Flint and pottery uncovered during archaeological excavations demonstrate late Neolithic to early Bronze-Age and Romano-British settlement sites near Maidenbrook and Nerrols. The name of the village was "Cedenon" probably meaning "wood valley" in 897. After the Norman Conquest it was granted to Roger Arundel and was then passed down through his family. The parish of Cheddon Fitzpaine was part of the Taunton DeaneHundred.[2] In the 16th century the manor was bought by Thomas More of Taunton Priory.[3]
Governance
The parish council has responsibility for local issues, including setting an annual precept (local rate) to cover the council's operating costs and producing annual accounts for public scrutiny. The parish council evaluates local planning applications and works with the local police, district council officers, and neighbourhood watch groups on matters of crime, security, and traffic. The parish council's role also includes initiating projects for the maintenance and repair of parish facilities, as well as consulting with the district council on the maintenance, repair, and improvement of highways, drainage, footpaths, public transport, and street cleaning. Conservation matters (including trees and listed buildings) and environmental issues are also the responsibility of the council.
The Anglican parish Church of St Mary has a 13th-century tower and 15th century nave.[11] The Old Rectory near the church was built around 1861, possibly by Edward Jeboult and later turned into 3 dwellings.[12]