Pennoyers - the heart of Pulham St Mary

Pennoyer's School in Pulham St Mary operated as a free elementary school for over three hundred years until it closed in 1988. However, behind its prominent Victorian frontage is hidden a 15^th century Chapel, a relic from the times of the medieval Guilds.

The school takes its name from its benefactor, William Pennoyer, a rich Puritan merchant who endowed the school in his will in 1674. William Pennoyer was not a Pulham resident, yet his legacy ensured the survival of the ancient chapel, and provided a standard of education for young children that scarcely existed elsewhere in the country until modern times.

A 120-page book on the school written by Hilary Clutten, a former resident of Pulham St Mary, is available from the Village Centre team. This well-researched book covers the early days as a Guild Chapel, William Pennoyer's life and times, and the development of the free school up to closure.

Please contact us (see links to the left) if you would like a copy of "School's Out", price £10.00 incl. post & packing.