Nestled just off The Digey, one of St Ives’ oldest streets, lies Hick’s Court. This is a historic passageway marked by a low granite arch.
This archway once led to the residence of George Hicks, a prominent figure in early 17th-century St Ives.
George Hicks
George Hicks served as Portreeve (the town's chief official) in 1611 and 1624. He was also a business man and churchwarden. His residence, situated in what is now known as Hick’s Court, was described in the 19th century as an imposing structure and was of Tudor origin.
According to Matthews' History of St Ives (1892), the house featured mullioned bay windows adorned with the initials "GH," indicating George Hicks' ownership. The dining room was noted for its vaulted ceiling, and beneath the house was a secret smuggling cave or cellar.
The Granite Archway
The granite archway that marks the entrance to Hick’s Court is a Grade II listed structure. A plaque (placed there as part of The Festival Of Britain celebrations in 1951) beside the arch reads:
"This arch marks the entry to Hick’s Court where stood the house of George Hicks, Portreeve, 1611 and 1624."
Local legend suggests that Hicks had the arch built low to impede customs officers on horseback, thus deterring smugglers from entering the court.
Today, the arch stands as a silent testament to the town's rich history and an impedement only to the tall holiday makers who comes to stay there.
