  Blunham is recorded in the Domesday Book (written in 1086) stating that 4 hides belonged to The Abbot of Bury St. Edmunds and half a hide belonged to Countess Judith (niece of William the Conqueror). The only way that William could ensure loyalty from his barons was to have his family strategically placed around the realm. Countess Judith would have brutally ensured that Norman rule was enforced in the village and around the area, probably with a company of soldiers to subdue the Saxon villagers. Norman barons, notably the deHastings family, continued to dominate Blunham throughout the Middle Ages, and Sir Richard Manlaye, buried in the Blunham church, provides us with a fine burial brass. (Rubbings possible on request to the Churchwardens..for a modest donation...) |  |
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