Publications
An Aid to Ashburnham Navigation, by C. C. Ennever and C. F. Tebbutt, published 1977 in Wealden Iron Research Group (First Series No. 11, article, p.14) accessible at: W.S.R.O. [Lib 16400] & The Keep [LIB/506558] Download PDF
Abstract:It is, we think, well known how important navigation was to the business success, over a period of nearly three centuries, of the Ashburnham ironworks complex. This is briefly referred to by Straker (Wealden Iron p.372) when in 1664 the rights of navigation from Kitchenham Forge to Boreham Bridge were re-affirmed. From Boreham Bridge there were, of course, navigational facilities to the sea at Pevensey.
Ore mining and transport near Ashburnham, by C. C. Ennever, published 1978 in Wealden Iron Research Group (First Series No. 14, report, pp.4-5) accessible at: W.S.R.O. [Lib 16400] & The Keep [LIB/506558] Download PDF
The Penhurst-Ashburnham Leat, by W. R. Beswick and C. C. Ennever, published 1981 in Wealden Iron Research Group (Second Series No. 1, article, pp.4-7) accessible at: W.S.R.O. [Lib 16400] & The Keep [LIB/506559] Download PDF
Abstract:It has always been known locally that a leat existed between the Ash Bourne stream at Penhurst and the Ashburnham Furnace site. Any relevant documents appear to have been lost, so it is expedient to record this unique feat of engineering.
The route of the leat has been found from those parts which are still visible, time and agricultural needs having taken their toll. Its rediscovery was assisted by the fact that it follows the 100ft contour line between its origin at Penhurst and its termination at Ashburnham, a distance of approximately 5000 yards. The leat would have been dug out of mainly clay soil to an approximate depth of 4ft 6in., with a variable top width of up to 8ft, probably less in many places.
The route of the leat has been found from those parts which are still visible, time and agricultural needs having taken their toll. Its rediscovery was assisted by the fact that it follows the 100ft contour line between its origin at Penhurst and its termination at Ashburnham, a distance of approximately 5000 yards. The leat would have been dug out of mainly clay soil to an approximate depth of 4ft 6in., with a variable top width of up to 8ft, probably less in many places.