Thomas Freer - 1822-1866

Born in Sileby, Thomas Freer was recorded as working as a wheelwright in Mill Lane, Barrow at the age of 20. Later he married Ann Chapman and moved into Barrow. His became a Master Wheelwright and worked from the back of his property. His wife ran a Grocery shop from a room in their house. In his book 'A short history of Barrow upon Soar' R H Bennett wrote the following:

'Thomas Freer, the Barrow wheelwright, did a flourishing trade and was also known throughout England as a maker of cricket bats and supplied many clubs in the district. He was patronised by many of the well-known county cricketers of that time.'

These photographs show Thomas Freer's forge and its chimney. (Now used as a barbecue)