A brief history of our Parish
Dunston with Coppenhall is a civil parish in Staffordshire, England, comprising the villages of Dunston and Coppenhall. Both settlements have rich histories and are characterized by their rural settings.
1588
In 1588 Copenhall was home to 120 inhabitants (including Butterhill), The village has a history of agriculture, with 332 acres under cultivation in 1801.
Notable sites include a large moated area at Coppenhall Gorse, indicating medieval habitation.
1817
In 1817 Dunston’s population was 214 residents in 44 houses
1834
Dunston:
The village was historically agricultural, with six farms and a smithy noted in 1834.
Architectural landmarks include Dunston Hall (rebuilt circa 1870), Dunston House (late 18th century), and The Toft (circa 1700).
1866
Dunston:
A primary school was established in 1866 on land provided by the Earl of Lichfield.
Attendance over the years:
- 1871: 15 students
- 1910: 63 students
- 1930: 60 students
- 1937: 34 students
- 1955: 32 students
1876-1878
St. Leonard’s Church, Dunston:
A Neo-Gothic structure designed by Andrew Capper, built between 1876 and 1878.
Features include a nave, chancel, transepts, vestry, and a spired west tower.
2025
Today both villages engage in various community events, including festivals, flower shows, and social gatherings.
For more detailed records and historical documents, The National Archives provides a summary of collections related to the Dunston with Coppenhall Parish Council.
