MORETON CORBET: Geographical and Historical information from the year 1824.

"MORETON CORBET, a parish in the Whitchurch division of the hundred of Bradford North, a rectory discharged, in the diocese of Coventry and Lichfield, the deanery of Salop, and archdeaconry of Salop. 40 houses, 235 inhabitants. 4½ miles south-east of Wem.

Moreton Corbet Castle is the property of Sir Andrew Corbet, Bart., of Acton Reynold. It is situated about 8 miles north of Shrewsbury. From its rich remains there can be little doubt that originally it was a magnificent pile; a considerable portion of the walls are still standing, but its roof has been some years demolished. Several dates may be discovered upon different parts of the building, but the time of its erection is uncertain. Although it has by no means the appearance of having been intended for a fortress, it is certain that it was garrisoned in 1644 by the parliament, against Charles the first. The King having possession of Shrewsbury and several places in the neighbourhood, the parliament sent part of the garrison from hence against Shrewsbury, which soon after surrendered to their forces. This castle, after for ages being the theatre of no common scenes, is now sunk into insignificance and dilapidation. Such are the changes of this transitory state !- A few sheep browsing on the bushes that vegetate in the crevices of its walls, serve to point out its desertion-

" Thus do these ivy mantled ruins,
Like hoary-headed age, nod o'er their own decay.""

[Transcribed information from A Gazetteer of Shropshire - T Gregory - 1824](unless otherwise stated)

[Description(s) transcribed by Mel Lockie ©2015]