The Towne family
came to Braceby from Heydour, a few miles to the north, at the beginning of the seventeenth century. They were
Lords of the Manor and major landowners. Their home, Manor Farm, opposite the church, still exists.
Richard Towne was the first Towne to be
Lord of the Manor. He and his wife Ann had 8 children, Richard died in 1628 and left his main wealth to his grandson,
Leonard, as Leonard's father was already dead.
When Leonard Towne (gentleman) died in 1677 an inventory
of all his possessions was made, in the house and on the farm, including all the farm animals. It totalled £344,
a very great deal of money in those days.