Two Lead Water Tanks On Terrace West Of Newby Hall

Two lead water tanks are located on the terrace west of Newby Hall. They date from the late 17th century to early 18th century and were created for Sir Edward Blackett. Each tank is approximately 60 centimetres high and 1.2 metres long, featuring sides and ends adorned with armorial motifs in relief. The shields on the ends display the Blackett arms, which consist of a chevron between three mullets and three escallops in the field. These tanks were likely used to collect rainwater from the roof of the house. Sir William Blackett, who died in 1680, was a prominent merchant, sheriff, and later Member of Parliament for Newcastle. He owned extensive estates and coal mines in Northumberland. In his will, he bequeathed his eldest surviving son, Edward, funds to purchase an estate valued at £500 in Northumberland, Durham, or Yorkshire, along with shares in various manors and collieries in Northumberland. The estate acquired was likely Newby, purchased from Sir Jordan Crossland in 1689.