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There has always been, of course, a large section of the population engaged in agriculture, and this is still, but to a lesser degree, the case; the lower slopes and valleys round the Mendip table land producing excellent pasture. On the top of Mendip, however, the fields are often pocked with 'swallets' or 'minedered'. It is a bleak desolate region and used only to produce poor late crops, but during the last war, large areas were taken over by the War Agricultural Committee and intensively cultivated to very good effect with up-to-date machinery. The Forestry Commission has also done a lot of planting on Mendip, and in East Harptree in Francis' plantation. There is now a good proportion of other trades, besides agriculture, represented in the village; these include builders and their employees, mechanics, plumbers, shop assistants, printers and others. During and after the war, a great many cottages were sold and transformed into up-to-date residences. This has again changed the social aspect of the village somewhat, and we have been glad to welcome the new blood which has now been brought into the village.
One of the many old farm houses in the village, this one run by Vic Walker at the bottom of middle street.
Another old farm house, Church Farm, bought by the Stobart family in 1988 in a near derelict condition and converted into a comfortable family home.
Home Farm, in Water Street, inhabited by the Hill Family
Eastwood Manor Farm
Harptree can also claim one of the most interesting monuments to progressive ideas in 19th century agriculture in the model farm at Eastwood Manor Farm. This was built in 1858 for Frank Taylor at a cost of £15,000 by contractors called Musgrove of Ireland, to the design of Robert Smith, of South Molten. The many local history groups and others who visit never fail to be enthused by the building, and its associated machinery and gadgets.Sir John Newton used the foundations of the remains of Richmont Castle to built a mansion, and it is believed that Eastwood Manor Farm was built on the site of this mansion. It was erected by Mr Frank Taylor, who married Miss Gurney of Harptree Court. It was completed in 1858 at a cost of £15,000 by contractors called Musgrave of Ireland. The architect was Robert Smith, Emmets Grange, South Molton.
Eastwood Manor Farm
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