About Barnby Dun

Barnby Dun is a village with a rich history. The presence of a Church leader can be traced back to 1244, and the Diocese of Sheffield elected vicars in 1925, continuing to this day. The village’s ancient parish boundary was based on tithe and enclosure awards, linked to Thorpe in Balne and South Bramwith. In 1871, Barnby Dun was primarily an agricultural village with a population of 484. To facilitate trade and transportation of farm produce, a canal was constructed in 1732, followed by the arrival of railways in 1845, bringing industrial growth and diversification of work opportunities. George Frederick Milnthorp, a prominent landowner and farmer, built maltkilns in the village, providing year-round employment for farm laborers. The area experienced a boom in the early 20th century with the establishment of Bentley and Stainforth pits, Pilkington’s glassworks, and the construction of new dikes and drains. This led to an influx of people seeking work, fostering the growth of small industries. In later years, the village saw the construction of housing for industrial workers, resulting in a surge in population. Barnby Dun became an attractive place to live, experiencing significant residential development in the 1950s, ’60s, ’80s, and ’90s, accommodating the growing number of families.