The derivation of the name Gow Hole is unknown. The earliest mention of this hamlet, so far traced is Jawhill in 1587. In probate documents from Lichfield Joint Records Office, various spellings are to be found: Joliehole in 1665; Jollyhole in 1674; Jowhole in 1694 and 1725 and Jow Hole in Beard in 1789. Burdett's Map of Derbyshire of 1763 shows Jow Hole as does the Tithe Map of 1841. The bridge over the Goyt at the bottom of Station Road is sometimes known as Joule Bridge or Jolly Bridge. The latter name has sometimes also been given to the canal bridge in Furness Vale alonside which was the Jolly Sailor beerhouse (or Traveller's Call).
Below are extracts from the Tithe Map. Look closely at the bridge over the River Goyt and you will see the Toll House and Tollbar which once stood here. Marsh Lane was managed by the Thornsett Turnpike Trust.
My ancestors lived at 29 jow hole in 1861, I would love to see where this is. Are there any houses still there?
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