Waldridge

WALDRIDGE, a township, in the parish and union of Chester-le-Street, Middle division of Chester ward, county of Durham, 1½ mile (S. W.) from Chesterle-Street; containing 432 inhabitants. This place was long the estate of the Lumleys, of whom John, Lord Lumley, alienated it to the Smith family in 1607; it has since passed through various families. The township comprises 795 acres. A coal-pit has been opened; and on a common of between 200 and 300 acres, immediately above it, appears a vein of lead-ore. The tithes were commuted in 1841, for a rent-charge of £63, payable to the perpetual curate of the parish. There is a place of worship for dissenters, which is also used as a day school.