Date of foundation uncertain, but Gastrell in 1720s notes that, 'Here is a School, said to be built 100 yeares ago, at the charge of the Parish, to wch. was left by Will Barker, 100li. and 10li. per an. in Land, to make the School free to the Town and Lorddp, the Children paying only 12d. Entrance, and Cock pence [a Shrove Tuesday payment]. 50li. by Rob. Warburton Esq. Mr Barker left 4 Trustees, who are all dead wthout choosing new ones, soe that 'tis not known who has the right to choose the Master', F. Gastrell, Notitia Cestrienses, I, Chetham Soc., vol. 8, 361-2. Foundation date as grammar school here taken as date of Barker bequest, White's Directory (1850), 644.