Holywell, Oxford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Holywell |
|
|---|---|
 Holywell Manor |
|
 Holywell
|
|
| Civil parish |
|
| District | |
| Shire county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | Oxford |
| Postcode district | OX1 |
| Dialling code | 01865 |
| Police | Thames Valley |
| Fire | Oxfordshire |
| Ambulance | South Central |
| EU Parliament | South East England |
| UK Parliament | |
Holywell is a historic area located in the city of Oxford, in the county of Oxfordshire, England. It used to be a small local government area known as a "civil parish." The name "Holywell" comes from a special well that was important to two saints: Saint Winifred and Saint Margaret.
What Was a Civil Parish?
A civil parish is the smallest type of local government area in England. Think of it like a very small town or village area that manages some local services. These parishes have their own councils, which make decisions about things like local parks, community halls, or even street lighting. They work alongside bigger councils, like the city or county council.
The Story of Holywell's Name
The name "Holywell" tells us something important about the area's past. A "toponym" is the name of a place, and it often comes from a feature of the land or a historical event. In Holywell's case, the name means "holy well." This refers to a specific well that was believed to have special importance, possibly because it was linked to Saint Winifred and Saint Margaret. People might have visited the well for its water or for religious reasons long ago.
Holywell's History as a Parish
For many years, Holywell was its own civil parish. This meant it had its own local identity and managed its own affairs to some extent. In 1921, records show that Holywell had a population of 846 people. This tells us it was a fairly small community at that time.
However, things changed in 1926. On April 1st of that year, the Holywell parish was officially "abolished." This means it stopped being a separate civil parish. Instead, it became a part of the larger city of Oxford. This often happens when towns and cities grow, and smaller areas are absorbed into the bigger urban space to make local government more efficient.
Today, Holywell is a well-known part of Oxford, but its history as a distinct parish is still remembered in its name and local records.
