Huge Garden Shed Renovation Project | The Victorian Summer Kitchen

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

How many Christmas hats do you count in this video? 🎄

[@Garden-of-weeden]

Not enough! 😂

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

😂😂😂

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

😅

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

@ThatBritishHomestead 😂❤️

[@Summerrose400]

7?

[@Bikelife9883]

Seeing this brings back long forgotten memories of my Lancashire Grandmother and her wash house. Grandad would light the coal fire under the water filled copper (just like the one in the video) at 5am before cycling off to his job as a railway signalman. The water would be hot for when when Grandma would start the clothes wash at 7am. Does anyone out there remember "dolly blue" and what it actually was? It was some chemical in a small wrap of material that was added to the washing water. I remember grandma used to get it from the rag and bone man in exchange for bits of old scrap or clothes.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Wow! What memories.. thank up for sharing them. My mother in law is 85 and she just said she remembers dolly blue, as she used it too. She said it was added to the white washes to keep them sparklingly white, especially bed sheets

[@CricketsBay]

It's the same thing as what's called blue-ing today. Probably same ingredients. And, yes, used to keep the white clothes the absolute whitest.

[@beverly7710]

The building is an old wash house. laundry was done by hand and a dolly tub was used for the washing. A dolly was used to agitate the clothing and a posser was used to create water movement and pound the washing. Whites were placed in the copper with the fire lit underneath until boiling. Soap used was usually bar soap which had to be grated up to put in the dollys etc. The sink was used for rinses or for washing small items by hand. It was also common to purchase sheet-lengths of unbleached calico and hem them (by hand, or if one was lucky enough to use a sewing machine) and after several washes, they turned into the best sheets for the beds ever and also became white, from the original dull creamy colour. Preferably no paint to be used on the walls as the walls were usually whitewashed to accomplish damp removal from the walls. Paint would seal the walls and cause problems in the future of the structure.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Beverley. I’ll be lime washing the walls which is white wash, I believe. We have lime powder here for disinfectant in the cattle bedding, mix with water and brush it on the walls. Fascinating history of how wash day would be. It does sound laborious. Apparently they used to leave overalls to soak for two days 😬

[@RBa-si8nb]

Hello Clare. I liked and subscribed. I love your videos from rural England. They are inspiring. They also remind me of my aupair time 30 odd years ago. You re such a hardworking lady and you have a talent of chatting pleasantly while doing your projects. I live in a semidetached and am currently planning to give the garden a makeover as I have retired recently.

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

What a cool shed! My father cleaned a cast iron pot by sandblasting it once. It left little pits in it that wasn’t ideal for cooking, but if you can’t remove yours to clean it, that may be an option that’s better than hours of scrubbing with steel wool. I know that works. I hope you can save your windows. Anything can be repaired. It’s only a matter of if it’s worth the effort and the expense.🐝🤗❤️

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

That’s promising Deborah. Definitely worth saving, if we can. It feels like it would be missing so much character if the window was replaced with a wooden one. I’m going to try the wire wool first, just to gauge the condition of the wash copper under the rust.

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

@ I don’t blame you for trying that first. Hopefully it will be easy to scrub off. Good luck with them both! I’m going to subscribe and see what happens ❤️🤗🐝

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

@ thank you. Obviously there’s also mostly vegetable content on this channel but I believe this building is going to become such a hub for the garden 😍

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

@ That fine by me! I love to garden too. I grew up on a farm and started helping when I was 5 years old. My health doesn’t let me really garden anymore, but I still grow a few tomatoes and bell peppers by the door.🤗🐝❤️

[@ImGlyn]

As a Brit living in Australia now, this video brings back so many memories of old outhouses & sheds from home. They were so beautifully built with such care & you just never really see them over here. Wonderful video that i thoroughly enjoyed - thank you 🙂

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh Glyn, I’m so pleased you’ve enjoyed seeing this lovely little old Victorian wash house appear on your suggested video page. I can’t tell you how happy the building makes me, and how I regret not having explored it before, so to know you’ve enjoyed me sharing it with you is marvellous. My father in law died in 2021 and I wish I’d asked him about this building. There’s no one to ask now about any significant stories in its history. Duncan said at one point his dad told him they took the side wall and window out to put their first little Fergie tractor in there, before they had the newer agricultural sheds built in the early 1960’s. I’m so pleased they put it back to how it was when they were finished with it. Could so easily have knocked it down and it would have been lost forever. It explains why there’s newer plaster work inside. The roof collapsed in the early 80’s too and they used some farm shed wall panels to put on the roof to keep it dry. We’re unsure which panels they used as the farm has both asbestos and cement particle boards here. I have so many plans to make the space work for my current needs whilst retaining all of its character (and hopefully add to it!)

[@RhondaArmstrong-y3y]

Yes out house or wash rooms where here in Australia but mainly in country home in the out back , my grandmother had one in her house at Balmain Sydney

[@gregpendrey6711]

​@TheFarmyardGardenamazing to uncover the history and the origin of this charmer. 😊

[@ImGlyn]

@TheFarmyardGarden Thank you for your lovely reply. I wondered if there had been another use at some point, when I saw the different coloured brick filled in at the back! It's just wonderful ❤️

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Fascinating!

[@suemowat222]

Are you sure this was a summer house? Looks like a classic wash house.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I say summer house in the video as my father in law always referred to it as that, but I believe the correct term is a summer kitchen, although there’s no cooking stove. Doesn’t a wash house refer to bathing?

[@gaynorprice-jones1826]

@TheFarmyardGarden We had a wash house which was actually in part of the farmhouse. But it predated yours by probably 200 - 300 years. The whole property was built on rock, no foundations, and there were springs running underneath. So in hot weather rather than run the cold tap we would take a jug into the cellar for ice cold drinks. The washing part was an open spring enclosed in 3" high slate slabs. I'm guessing they would step over this straight into the spring with the laundry.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Wow! That’s absolutely fascinating! Never heard of that type of set up. Amazing. There’s precious little footings to our house, which is why you can see the new brick work around the back of the house. We had footings dug and the new “skin” built around the house, tied in to the original single brick wall, to take the weight of the roof. Big job. Looks like a huge extension, but it’s not at all.

[@amandar7719]

Really enjoyed the transformation. When I’m restoring old cast iron skillets, I throw them in the ashes of a dying outdoor fire overnight, wire wool the remaining rust then start with the seasoning process. Maybe it would work for your bowl. We had outbuildings like that. Two huge cauldrons over two brick fire stoves. They may have been used as laundry/wash rooms but we used them for boiling barley for the horses as that’s what they’d been used for during the past 100 or so years as the house had Victorian plumbing for bathrooms and wash stations inside.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thats a really interesting idea for the cleaning of the bowl. I don’t think it can be removed without damaging the brickwork around it, but it’s worth exploring. I did think I could heat up the wash copper from underneath and wire wool it with my heat proof woodburner stove glove on, as it cools down, to see if this helps. There’s been suggestions for vinegar, WD-40, cola, etc. So many options to give it ago. I’m excited to try, but it’s a job for after Christmas. I am so behind on my shopping/wrapping.

[@Tea_and_thyme_2012]

Oh Clare what an amazing little place that will be when you’ve finished renovating it. Imagine being in there with the fire going, having a brew, looking out of the window. Magical, especially when those spring bulbs come out. I can’t wait to see it finished. It’s better than any she shed in my opinion.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Ooo it’ll be amazing won’t it, Debra? I can’t wait. We have a blacksmith quite locally to us who makes all manner of bespoke things. I’m hoping he can make a door/grate for the fireplace. That’ll be a project for next year I think it’s the ultimate, original she shed, given why the building was built in the first place ❤️

[@CricketsBay]

I bet that grate for the stove is in the garden somewhere nearby.

[@eh1702]

It looks more like a dairy or washhouse. Looks like it was still being used as a washhouse till the 1950s. At 11:41, my mother had laundry “clippers” exactly like those behind you, leaning against the wall above the “copper” that would once be used to boil-wash. Those were used to grip boiling-hot laundry to get it into the shallower sink beside it, where you would rinse off a load - or soap and scrub more delicate things. The buckets were probably for bringing water to the copper and to the sink in an era before piped water. A “summerhouse” was a pleasant outdoor lounge & socialising space, usually unenclosed except by light wooden trellises, or on one side. A “summer kitchen” is really not an English concept at all. Kitchens were usually on the colder, bleaker, northern side of big houses, often partly underground, and nobody cared how the servants felt anyway. England’s top summer temperatures in the Victorian era were seldom above 80°/26°.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I am pretty sure you’re right and a few people have corrected the description. I’ll cover that in a later instalment of the renovation. My late father in law has always called it the summerhouse, as that’s what his father and mother called it. This is why it slips off the tongue for me. For 23 years I’ve known of the building as a summerhouse, even without looking inside it because of him. We have a lovely garden room, which some would call a summer house, so I totally understand that it’s not my mental picture of one either. When we first discovered the wash copper (I didn’t know its name at the time) a Google search of the image brought up similar pictures called summer kitchens. Naturally I presumed that the in-laws had just gotten it mixed up with summerhouse. There’s no cooking facility inside, so a Victorian washhouse certainly sounds more fitting on reflection. I had no idea people would have bathed in there in times gone by too. Blows my mind thinking of the stories that building is holding counsel of. Thanks for watching and for your comment 🤗

[@eh1702]

@TheFarmyardGarden If you getbrid if the copper - if it is actual copper then it’s worth a few bob just for the metal alone. But you should consider that architectural salvage yards and antique shops might pay more.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It’s cast iron, only the really wealthy would have had a real copper wash copper. I am hoping to refurbish the inside as much as possible 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@lyndakling901]

Actually it’s not a very old Hoover..the older ones were canisters …my grandfather would hang one in the barn to clean the horses off when my grandmother got a new one for the house!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

What a great idea your grandfather had. I am pretty sure this one is fair bit older than me and my children think I’m old now 🙈😭

[@petermcfadden9426]

Nice work Clare. The Victorian wash house in my north Wales smallholding includes a bread oven, awaiting renovation. It has an ornate brick chimney.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh how lovely! I’d love to see photos of it, if you have any? Can email me at [e-mail] I’m totally fascinated by it. I’ve seen some pics online with a bread oven. That would have been amazing, as I bake all my own bread 😭☺️❤️

[@JanesGrowingGarden]

What an absolute treat that building is - I can just imagine what it was like on wash days in the past. So looking forward to seeing you inject some life back into it. And as for the bulbs - aaargh, mine have still got to go in but they're going to look glorious in the Spring. Well done on all that hard work - it's really paid off!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you so much Jane. Maybe you and Mike will come for a visit in spring, when it’s looking a bit more “ready for visitors”. I know Jo and I would love to have you both over, along with Roo and Ady. I am going for a trip out to Bridgemere or Trentham tomorrow. Hoping they have some more bulbs on offer in there. It’s the ultimate, original she shed isn’t it? It must have been boiling hot working in there on a hot summer’s day but I have this hankering to wash my garden fleeces in that pot now 😂❤️

[@JanesGrowingGarden]

@TheFarmyardGarden definitely!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

❤️❤️❤️

[@annieskitchengarden818]

So I am currently suffering from derelict building envy!!!! How very exciting. 😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Awww but you have the cutest garden room and summerhouse! I definitely have greenhouse envy ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@adysveggarden]

Hi Clare, a lot done and it's certainly a nice big space to store your harvest for next year. To clean it up I still think sand blasting, though it appears for copper using glass beads instead of sand. If you got the local mobile service in they could complete in a day leaving you with a nice clean area to slowly re grout and repair. It would also remove any harm full particles left from smoke / what ever was burnt on the fire and stored in there over the years, what was consider safe 60 years ago may not be safe now.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh that’s a very good idea Andy! The wash copper is actually cast iron. Only the very rich had a copper wash copper. We think the walls are line washed, as it looks and behaves very much like the paint job in the stables. I’ve done a limewash in the stables myself a few times too. It’s fun.. until I got it in my eyes (safety glasses fail). I’ll have a chat with someone on our local community page on Facebook in the new year about it. ❤️ We know the roof was redone, as the original roof collapsed. Not sure when it was done though, so unsure if it’s asbestos or cement boards. Will treat as asbestos to be on the safe side (which means ignore it and not handle it!) 😬

[@michelleskitchengardendiar6934]

Fantastic work Clare and Duncan, what a transformation WOW look forward to seeing what's next. Take care for now Clare and family

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Michelle. It’s a big step in the right direction ❤️

[@markthompson180]

Looks like a very nice project. I really like the old brick on that shed. I'm sure it is going to look great once you finish fixing it up!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank Mark. It’s really quaint isn’t it? I’ve been surprised to see it’s had some work done over the years to raised the front of it to form a slope. There’s a gulley at the back for water draining built into the roof. Needs some pointing in places. So many plans in my mind.. it’s going to be hard to stick being realistic for its future use, and not just want to get carried away creating a magical step back in time Thanks for watching 😊

[@RobynCollis]

Yes! My mum had a copper, but it was made of copper. Washing day was quite an undertaking!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oooo Robyn, very well to do family.. only the wealthy had real copper. Lovely ❤️

[@brendamiller523]

Hi Claire it was an old wash house my gran had one when I was a little girl and she used to let the fire out on the copper first the the last of the water she scoped out out with an old saucepan then wiped the last bit out with a cloth. Also I think you threw the grate front away in your first barrow of rubbish .Your little wash house takes me back to my childhood great memories.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

That grate front I put under a farm building (didn’t throw that away) was actually to a coal fire they had in the house. It is much too wide for the opening of this little fireplace. I did try to see if it would fit, sadly not. A few comments have correctly labelled it a Victorian wash house now. I’ll reference that in a later video, thank you. Initially when I did a picture search it came back with summer kitchen as a name, which fitted with my late father in law always calling it a summer house. I can see that was incorrect now 😊 Apparently they used to always swill the floor off with the last of the hot water before leaving, which is why there’s the big drain hole in the corner. The floor slopes quite a bit down to it It’s a lovely historical building. I’m so glad it brought back memories for you too. Thanks Brenda ❤️

[@patdelaney191]

I thought nooo, don't throw the birdcage away, could have been used as a plant protector or decoration 😂. It's a good job we are all different, I love a good skip rummage 👍

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh a plant protector!! I NEVER gave that a thought! Wonder if we can find it in the skip 🤣😮

[@madrabbitwoman]

Lol I was yelling "don't throw out the wood it's free fuel" and then the red tote came into use

[@madrabbitwoman]

Felt the same about the birdcage too 😂

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

There was a certain level of irony of me saying farmers can’t throw anything away and then immediately deciding not to throw something away myself 😂😂 I never gave it a thought or keep the bird cage for that use! I cloche everything anyway. Silly me.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

😬🙈🙈🙈

[@canadiangirl826]

Well, this looks exactly like something that I would tackle! So satisfying to see something being restored!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I hope we can do it justice, whilst also giving the building a new purpose that suits my needs on the vegetable garden ❤️

[@bewoodford2807]

Well done Clare. That's fabulous work. You have achieved so much in just a few hours. Duncan did a marvellous job on the roof too. It is starting to look like a really lovely space. How exciting! Great that the chimney is working too. Happy growing 🙂

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you. I’m so pleased with it. I can’t believe how quickly Duncan cleared the roof. He thought it was going to take him a week and it was done in under 2 hours. Amazing I’m so excited. It’s the original she shed, given its original use ❤️

[@moorsidegardener]

I can't wait to see how this project turns out, it's such a gorgeous little building. Having a food storage space like this, next year will be fantastic. ❤

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It’s going to be amazing isn’t it? I’m so over the moon with it and can’t quite believe it’s been there waiting to be discovered all these years ❤️❤️

[@valrackley4568]

What a great video and what a beautiful old building love your videos Clare you are both making things look easy

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh wow!! Thank you. What lovely high praise, Val. I really enjoyed watching this building emerge from decades of neglect. Cannot wait to get cracking on properly on it early in the new year ❤️❤️

[@martemacdougall1985]

Wish I was there .. I do miss my garden and the raking up and bulb planting. I still have some herbs and small shrubs in big pots on the roof deck of my apartment building. It's not the same. But great fun watching you two crack on. I would probably scrub the "basin" with a wire brush and olive oil. Don't put soap or chemical cleaners into it !!! When all visible dirt has been scrubbed off, boil water in it and then empty it, dry it and add a cup of olive oil, and heat the heck out of it for a couple of hours (like seasoning it) Then let it cool and wipe it out with a clean cloth. Should now be ready to be a wash tub. Good luck.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I love this approach to it. Sounds so gentile to it… albeit a lot of elbow grease for me. 😅😂 Going to work on it after Christmas. I’m so excited ❤️❤️ I can imagine you do miss a garden in an apartment but it sounds very much like you’re brightening up your roof deck well. I can only imagine the view you get from up there, Martem, too 🤗

[@annpryce6476]

Wow! Some amount of work to clear the building, but what a thorough job you've done. I love the organised way you work, leaving nothing behind. It will be well worth the effort. Hope your back is ok after all that lifting and clearing.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

You’d never believe this.. but my house is so untidy. I don’t have the same work ethic indoors.. unless I am on a mission and then no one dares leave even a crumb behind, I’ll spot it! 😂🙈 I’m all good after the clearing. So rewarding. I didn’t think it would so easily go from junk room to clean space. Really pleased how it turned out. Next step, sort out the door and the window. 🙈

[@pennythompson4790]

OMG what a great space to work in its amazing well done xx

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you Penny. I’m so excited and cannot wait to do a final reveal when it’s all finished ❤️❤️

[@pennythompson4790]

@TheFarmyardGarden Me too I would love a place like that to do my potting upxx

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I’ll be spoilt for choice soon, as I do have the greenhouse for that too 😂

[@Ragt0p]

How very cool! This is my favorite type of content (well, in addition to gardening, of course) - can’t wait to see what you make of it!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video, as much I enjoyed watching the building emerge from under the vines and years of junk. ❤️

[@VivSimmons]

What a super satisfying video. You must sleep well at night😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Aww what a lovely thing to say, glad you enjoyed it. I sleep well if there’s no snoring happening (cat or husband) 😂😂

[@TheGrowUpChannel]

I'm excited to see this come to life clare! Lovely idea to plant spring bulbs outside. It's going to be a wonderful building with plenty of charm! Not at all jealous! 😅 Danny 🌱

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I was hoping you’d have some suggestions on cleaning the wash copper and window. I’d love to salvage them but no idea what is the best product to use for the job. I think the old iron window has an extra level of character to it, so don’t want or have to swap it for a wooden one 🙏🏻🙏🏻 Duncan brought home more bulbs and I have been eyeing up some bulk buy tulips too. It’s the ultimate, and original she shed isn’t it? (Given its original purpose)

[@soniawoolley366]

Yes - looking forward to seeing the walls etc pressure cleaned then painted !!!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It’s going to look very different and clean after a lick of paint isn’t it? ☺️

[@tuhesse]

The tiles are amazing. Hope you didn't throw out!!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Noooo I kept them. I’ve used a few around the garden already, under the greenhouse staging mostly 🙈😂 Oh wait.. you mean the bathroom ones? They’re in the skip 😬😬😬😱 I didn’t think anyone would want those They’re the floor tiles underneath very ugly carpet my mother in law has in her kitchen

[@sheilaackers3854]

Looks great love that old building. Great space.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you, Sheila. I love it too! Can’t believe what was hidden in there all this time ❤️

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

When I moved into my house which was built in the 1920s the people that were here before me died and it was left up to their son to empty the house. He had lost his brother and his mum the same day due to an accident. So we said to him don't worry about it will clear the house. One of my best experiences of this house was going through all of their old just basically junk. We threw away all of it. It was just so interesting going through and seeing someone else's life..

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It is fascinating isn’t it? I was hoping for something really cool but disappointed to realise it was the building used for hoarding those useless things you tell yourself you may need one day 😂

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

@ I think them tiles were so nice I can't believe you binned them you could have redone you kitchen with them!

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

Wow, Duncan, look at that flexing. A skip for Christmas almost as bad as when bob got me a bin for my birthday.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Best Christmas present! The junk I’ve cleared out of the house too 😱😂😂❤️❤️

[@DadsPassedDownPlot]

Wow it’s such a find well worth renovating

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I agree with you! Really need to do it justice ❤️

[@Lisa.Gypsy.C]

A lot of progress made in just a few short days, 🌿💚 those spring bulbs are going to look amazing Claire 🌸

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I can’t wait for those spring bulbs Lisa. I have a very misty eyed feeling about what I want this space to look like in the months/years ahead. ❤️

[@jenw5854]

I can’t believe how much garbage was in that tiny little building! You got a lot of work done!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Me too! It was like a tardis wasn’t it? (Dr WHO reference, if you’re not from the UK). I’m so excited to move on to the next stage. ❤️

[@jennyfromtheplot]

Wow what a clear out! Great job Clare!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Jenny. I’m excited to get to work in there ❤️

[@christinebrooks6364]

Hi Clare, love your hat and what a beautiful place you have ❤ i love this time of year as you can find time to do tidy up jobs and planning too seems growing has slowed down for now. Good clearing up of the shed and roof,,love the little fire too. Looking forward to watching your progress. Thanks for sharing and take care 😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hi Christine. I hadn’t realised quite so much of the farm buildings were on display in the background until I was editing it. We are certainly very lucky to live where we do (apart from the major road running through the farm of course). I’m so over the moon with the shed. Watching it come back to life again is quite the privilege. I hope we can ensure it remains an asset to the property and garden for many years to come ❤️ Take care.. see you for one final harvest of 2024 next weekend ❤️

[@elizabethjames1053]

Wow bigger than I thought now it's cleared , can't wait to see it finished love it 😍

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Yes just over 8ft x 8ft square. A decent shed size. It’s so tall though. I wonder when it was built up to raise the height. There’s so much history and I wish we’d thought to do this before my father in law died 😭

[@gardentothekitchenwithtracy]

What a amazing job you both are doing to restore it, and a brilliant space. I can’t wait to see what you do with it, have a great week Tracy 😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Tracy. No way could have I have cleared the roof with a pair of secateurs and brute force. Duncan was a star. It’s funny seeing it so prominent now, as it’s never really been visible before the last few months Hope you survived the storm ok last week. Have a fabulous week too 🤗

[@BarbaraHarris-dy3dv]

Love what you are doing with the out house. Cant wait to see it progress. Copper boiler is very interesting.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you Barbara. I have so many plans. Duncan is rolling his eyes at me, whilst also being fully on board with my fantasy for the building. Current project is trying to source a decorative mangle 😂❤️❤️❤️

[@ivandickson6063]

​@TheFarmyardGarden For the copper boiler I think I would give it a clean down with a wire brush and paint it with a black paint, or get the brasso out !

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

@ thinking wire wool by hand to start with and maybe on a drill if it doesn’t seem too damaged under the surface. Not sure brasso would help it. Whilst it’s called a wash copper, it’s actually made of cast iron. Only the very wealthy would have had a real copper version 😊

[@debz_vegplot]

Wow, that is an incredible building. I would be so excited to find something like that as well, so i'm definitely waiting to see the renovation taking shape 😁

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It is so weird to see it standing so prominently from the dog garden (behind the fence next to it) when in the house. It was so hidden by vines and trees only a few months ago. I remember Duncan battled undergrowth to put up the bug house for me. I used to want the soil around the base of that yew tree to have shade loving plants (ferns/hostas) out there and make a stumpery.. now it’ll be getting way too much sunlight for that 🙈😂

[@debz_vegplot]

@TheFarmyardGarden So many people would just pull it down, so it's lovely that you're reviving it. The history behind buildings fascinate me so much. I have to say i'm pretty jealous looking at it even in it's current state, well i mean before you started on it of course 😂.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh it’s still a state! I really needs some love still. It’s going to take a lot of work. We don’t know when the roof was re-done. Mary (mother in law) remembers them doing it as a tree fell on the old roof but she can’t remember how old Duncan was.. this means we’re not sure if it’s pre-80’s. Hard to tell asbestos from cement particle board without testing it

[@debz_vegplot]

@TheFarmyardGarden I wouldn't know how you go about testing it. Still a great project though 🥰

[@JoesPatch]

The summer house/kitchen is so cool, loved it in the first video when you were showing it. Interesting history.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Joe. I really, really need to source a wash mangle for a decorative planter outside 😱😍

[@JoesPatch]

@TheFarmyardGarden used to see loads in front gardens round here 😄, guess most have rotted over time and been got rid of. Now I'm getting towards the end of the video I think I need one of those elf hats 😂. Yea don't you go up there, just send Duncan 😮😂

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

He even wore long trousers for this mission! 😂 I’ve seen a few on marketplace, sadly way too far away though 😭

[@deirdrecurran1780]

You are very lucky to have such a beautiful house to work on. I have just discovered your channel and I am looking forward to seeing your next projects.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hello Deirdre, welcome to the channel. My channel is mostly gardening really, but there’s lots of plans for improvements there too 😊

[@shervajoseph-kelly2275]

Wow, you did a great job, you’re a hard worker!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you. It didn’t take as look as I thought it would ❤️

[@shervajoseph-kelly2275]

@ I can’t wait to see the finished product, it will be your little Girl Cave 😀

[@SharonBrookes-y6w]

Claire totally loved watching this video! Can’t wait to see the end result. What I’m struggling with is sir Duncan in long trousers 😂 Well done you x

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Let me tell you, I’m with you there! It’s a weird and wonderful sight for me too! 😂😂😂 I’m so excited by this room. It’s going to be so useful ❤️

[@SharonBrookes-y6w]

Not just useful but magical! I think each and every one of us have our own vision of what it will look like. Personally I’m hoping to see those old wooden or wrought iron dryer’s nestled high with your flowers drying! I do have other ideas too but I know you will do an amazing job of it and I’m invested all the way! Looking forward to watching you transform this idyllic space.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I think that would be a great idea, Sharon. I can picture that too. I can just tell I’m going to get carried away 😂❤️❤️❤️

[@charmainemanley]

What a difference clearing out the building made. Do you plan to open up the bricked in windows? Looking forward to seeing more progress.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hi Charmaine. I had no idea there were so many bricked up windows until we started clearing it. The window that remains was hidden by a half collapsed wooden garden shed when we first started. I’m not sure about opening them up yet. Depends how we decide to fit it out inside, as windows would limit the ability to fix things to walls. I do like the idea of the big window at the back being put back in and the small one by the door would enhance the visual appeal. I don’t think that’s an immediate thought though.

[@Jacqui-Pen]

Job well done, Clare. And Duncan, of course. Not sure if you had 5 hats 😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Jacqui. Can you believe it only took Duncan less than 2.5 hours to clean the roof? I couldn’t believe how quickly it came away. It over faced me when I first saw it. Blown away. I think it was six hats. Christmas Pudding, two Santa hats, a Christmas tree hat and two caps 😂❤️

[@AnyKeyLady]

Wow you both have been so busy! You reminded me of Mr Benn with all of those different hats on!😆 The shed will look amazing when it has been fully restored. Did the roof have any hidden leaks since you took the moss, etc off the roof? Hope your back wasn't too bad after lifting those things into the skip?! I so love this project you are doing as i love this kind of history and how we used to live. Did you ever watch that series with the lady and two men who did cooking, farming etc through the era's? Such a great and fascinating watch. Take care and have a lovely week!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

The roof seems ok, thankfully. There’s some pointing that needs doing around the gulley but that’s a job for spring and drier weather. Back survived ok, thankfully. The barrow didn’t fair quite so well 😂 I am so pleased it’s the type of thing you enjoy watching too. I really hope it’s going to prove to be a huge bonus to the vegetable garden ❤️❤️ Hope you have had a lovely week. Can’t believe there’s only one more weekend before Christmas. 🎄

[@AnyKeyLady]

@TheFarmyardGarden Oh that's great news Clare. Yes a lot of it can wait until next year but it is a first big step. It all takes time. I can just see you washing your veg and storing your squash and root veg in there. You might even have room to have something to hang dry things like herbs, garlic and stuff. If you can get hold of an old wooden coat stand you can convert it with extra dowling to hang stuff on, like those tea cup stands. Or like those extendable washing lines that you put over the bath but with stronger para cord. Oh don't! I still need to get hubby and my Dad something for Christmas. They can be so hard to buy for!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I love the idea of a drying rack. I think that needs to happen! Been suggested a few times, you’re all geniuses for thinking of it ❤️❤️ Squash storage will be amazing won’t it? I’m so happy. A few things will need to be in place to keep rodents out, so that’ll be a priority, but there’s so much potential I’m hoping to go and get some bits with Duncan today… I’m so unorganised 🙈😂🎄

[@georgemartin9618]

Great video Clare, you're a natural born narrator. The wash bowl could double up as a soil steriliser if you're not planning to go into the laundry business.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

So George, high praise. Thank you! ☺️🤗 I really do want to refurbish the wash bowl. It could have so many gardening related uses couldn’t it? ❤️ I’m not sure I’m cut out for hand washing bed linen 😂

[@susiespearing6165]

Your a little power house Clare ! Great job and it's going to be super 😁

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Susie. It was surprisingly quicker to empty than we expected, especially the vines on the roof. So excited about how it’ll finish up ❤️

[@Feelgoodgardens]

What a fab update on the summer house Clare 😍 It looks so different now. I'm so excited to see how it progresses. I'll certainly be watching this project so it's a thumbs up from me 👍😄 Duncan is a great help isn't he, always handy to have a man around 😂 That must have been a job and a half getting all that ivy from the roof and walls phew! Well done Duncan 👏👏👏 You even managed a bit of gardening so well done you and especially the clearing of the summer house 👏👏👏 I'd have probably rescued and used some of that junk e.g Welly planters and a sacking planter 😂 That's why you have a tidy plot and I don't 😂 5 changes of hat I think it was? 😂 Have a fabulous week ❤️ xx

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I was hoping someone would pick up on the sheer irony of me saying farmers can’t throw anything away.. then immediately cutting to me saying “I was going to throw this tub and kindling away.. but I’ll keep it” 😂😂😂 The vines in the roof weren’t all ivy, thankfully, as ivy really sticks to things and damages it. I think Duncan would have gone on strike if it was 😂 I’m so pleased you have enjoyed the video and I really do look forward to turning this lovely old building in to a useful storage space for the vegetable garden too. I have this vision of washing the garden fleeces in the wash copper 😱❤️❤️ Can you believe there’s only one more Sunday before Christmas? Where has the time gone? Have a great week xx

[@dogontheplot]

Stonking video clare!!! My goodness what a huge job. Well done. Loved the fire at the end ❤

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Kerry. ❤️ That fire needs some work but there’s definitely hope for it isn’t there? I’m so excited about what’s to come with it ❤️❤️

[@sarah3136]

Looking forward to this transformation! 🤗

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Me too, Sarah, me too ❤️❤️🤗

[@ireneromero5326]

Looking forward to seeing more progress 😀!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Irene. I’m looking forward to doing more with it too and sharing it ❤️

[@irishdancer2753]

Hello, I enjoyed your video, with cleaning out and planting your bulbs. Thank you for sharing….

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you for watching 😍😊

[@indoorsyren3955]

My house was built in 1805 and it still has the original summer kitchen. The fireplace is huge and it still has the original pot hooks, although they are no longer functional. I recently had the foundation rebuilt, a floor poured, wiring and insulation installed, and now it is being drywalled. Next comes paint and then flooring. I will build bookshelves all along two walls, and I will use the room as a library. I am going to subscribe to see how you fix up yours!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh wow! Yours sounds amazing and so much bigger than this. I believe mine is actually only. Victorian Wash House now but still very exciting to find, nonetheless. I would love to know when or why the floor was poured in this one too, as it’s had quite a bit of work done at times, so they must have cared to keep the building before finally letting it fall neglected. I’d love to see photos of yours! I can be emailed, my email address is in my channel info Thank you so much for subbing ❤️

[@myrustygarden]

It’s funny because yesterday we watched part one of a Victorian Christmas 🤶 and they had added a new wash house and it looked just like yours. Fab job Clare and look forward to seeing all the pictures of the house. Great to have a big bin to pop it all in. How’s that back doing today Clare mine was hurting watching you. We have all our windows with panes like that but all are aluminum. I would move it so the window area seems more “open”. Poor Sir Duncan of the Pants like Gerald he just digs in 💪💪. Have a fantastic week guys, stay warm and safe, Ali 🌞🥶🥶🇨🇦

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oooo I feel I need to watch this! It’ll be especially fascinating to watch now. This seems to be the original “she shed”. My back is fine, surprisingly. Face not so fine.. an exuberant Dexter has done a good clawing number right down my face today. I like the style of the window. I think it adds to its appeal. Hope we can restore it. I agree that it certainly seems brighter and more open with that wardrobe shifted across to the back wall. 🙌🏼🙌🏼 Duncan in long pants again. Unbelievable eh? Hope you and Gerald are staying warm and dry too x

[@myrustygarden]

@ Gerald says sandblasting but if you don’t that option sadly a big wire brush for cleaning steel etc and elbow grease 💪💪

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I don’t think we can take it out, as it’s integral to the construction of the fireplace. Removing it would damage it for good I think. Will have to see if it can be blasted in situ but will try a wire wool and wire brush. Also been suggested to use the brush on a drill attachment. I actually think Duncan has one of those already ❤️

[@myrustygarden]

@ yes Gerald has a “grinding brush” too 🤦‍♀️ of course these men do 🤣🤣. Victorian Christmas Farm is probably on KZbin

[@Garden-of-weeden]

@@myrustygarden Ali I have said brushes 😂😂😂

[@lmk1966]

just watched yr video for the first time will be watching for more

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you so much. ❤️

[@johndeakin7401]

Love your video a to night well done in cleaning the shed Hope you have a lot of fun in the shed Merry Christmas love John from Scotland

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you John. I’m so excited to see how it develops. Merry Christmas to you and yours. Are you likely to get a white Christmas in your area of Scotland?

[@wendymaybury6329]

Hello, I've just come across your video. You are my kind of gardener. You are doing exactly what I would do and mix all the bulbs together, they will look great 😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hello Wendy 👋🏼 Got to mix them to get a nice display haven’t we? I need more tulip bulbs to mix in too. If you’re in the UK, Blue Diamond Garden Centres are now selling off packs of bulbs for £1. I got 12 more packets of the Purple Sensations Alliums. 15 bulbs per pack 😱😱😱

[@signemarkuson1940]

I love that kid of work you're doing

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you. I have so many projects in the garden over the coming months. The washroom is most definitely going to be the hub of the space

[@michelleskitchengardendiar6934]

Ohh I have been waiting for this clare

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Yay! I’m pleased you were looking forward to this video. I have so many visions for this space. Not sure all are attainable by me, but I’m for the challenge! 😂❤️

[@RosieWard-cj7xi]

New subscriber here! I just came across your channel. This is the kind of work I love to do (cleaning and renovating) I’m looking forward to the continued progress of your project.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hi Rosie, thank you for subbing. ☺️ Whilst this channel is mostly about my vegetable gardening, this building will heavily feature as a very central hub to the garden space. I’m looking forward to giving it centre stage, main character appreciation ❤️❤️

[@middlelle]

Looks like the Hoover my mum got for Christmas in 1977. She used it until she gave it to when I got married in 1994. All that she had done with it was fix the zipper on the bag keeper. I gave it to another sister in 2000. It was a work horse.

[@shaznw1]

I loved watching this video 😊 you did a great job on your own, can't wait for the next one 😊😊😊

[@HeatherMyfanwyTylerGreey]

An old laundry with copper and tap and under heater/fire. A great sink too, wow!

[@donnamartindale4121]

Beautiful tiles! I’m new to your channel, love it!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hello Donna, I’m not quite sure why this little video is flying to new audiences, but lovely to be welcoming so many new viewers to the community here. ❤️❤️

[@siggiroberts7432]

What a little gem you found there. Great job cleaning it out. When you found the hoover I was laughing out loud because it reminded me straight away of the film Hocus Pocus, when one of the sisters came out of the house with one like it. 😂😂😂 Btw, I counted 4 different crimbo hats. ❤

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I need to get it back out of the skip and fly away on it …. Challenge accepted!

[@mariarichmond4179]

You should sell those tiles for other people renovating 😊😊😊. It is a wash house,Monday morning chore😊😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

The bathroom tiles? Would people still want them? I guess trends come around again. The floor ones I’ve saved. They’re lovely when polished up. I’ll correct the name in a later video. My late father in law always called it the summer house, so when I saw the term summer kitchen (google search of wash coppers), I assumed that was the name. Wash house makes sense though, given there’s no cooling facility in there. ❤️

[@mariarichmond4179]

@ you would be surprised at what people will buy when renovating. 😙

[@lmmartin959]

Completely enjoyable!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you Martin. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching, and more importantly thanks for stopping by with a comment. Means a lot 😊

[@chrissiehart22]

Well done Claire that looked overwhelming! So exciting! As you was taking the soil over I thought that it would look nice with flowers and then you brought the bulbs out lol great minds think alike 💚💚 Also great job Duncan 6 hats

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It really did feel overwhelming when I opened the door but it was empty in a few hours. I really should have worn a mask though, but that’s not conducive to talking on camera 🙈😂 I really needed to get some bulbs in that area didn’t I? I picture hollyhocks and gladioli there too. Maybe even foxgloves, but I worry about the proximity to the dog garden (other side of the fence). Maybe I should plant a clematis against the fence now too. Not sure Duncan would left me put climbers up the building now, not after clearing all of that off the roof, or I’d suggest that to him 😂🙈 Were 6 hats too many? I’m thinking I need to fin them all out for next week’s video 😂

[@chrissiehart22]

@TheFarmyardGarden yes totally agree with you you need large variety and the clematis along the fence. Maybe one planted near to the corner of the fence near to building so it can accidentally climb up the building and not be trained at all 😂😂🫣 I had a shed where the roof was rotten and wasn't using it just needed clearing and dismantled. But what an effort to even start but 99%was binned and only took half an hour. Dismantling which I assumed would be easier as it was falling to bits actually took 2 days as but together well. It's funny how our brains work isn't it. Definitely more hats and Duncan needs them too if he's going to make an appearance lol xx

[@bethanskitchengarden]

This is a great little project to watch Clare. Did the farm always belong in Duncan's family? He wasn't wearing shorts 😱 Yes I need to go and get some cheap bulbs while they are still available. Great update, look forward to seeing the next instalment. Take care

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

That’s a yes and a no question, Bethan. Duncan’s grandfather moved here in 1920 I believe. Duncan’s dad and his siblings were born here. However, in 1999 Duncan and his parents bought out all of my father in law’s siblings to own the farm outright themselves.. so not a silver spoon hand me down 😂🙈 I’m not sure I can quite get over seeing Duncan in long trousers 😂

[@doras.allotment]

Clare you have grafted there, such a transformation already - I bet the roof is a lot happier! You're going to have so many wonderful bulbs 🌼🌷 Aw that mini fire! 🔥 Ps congratulations on 4,000 subscribers!!! 🎉👏x

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Aww thank you Dora. 4000 subscrivers seems so surreal I’ve not mentioned it yet! 😱🤗🤗 It was a big job to clear it. Was devastated to realise it was all just junk. Was hoping to find something cool, although I guess it doesn’t come much cooler than the fireplace and wash copper ❤️☺️

[@mikeydawks5884]

Such an interesting and entertaining watch; including watching you fill & empty barrows. Looking forward to see the project develop 👍🏾

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thanks Mikey. I have so many ideas swarming around my head but I need to keep a lid on them a bit as I’m still mainly using it as a glorified shed. It’s a shame there isn’t a cooling stove in there too, as a lot of summer kitchens would also have had a mini type of aga. There were so many barrows to the skip, I lost count. Thanks for watching ☺️

[@thecroftallotment]

Looking forward to watching the project unfold over the next few months and hope the roof is ok and not damaged with the ivy though. How damaged is the wash tub?

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

It wasn’t normal ivy over the roof, it didn’t have the ability to cling in the way traditional ivy does. The roof seems un damaged. Just some pointing around the chimney and roof drain gulley to sort. Such an exciting project ❤️

[@andrewsteele7663]

Good evening, [Oz time] stumbled onto your video, and all power to you. Get the cast iron bowl/boiler warm and get a wire brush and give it a good scrub. You can use a cordless drill with a wire brush. But wear safety glasses & gloves. When its "clean" boil some water in the vessel and eventually it will come clean. You will need to rub it with some cooking oil to keep it looking good.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hello.. all the way from Australia. 👋🏼 Thank for that. This sounds perfectly doable! Any excuse to light a little fire again 🤣 😊

[@mikeburton9987]

You can use any cheap cola to dissolve rust. Pour it in the copper and leave it for weeks. You can use vinegar too but the cola is easier on the nose.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Yes, funnily enough I just said to someone else that my eyes and nose are stinging just thinking of the volume of vinegar it’d need 😂😬😬😬 Good idea!

[@cabbitkisser2620]

when you look on the outside of the shed. you can tell it might have windows at one time

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Yes, we noticed. Wondering if they were bricked up due to the window tax or if they simply were damaged and it was decided easily to brick them up, especially if they were only using the building for storage

[@Summerrose400]

I wonder when that fire was last lit? Fascinating and fun to watch, thanks for sharing your experience.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I wonder this too! It must be decades! Duncan can’t ever remember it lit and he was born in the 70’s Thanks for watching ☺️

[@pambrewer9082]

Oops, commented too early. Now I see your greenhouse. Like you, I look forward to seeing bulbs bloom.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

If you’re in the UK, I popped to a Blue Diamond Garden Centre yesterday and the purple sensation allium packets were reduced to £1 a pack (15 bulbs). Cannot wait for spring bulbs

[@juliequinlan6564]

I love a renovation project 💕

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I find it far more enjoyable when I can leave the mess behind to relax in a dust free house. I don’t cope well with the house in disarray. I think the building will be lovely feature for the vegetable garden. 😊

[@CarmenBode-l3i]

Very nice job on your clearance! Make sure do use lime mortar instead of cement mortar for the joints on your historical wall. This is Very important!

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Yes.. it needs to breathe. I’ve seen a few renovation troubleshooting videos where that was a problem. Bit worried about the newer stuff already on the wall

[@CarmenBode-l3i]

Yes and the problem is simply that concrete and pure limestone have different thermal expansions and work against each other when the temperature fluctuates, i.e. cracks develop into which water penetrates that could destroy the wall in winter.

[@grahamhvincent]

For the cast iron, you could use Evapo-Rust. It aint cheap so you'll have to find a way of taking up some of the volume ( eg. weighted bucket). There is a diy version 1litre water 100g Citric acid 40g Washing soda Non toxic and reusuble for a few times.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Very, very useful info, thank you Graham. I’m going to work on it, probably after Christmas now. Really need to start some Christmas shopping 😂🙈

[@allison5363]

what a wonderful video, i love the old building story what memories those walls hold be great to see the progress over the next few months . x

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you Allison, I’m glad you enjoyed it. I am desperately sad that we didn’t embark on this journey whilst my father in law was still alive. There’s no one to ask about historical stories of this building really. His youngest sister is still alive, but she’s significantly younger and only had sketchy memories of it. Her job, as a child, was to boil up potatoes in the wash copper for pigs

[@allison5363]

@TheFarmyardGarden oh my that’s amazing i love the old buildings they had such clever designs to achieve things the pot in the stove is amazing

[@Jacqui-Pen]

That's amazing 👏 6 hats, I was close 😊

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Very, very close ❤️

[@davidstorton910]

It's a scullery (I know that's not the right spelling),that thing in the corner is a copper for boiling washing and that's why there's such a large sink next to it

[@norrieblackeby1041]

Wow lovely project you have there. I'm hooked and just subscribed 😊.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hello and thank you. 👋🏼 My channel is mainly about my vegetable garden, but this building and the farm, do make appearances. ☺️

[@norrieblackeby1041]

@TheFarmyardGarden I love growing flowers in my little Devon garden. I am so rubbish with vegetables though so would enjoy your videos.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

@ This is my first full season, as it’s a new plot to me. Sunday’s video is going to be all about the Christmas vegetable harvest. Glad to have you along. You live in the most beautiful area of the country too and I’m sure your garden is lovely. If you have a Blue Diamond Garden Centre close by, they are selling off bulbs ridiculously cheaply. 15 purple allium sensations £1 a pack! ❤️

[@Littlesheddiaries]

Job well done there Clare. It’s a gorgeous little building with so much potential. If it was mine I’d use it as flower drying room and keep the little fire going. How lucky you are 😊 How many spiders did you find in there 😮

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Ooo a flower drying room. That sounds so lovely. Maybe I could do a bit of that too. Lovely suggestion. I’m not sure I want to keep the fire lit permanently. It’d be a full time job 😂

[@RobinGardens]

That is going to be sooooo charming when it's functional again. It has fantastic bones. ❤ If that sink is like a cast iron pan (can't completely tell from the pic) could it be removed, and taken to a machine shop to be sand blasted clean of the rust? Will love watching this rehab with great interest. 🥰

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hi Robin. I think the wash cooper is pretty much built in to the brickwork to seal it, as part of the design. I’m not sure it can actually be removed without risking the structure of the fireplace. Would have to get someone out to look at it but it’d be brilliant if it could be sand blasted in situ It’s such a quaint space. I’ve been told today it reminds someone of a castle gatehouse. That’s a pretty cool vibe. The ultimate, original she shed ❤️🤗🤗

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

We're going on a Bear hunt we're gonna catch a big one, Squelch squelch squelch squelch

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Dexter would not save me from bears on our dog walks 😂

[@maurawhelan3530]

One of the most charming structures I have ever seen! Love it…the fire heated the water…sweet. Dimensions pls to give us an idea?

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Hi Maura, I do measure if in the video.. it’s 2.5m x 2.5m, so fairly a small (but very cute) square ❤️

[@lotty468]

I love that copper boiler. It likely never had a grate. I believe the way they worked was that faggots were made. These were very fine and dry twigs bundled up to fit under the copper. Because of the massive surface area of the wood in this way, the heat was instant fierce, and they were pushed into the opening and afterwards then just raked out. No need for a grate as only coal needs a grate, not wood. I'd love to see this done, and to know how well all worked in those days. I think we would be very surprised

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Oh that’s really interesting! Thank you for sharing that. We think it had something at the top, as there’s some ironwork that looked like it held something. No-one sadly to ask anymore about how it was used. 😭😭

[@nopeynopeynope]

What a phenomenal job you have done. I saw one of these (fully renovated) on tiktok the other day and it was noted as being of historical interest. Not sure if you have a local history society that might be interested in visiting you regarding it? Well done on your hard work.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I did wonder about mentioning it to our local history society actually, but wasn’t sure if that would be silly. Thank you, you have given me the push to think that might be a good idea. I don’t have TikTok, maybe I should search on insta in case it’s there too ❤️❤️

[@vickielibby7006]

I put in rows and use for a cutting patch for fresh flowers in the house.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

The garden is going to have an extension next year, I think a cut flower patch is on plan. I’d like that a lot ❤️

[@aedwards4428]

I'd use that space has a potting shed,put a supply of compost in washing basin,with a rack over top to save any mess. 😊

[@paulineellison9047]

job well done

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

Thank you Pauline ❤️

[@rosykatzCATS]

I was always told you must put bulbs in a proper way with the sprout facing up

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

I did plant them all facing up, I was also taught the same thing 😇

[@Caffeine_Operator.]

I've always used WD-40 and some sandpaper to remove rust and it works quite well.

[@TheFarmyardGarden]

That’s not a bad shout! Wouldn’t have thought of that, thank you. Helps that I like the smell of WD-40 too 😂😍