Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth facts for kids
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Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth is a tiny village, also called a hamlet, located in the United Kingdom. You can find it in Lincolnshire, England, about 100 miles north of London. This small place is famous because it's where the amazing scientist Sir Isaac Newton was born. He lived in a small farm house called Woolsthorpe Manor. Even today, you can still see an apple tree in the garden that might have inspired his ideas about gravity!
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What is Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth?
Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth is a very small community. It's so small that it's called a hamlet, which is even smaller than a village. It's nestled in the English countryside, known for its quiet and peaceful setting. The area is mostly farmland and green spaces.
Where is Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth Located?
This hamlet is in the county of Lincolnshire, which is in the eastern part of England. It's not far from a larger town called Grantham. Being about 100 miles north of London means it's a bit of a journey from the capital city.
Isaac Newton's Birthplace
The most important thing about Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth is its connection to Sir Isaac Newton. He was born here on Christmas Day in 1642. His family owned Woolsthorpe Manor, which was a working farm at the time.
Woolsthorpe Manor: A Special House
Woolsthorpe Manor is a historic farm house where Isaac Newton spent his early years. It's also where he returned during the Great Plague in 1665-1666. This time away from Cambridge University was very important for his scientific discoveries. During this period, he did some of his most famous work.
The Apple Tree and Gravity
One of the most famous stories about Newton involves an apple tree at Woolsthorpe Manor. It's said that watching an apple fall from this tree made him think about why things fall to the ground. This simple observation led him to develop his theory of gravity. The original tree is no longer there, but a descendant of it still grows in the garden today. This tree reminds us of the moment Newton started to understand the forces that govern our universe.
Visiting Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth
Today, Woolsthorpe Manor is owned by the National Trust. It's open to visitors who want to learn more about Isaac Newton's life and work. You can explore the house and see the room where he studied. You can also walk in the gardens and see the famous apple tree. It's a great place to imagine how one of the world's greatest scientists made his groundbreaking discoveries.
