Ralph Bourne and his stepson William Baker III  (1800-65) built houses in the late eighteenth century on the higher ground on the south side of the High Street.
William Baker’s residence, Fenton House, was near the corner of what is now Glebedale Road and City Road, now Fenton Health Centre occupies the Land.

Simeon Shaw described the two houses in his History of the Staffordshire Potteries in 1829:  “On the south side of the turnpike road], are the two mansions of Ralph Bourne, and William Baker Esqs.  The former is neat; but being only a kind of business residence is without exterior decorations, the proprietor’s home being Hilderstone Hall, a few miles south-east of Fenton.  Mr Baker’s residence is spacious and commodious, surrounded with gardens and pleasure grounds, and enjoying a tolerably extensive prospect.  The public spirit and private virtues of these gentlemen, have been long known in the district; and are duly appreciated by all persons of discernment and worth. Ready for every good word and work, their benevolence has been exercised to discover objects of commission; and their liberality has been dispensed with most laudable extension and promptitude.  Almost adjoining are the two extensive Manufactories, and Mill, of Messrs Bourne, Baker and Bourne, whose productions are in estimation in both the home and foreign markets.”

The view of the potworks from Fenton House
"Almost adjoining are the two extensive Manufactories,
and Mill, of Messrs Bourne, Baker and Bourne"

photos: July 2000