Kennaway House was known as Fort House for almost 100 years. It was built in 1805 and from 1815 it was the home of the Kennaway family - including Sir John Henry Kennaway (MP for Sidmouth and East Devon who served in the House of Commons for nearly 40 years). After the Kennaways moved out the house fell on hard times and came near to being demolished in in the 19th Century. Fortunately. It was rescued by Edwardian benefactors in 1906, and renamed Church House. However, just before celebrating it’s centenary as Church House it was almost demolished again - due to being in a chronic state of disrepair.
In 2001, new trustees with the support of the community set about raising the one million pounds required for its restoration as a grade 2 listed building. It is now being restored and will open again in 2009. i am so glad, once lost, these beautiful buildings can never be regained. England has lost way too many already.
All photos below taken early evening today by Jan Marshall ©
I can’t wait to see it restored!
Kennaway House is Registerd Charity No: 1122667
