Ogley Hay in 1859

OGLEY-HAY, an extra-parochial district, in the S. division of the hundred of OFFLOW and of the county of STAFFORD; containing 500 inhabitants. This place, 
which was formerly only a rural hamlet, was, in 1836, purchased by C.F. Cotterill, Esq., and has since that period become a place of some trade. The grounds have been inclosed, and comprise about 1000 acres, nearly all belonging to Mr. Cotterill, who has let the lands on long leases; a village, also, has been commenced, and some streets laid out, upon an eminence commanding an extensive prospect.

From its vicinity to beds of coal, and having abundance of excellent clay for making bricks, the place is likely soon to become of considerable size; and, being intersected by the Wyrley and Essington canal, it enjoys great facility of conveyance. An engineering establishment is carried on, employing a great number of hands; and there are also a cornmill, &c. The district is bounded on the north by the Watling-street; the Lichfield and Walsall road runs through it, and the old Chester road on the south side; the lands are well cultivated, and produce abundant crops. 

 

[Description(s) from The Topographical Dictionary of England (1859) by Samuel Lewis - Transcribed by Mike Harbach ©2020]