Water Stratford in 1836

Water Stratford, near Buckingham, was the scene of a singular delusion in the latter par: of the 17th century. Mr. John Mason, the rector, a man of sincere and fervent piety and irreproachable character, fell, towards the close of his life, into a delusive notion that lie was appointed to proclaim the second advent of the Saviour. Many believed on him, left their homes, and resorted to Water Stratford, in consequence of his declaration that ‘the Lord Jesus would appear at Water Stratford, and come and judge the world on the Whit-Sunday following.’ In the midst of the excitement thus caused, Mr. Mason died, having before his death foretold that he should rise from the dead after three days, and ascend with his body to heaven. Before the three days were expired the body was buried ; but strange to say, several of his followers declared that he had risen, and that they had seen him and spoken with him ; nor was the delusion dissipated when, after some time, the grave was opened and the body exposed to public view. These strange events occurred about 1693 or 94, and the sect did not become wholly extinct until 1740. Population in 1831, 186.