Wolfhunt House has a wealth of history; it was the place where the Wolf Hunters lived many centuries ago, when Mansfield Woodhouse was at the very heart of Sherwood Forest and an important area for the king.
Deer were very common here, but so were wolves. The deer was a very valuable food source in the village.
As far back as the mid 13th century, there is a record of wolves in Mansfield Woodhouse. In about 1250 Alan de Lorimer held a bovate of land at Mansfield Woodhouse and became the first Wolf Hunter.
His job included warning the local people when wolves were in the vicinity, by blowing a hunting horn. He would also set traps to catch the wolves and before slaying them. The killing was done at close quarters by a billhook and spear and was very dangerous. It was forbidden to use a bow and arrow because the arrow could go astray.
It is widely accepted that wolves died out in around 1500 AD. This potted background explains how important this property is to the history of Mansfield Woodhouse and why it must be preserved and celebrated. The building as it stands today was created in the 18th century with additions made in the 19th century, but at its heart, is built from 7th century stone. Well worn steps lead down to the cellars, where there is a salting trough for preserving meat, along with a bread oven.
This age old property, which is believed to be the oldest property in the village, still stands on the High Street at Mansfield Woodhouse and is testament to what was an ancient occupation.
To mark its significance, a fundraising campaign was launched to help generate a pot of funding to enable the purchase of a heritage plaque. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the target of £600 was smashed and almost £900 was raised. Surplus funding will now be used to provide an autumn half term workshop for youngsters to find out more about the Wolfhunt man and how he kept families safe all those years ago.
After many months of intensive work to achieve planning consent on the listed building and owner agreement to install the plaque, the unveiling took place on Friday 30th August by the Mansfield Woodhouse Heritage Link with representation from The Old Mansfield Woodhouse Society, Mansfield Woodhouse Community Development Group and The Sheriff of Nottingham.
Chair of the Heritage Link, Joyce Bosjnak concluded “This project demonstrates what can be achieved when community groups and committed individuals work together”.
