In the West Country lies the town of Chard, not far from a grassy mound - the remains of a ditch and earthworks. This ditch gave the road its name Fosse Way. Chard’s geographical position, close to two rivers, was on a trade route. The Enclosure Acts replaced the old ‘open field’ system… a system that helped achieve proper drainage, crop rotation, and hedging. In 1648, the Manor of Chard was taken away from the church and kings steward and given to Col Nathaniel Whetham, as part payment for services rendered. The manor was land granted by the king as an inheritance subject to the performance of such services and yearly rents - as were specified. The Collins was a family long established in Chard and its sub-Manor Tatworth. Their life was a reflection of many others that made-up England’s rural heritage - serving the land and working in the mill.