Normanby Hall has been the Sheffield family's seat since the 16th century. Sir Berkeley Sheffield became the sixth Baronet Sheffield in 1886. Married to Baroness Julia Mary de Tuyll, he had enjoyed a successful career in the Army and Diplomatic Corps before entering politics. In 1936 he became Scunthorpe's Charter Mayor.
The family owned most of the Parish of Crosby, releasing building land early this century for much needed housing in the area between Crosby village and Scunthorpe High Street. His active involvement in the urban and industrial development of Scunthorpe made him a key figure in the town's growth.