Teddesley Hay in 1817

Description from A Topographical History of Staffordshire by William Pitt (1817)

TEDDESLEY HAY.

Teddesley-hall is built on the verge of Teddesley Hay, which is extra-parochial, and part of Cannock-heath. The waste lands in this extensive manor are now under enclosure, which will contract the enormous waste of Cannock-heath.

Sir Edward Littleton married Miss Horton, May 10, 1752, by whom he had no issue. He was chosen five times to represent the county in Parliament, and was remarkable for his patriotism in the senate, and his hospitality at his country residence.

When the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal was projected, Sir Edward warmly patronized this great public work, subscribed for a number of shares, was always one of the committee for managing the business, and passed the canal through his manors and estates from Galey Wharf to Acton Trussell, a distance of upwards of four miles.

The canal was cut through the demesne of Teddesley, and within half a mile of the mansion, thus affording a convenient supply of coal, lime, and building materials. During his long residence at Teddesley, Sir Edward promoted general improvements in agriculture, and the comfort of those around him. His mansion was noted as the scene of old English hospitality, where plenty of roast beef and good ale were provided for all decent visitors, without riot, profusion, or wastefulness.

The ancient Christmas festivities of Twelfth-night, were kept up for the gratification of the inhabitants of the surrounding country as long as the health of the beneficent owner permitted. Sir Edward died at Teddesley, and was succeeded in his estates by E. J. Walhouse, Esq. his nephew, who took the name of Littleton.