently priced at £5.00). These maps show all roads, paths, bridleways, churches and will also mark important ancient sites e.g. moats, halls, and some deserted Mediaeval villages. The Tadcaster OS Pathfinder Map even marks the site of the Templar's preceptory of Copmanthorpe and when it was founded !!

The Ordnance Survey maps often back up the clues that are found looking at the landscape. Unless you are the owner of an aircraft, the OS map is the only way that you will get an aerial view of the lie of the land.

One other source of information is an absolute must - the library. Here Ordnance Survey maps dating to before the war and hence before the boom in house building. These maps show clearly the centres of villages.    

Introduction
 Road to Nowhere