Ancestral Echoes (1297 – 1626)

Rillington traces its roots back to the Iron Age, a testament to its enduring history. In 1297, records from a Lay Subsidy reveal the presence of ten households, providing a glimpse into the village’s early days.

It wasn’t until 1626 that formal registrations began, etching names into the Bishops’ Transcripts. The inaugural entries read:

• April 24: Jane, daughter of Edward Harrison
• April 30: Marmaduke, son of William Harrison

Surnames: A Story of Migration

Over four centuries, Rillington welcomed newcomers with a medley of surnames. These names evolved from the land, the trades, and even the nicknames that made each individual unique. It was a testament to the village’s openness to diversity and its ability to grow together.

In the 19th century, Rillington and Scampston reached their peaks with 953 and 275 residents respectively. Fast forward to 2021, the population has grown to 1,205 in Rillington and 352 in Scampston. The allure of village life persists, resulting in the construction of new communities to embrace this cherished way of living.

Bonds Beyond Borders

Through parish registers, we get a glimpse into the lives of couples who found love both in Rillington and neighbouring parishes like Wintringham, Settrington, Scagglethorpe, and Old Malton. These unions not only bound hearts but also wove a network of kinship across the landscape.

Everyday Souls and Unsung Heroes

Inhabitants of Rillington led lives that, while seemingly unremarkable, formed the bedrock of a thriving community. Their interactions, the shared stories and the daily grind, were the gears that kept the village engine humming.

However, some notable families left permanent marks on Rillington’s narrative – from knights to churchwardens, each played a unique role in shaping the village’s legacy.

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