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Famous Knaptonians…
John Sell Cotman
painter, etcher, illustrator, author who designed the cockerel weathervane on our church16 May 1782 – 24 July 1842
Marine and landscape painter, etcher, illustrator, author and leading member of the Norwich School of painters.
Read more about John here
Bernard Hale
Master of Peterhouse, University of Cambridge, retired to Knapton to be parent of the poor1607 - 1663
After a life of piety and education, Bernard retired to Knapton in around 1663
Learn more about Bernard’s link with Knapton here
Gillian Shephard
born in Knapton, enjoyed a career as a successful politician and Member of Parliament1940 – ????
Baroness Shephard of Northwold is a Conservative politician who was the MP for SW Norfolk and served as a Cabinet Minister.
Read more about Gillian here
John Henry Wild
born and lived his whole life in Knapton, served on the Parish Council for over 57 years1912 – 2005
Henry served in the Royal Artillery and was one of the driving forces behind the Knapton Working Mens club
Read more about John here
Constance Robinson
born and lived her whole life in Knapton, a wonderfully generous benefactor to the village1879 to 1968
President of the WI, magistrate, church organist and highly respected for her kindness
Read more about Miss Robinson here
Charles Atkinson
born in Knapton, possibly in Church farm, an attorney and farmer1813 to 1895
A major land-owner, Charles went on to be an attorney before going back to farming
Read more about Charles Atkinson here