The Bond Family of Tyneham

The Arrival of The Bond Family

The intertwining history of the Bond family and Tyneham Village stretches across centuries, a tapestry woven with tales of ownership, resilience, and the ebb and flow of generations.

Their presence, marked by pivotal moments and individuals, left an indelible mark on both the landscape and the community that revolved around Tyneham House.

A Notorious Episode

The year 1683 saw the Bond family enter Tyneham village, as Nathaniel Bond’s acquisition of Tyneham and Creech Grange solidified their connection to the village. This marked the beginning of an era where the Bond family’s story was intertwined with that of Tyneham House.

In the annals of the Bonds’ history, the infamous episode involving Lady Alice Lisle stands out as a testament to the family’s involvement in significant events.

In a harrowing twist of fate, Lady Alice Lisle, granddaughter of Edith Bond, was sentenced to death for sheltering a fugitive from the Battle of Sedgemoor.

The sentence, originally death by burning, was commuted to death by beheading after public outcry. This historic event adds a layer of complexity to the Bond family’s narrative.

The Bond Family Custodians of Tyneham

Over the following century, the torch of ownership was passed through the Bond family from Nathaniel Bond to John Bond, then to Dennis Bond, and eventually to Reverend William Bond.

This lineage of custodians oversaw not only Tyneham House but also the construction of the south transept of Tyneham Church—a dedicated space for the Bond family’s use.

Commitment to Education

Nathaniel Bond’s legacy continued with the building of Tyneham School in the 1850s. The family’s commitment to education mirrored their deep ties to the village.

Shifting Tides of the 20th Century

The 20th century brought about its own trials, including the passing of the torch to Algernon Bond in 1911 and the eventual inheritance by Ralph Bond in 1935.

Ralph Bond’s stewardship marked the final chapter of Bond’s ownership before the village’s evacuation.

The heart-wrenching loss of Tyneham and the broken promise of its return left Ralph Bond a shattered man, his life defined by the echoes of a home lost.

Lilian Bond – Perhaps The Most Famous Member of The Bond Family

This is the tale of a remarkable woman whose name echoes through the corridors of time—Lilian Bond. Hers is a story of resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit that defied the challenges of her era.

Born into a world where societal norms often dictated the path a woman should tread, Lilian Bond was Ralph’s sister. Growing up amidst the bucolic beauty of Tyneham and Worbarrow Bay, her surroundings undoubtedly played a role in nurturing her independent nature. While the village was steeped in tradition, Lilian emerged as a beacon of modernity, a testament to the shifting winds of change.

Lilian’s story is one of breaking barriers, both literal and metaphorical. As World War II cast its shadow over Tyneham, the village and its residents faced upheaval. Amidst the uncertainty, Lilian’s fortitude shone. She found herself embracing roles traditionally reserved for men, tending to the land and livestock, stepping into the breach left by those called to serve.

Beyond her individual accomplishments, Lilian’s legacy lies in her devotion to the community that was the fabric of Tyneham. She exemplified the village’s spirit of camaraderie and unity, a beacon of support for her neighbours during times of strife. Her door was always open, offering a comforting embrace and a listening ear—a testament to the bonds that tied Tyneham’s residents together.

Lilian’s life encapsulates the delicate balance between honouring tradition and embracing change. As a custodian of the village’s history, she safeguarded its stories and enriched its tapestry. Yet, she also stood as a harbinger of progress, an embodiment of the evolving roles and possibilities that awaited women in the years to come.

While time may have cast its veil over Tyneham’s landscape, the memory of Lilian Bond endures. Her story is a reminder that the indomitable spirit of those who came before us shapes our present and lights the path to our future. Her legacy is etched not only in the annals of Tyneham’s history but also in the hearts of those who continue to draw inspiration from her journey.

As we reflect on the life of Lilian Bond, we are reminded that history is not just a chronicle of events—it’s a mosaic of individuals who dared to defy expectations and leave an indelible mark. Lilian’s story resonates as a testament to the strength that resides within us all, a beacon of empowerment and a tribute to the enduring spirit of Tyneham.

Lilian Bond captured the essence of Tyneham and the Bonds’ legacy in her 1956 book, “Tyneham – A Lost Heritage”. Comprising fourteen chapters, the book delves into various aspects of Tyneham life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the world that once was.

Through her words, the reader gains insight into the very fabric of Tyneham and the familial saga that shaped it.

The Bond Family – An Enduring Legacy

The Bond family’s presence in Tyneham remains an enduring legacy, a testament to the intricate connections between families, homes, and history. Their story, a symphony of triumphs and tribulations, is woven into the very fabric of the village they called home.