Surrey Archaeological Collections/Volume 1/Report of Proceedings at the Inaugural and other General Meetings of the Society during the years 1854 and 1855
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
AT THE
INAUGURAL AND OTHER GENERAL MEETINGS OF THE SOCIETY,
DURING THE YEARS 1854 AND 1855.
SOUTHWARK.
The Inauguration of the Society took place in Southwark, on Wednesday, the 12th of May, 1854.[1] Two meetings were, on that day, held at the Bridge House Hotel, at both of which the Chair was taken by Henry Drummond, Esq., M.P., F.R.S., Vice-President. The first, a Morning Meeting, was limited to Members only, its object being the formal constitution of the Society and the Election of Office-bearers. The following Report was read:—
The present being the first General Meeting of this Society, the Council take this opportunity of briefly stating the progress that has been made since its formation, and request the sanction of the Members at large to such steps as have been taken to insure its permanent welfare.
Although less than a year has elapsed since the formation of this Society, it already numbers 365 Members; and the increasing attention paid to Archæological research justifies the belief, that when its utility becomes thoroughly known, a considerable addition may be confidently expected.
With regard to the state of our finances, as the balance-sheet will not be presented until the first Annual General Meeting, the Council beg to state that—
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£190 | 0 | 0 | ||||
| And the following Donations:— | |||||||
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£15 | 0 | 0 | ||||
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15 | 0 | 0 | ||||
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5 | 0 | 0 | ||||
| 35 | 10 | 0 | |||||
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£225 | 10 | 0 | ||||
and the income of the Society derivable from the Annual Subscriptions of 327 Members, with the addition of interest on invested capital.
The Council have to acknowledge the liberal donations of books, drawings, and prints, a list of which will be prepared and printed in the first annual volume of the Society's Transactions.
The Rules for the regulation of the Society, which have been prepared with great care, are now submitted for sanction and confirmation.
The Council beg to resign into the hands of the Society the trust reposed in them, and to express their willingness to resume their duties if re-elected.
The Adoption of the Report was moved by
J. C. W. Lever, Esq., M.D., seconded by Thomas Clark, Esq., and unanimously carried.
The Proposed Rules were then read, revised, and adopted.
The Office-bearers having been duly appointed, the Meeting adjourned to the evening.
At Seven o'clock the Members and their friends, in number nearly two hundred, again assembled; and the proceedings were commenced by the Chairman's delivery of the following Inaugural Address:—
Ladies and Gentlemen,—I take it for granted that all who are now present are members of this Archæological Society, or at least are interested in archæological pursuits. This being our first meeting, it may affect our future proceedings—a great deal depends upon how we make a start. (Hear, hear.) I dare say you all remember a character in one of Foote's farces, ridiculing this kind of thing, representing the parties as trying to get a complete collection of Tyburn-turnpike tickets. (A laugh.) There might be something to learn from that. If at the out-set you start with no higher object in view than picking up old coins, pieces of old iron, fragments of broken vases, and scraps of tiles, your researches will be exposed to great and deserved ridicule. If, on the other hand, your exertions be directed towards worthier and more extended objects—of which those relics may be made one of the instruments—you may be of considerable use—you may fill an important office, as I will endeavour to show. All great works of art—a great building, a great picture, or a great poem,—are made up of the grand design and the subsidiary details. Take any piece of art—say that you are painting a picture. Well, there is the great subject, the conception to be carried out, and there are the details. If you bestow your attention, as an artist, entirely upon the details, you must make a bad picture; if, on the other hand, you keep the details subsidiary to the grand plan or subject, you will make a good picture. If you, as members of this Society, are devoted to collecting pieces of broken pottery, or metal, or old coins, you will come to no good result—and you ought not to come to any good result. (Hear.) Now the first thing is one which is rather difficult to define, and that is "Antiquity." What do you mean by the state of being old? What is old? Ladies are never old, you know. (A laugh.) This reminds me that Horace relates a story. About 2,000 years ago this same inquiry arose,—"What is Old?" A person was praising the poets of antiquity: he didn't like the modern poets at all—there wasn't one worth reading. Give him the old poets—there was something in them. " Well," replied Horace, "what do you call old? Will a man who has been dead 100 years do for you?" "Oh! yes, a hundred years will do very well." "What," again inquired Horace, "if he had only died ninety-nine years ago ?" "Well, I won't stick about a year," was the reply. "Then," said Horace, "if you concede that, I shall take it away year by year till you have no antiquity at all." (A laugh.) It is just so with us; we can't fix a standard of antiquity. No line can be drawn but what year after year might be conceded over it—and, in fact, everything is old that is of yesterday. You will increase the objects of this Society beyond all control, as well as beyond all practical utility, if you take in everything merely because it is old. Supposing what I hope will never happen—that the splendid fleet in the Baltic was lost in a storm—not an impossible event—and the Russians were to get out with their ships, come over, and burn London. The archæologists, a couple of years hence, would pay the site of the town a visit, and commence digging among the ruins; but it would not be the mere finding of the relics alone that would enable them to trace out the habits and customs of the people who lived there. Merely digging among the remains of a Roman fortress and finding relics will not alone tell us of their mode of life. All these things are of value and useful to the well-instructed according to the associations with which they are connected, and the bearing which they have upon facts already known. The true purpose of such a Society as this is, to trace out, by means of a close comparison of relics with records, the habits of life, the manners, and the customs of people of a past age, illustrating and illuminating their mode of government, their form of religion, the state of their laws, and their artistic skill. In this respect such societies have an advantage which none others can present. (Cheers.) There is one thing that I must affirm, that in archæology, as in many other things, the pursuit is much more gratifying than the possession. I have been a collector of minerals, old coins, and all sorts of things, all my life, and I can assure you that the pleasure of collecting them was greater than possessing them. There is a striking illustration of this in what is called the old English sport of fox-hunting. Our sporting gentlemen go to a most enormous expense, run the hazard of breaking their necks every day, and when they have caught the object of their pursuit, it is a nasty stinking beast not worth having—(laughter),—thus showing the difference between the pleasure of pursuit and acquisition. I am sorry to say that there is no country in Europe that has taken such bad care of its historical possessions as Great Britain—as I will show very shortly. In Ireland there is no such thing, for a great number of years, as a parish register. Not a single register in proof of marriage, birth, or death is there to be found; and in Scotland it is pretty much the same. One great reason, I believe, which is urged by the Scotch for this want is, that their public documents were taken away by the English Edward, and the ship with these valuable records was lost coming to London. I don't believe there is one word of truth in that,—Edward III. did not care one straw for the very best and most valuable records that could be found throughout the length and breadth of the land. (A laugh.) So the Irish said, "It was the Danes that came over and took away our historical records, and afterwards the Cromwellians did the same." I don't believe a word of this. The Cromwellians have not been in existence for these 200 years, and the genealogical researches I refer to belong to a much more recent period. The fact is, you can't find any public document of the parentage of any one born in Ireland a hundred years ago. It would be something if we had the public records of Scotland since the time of Edward III., and of Ireland since Cromwell—for they would be very useful in portraying the habits and customs of the people; but we cannot get them. Archæological research was very much prevented in Scotland by the attorneys, who told the people not to let any documents be seen that were in their charter- chests, or they would lose their property; the consequence was, that the very valuable documents in the charter-chests were not available, and we could get no knowledge of the manners and customs of the people through such direct agency. It is nothing but the want of such records which renders our history so incomplete. All our histories are nothing but compilations. You may take Hume, he is nothing but a compiler, and very inaccurate. I remember Mr. Bruce, one of the very first and ablest persons in the Record Office, stating that he had shown Mr. Hume some very valuable documents in connection with the history of the country, and he, on looking at them said, "I admit they are very interesting; but if I begin to read them, I shall have to write my history over again, for I am all wrong." (A laugh.) Of all histories I have been able to look into, I must say that the most correct I have met with is that of Dr. Lingard; and the next to it is one—the "Pictorial History of England," I think they call it. In both of these they give references, and I have had occasion to search for and verify those references, and have found them correct. I am still speaking of them as compilations, which all our histories are. You, as an Archæological Society, should endeavour to remedy this state of things. The great object of antiquarian research should be, to supply the want we now feel in regard to our history. We hear a great deal of the instruction of the million, about which everybody is mad nowadays. (A laugh.) Well, they can't take any but popular works, and are obliged to rely upon them, and therefore their knowledge is very superficial. They are obliged to take upon trust what Mr. Macaulay, Mr. M'Culloch, or Mr. Anybody-else says; they have not time to ascertain if their statements be correct. They can't inquire into the matter, and therefore they imbibe a sort of passive knowledge—they must trust to the exertions of other people. (Hear.) The first persons who induced you to think on this subject, and to go to the foundation for your historical facts, were Dr. Chalmers and Mr. Riddell, a lawyer in Scotland. And in this country Sir Francis Palgrave has followed this movement up. He is a very agreeable writer, and has gone more extensively into this particular field of research than any other. And the Scotch are well following it up. There are the Bannatyne, Spalding, and Maitland Clubs, which have published some very handsome books, and I have here a sample of their works, if you would like to inspect them. They have a few subscribers, and they select some points of historic value, publish a work upon it, and give a copy for the subscriptions. In Ireland, too, which is very rich in its antiquities and historical associations, a movement has been made. Mr. Petrie has published a work on the Round Towers of Ireland,—a subject about which some difficulty and mystery arose, but which he has settled in a very satisfactory manner. They have also taken to publish an account of some of their own antiquities. I have here a work called the "Annals of the Four Masters,"—one volume,—though there are seven or eight, I believe. It is printed in double columns; the original Gaelic is given on one side, and the English on the other. It is a journal kept by the heads of the monasteries, telling you just what passed day by day. It is not a thing to be read as a history—it is not very amusing—you may try a page or two, if you please; but I don't think a perusal will repay any one who has not an especial object in the research. It tells you from the very earliest period the exact same history. It is nothing more, from beginning to end, than some savage, called a king, murdering some other savage, called by some other great name, by treachery and fraud. There are a great many other works of importance upon these subjects. The last Duke of Buckingham had a very valuable library; a portion has gone into the British Museum, but there still remain a vast number of very valuable documents. It is very remarkable that during the French Revolution the French destroyed no public documents. They robbed all the monasteries, they robbed all the cathedrals, and robbed everybody else; but they destroyed none of these papers. They transferred them to the Prefecture,—an office resembling, perhaps, that of the sheriff's officer in this country; and one of the consequences of that was a fact which I will mention. A friend of mine, the Count de Crouy, when he went and settled in Hungary, asked to be made indigenate, that is, to be considered by the laws as a native. In support of his application, he produced every single document necessary to prove that he was a lineal descendant from Andrew II., King of Hungary at the time when the country round Grenoble belonged to Hungary. The reply was, "We can't grant you indigenate, for you have proved yourself indigenate." I don't believe that that could have been done in any other country than France. (Hear.) There is also an admirable society in Normandy of this kind, who have published some works, such as the "Memorials of the Royal Society of Antiquaries in Normandy;" "The Anglo-Norman Chronicles;" and another, called, "Unedited Documents relating to the History of France;" and also the "Chronicles of the Dukes of Normandy." The documents are interesting, as relating to the origin of the first families who came over to this country with William I. Mr. Stapleton, the brother of Lord Beaumont, has conferred considerable benefit by publishing the Pipe Rolls—or Rolls of the Exchequer in Normandy—as to the terms on which they held their land; and this he did solely with reference to English history. The value of every history depends upon its accuracy, and these are the sort of records on which we can rely. The documents to which I have called your attention are those which you would do well to consider and follow in your pursuits as a Society. You know nothing of the internal family manners of the people from ordinary history. I will put this one question. If a man with 2,000l has four sons, he would put one in the Army, one in the Navy, another in the Law, and another in the Church; but what do you think he would have done with them in the reign of Henry III. or Edward II.? Now it was quite certain, unless there was a chance of becoming a bishop, or a fat prior, nobody in those days would go into the church. (A laugh.) As to the law, there was no such thing; for they could not read or write. (Laughter.) What was the young gentleman to do, then; for it was certain that he could not do without eating, and must have some clothes? (A laugh.) They generally gave him a small farm, where, if he was not ambitious, he would live the life of a peasant, feed his pigs in the adjoining woods, attire himself in a smock-frock, and so spend his days. But if he had a little ambition, he would pawn his farm to a Jew, in order to enable him to buy a suit of armour,—of all dress the most expensive,—and then bind himself to some great man as a sort of warlike apprentice, by what is called a bond of man-rent. I have here one or two of these bonds, which I will read:—
"Sir John Nevill, 1415, eldest son of Earl Nevill, was hound to the Earl of Lancashire; one of the bonds runs thus:—Ralph, son of Ralph, Lord of Raby, was retained by Lord Percy, by indenture, to serve him in peace and war for the term of his life. The terms of this indenture were to serve him in peace and war for the term of his life. The terms of this indenture were to serve him with twenty men-at-arms against all men except the king; whereof five are to be knights, receiving 10l. sterling from out of his lordships of Topcliffe and Pokelington, as also robes for himself, with these knights, and all the rest; and in time of war, to have diet for himself, his gentlemen, and six grooms, likewise hay, oats, shoes, and nails for fifty-nine horses, and wages for fifty-three inferior servants, with harness for his own body; and when required to come to a tournament, then to have four knights with himself, and their attendants, likewise diet in his hall for them, for five grooms, with hay, oats, shoes, and nails for thirty horses, with thirty-two servants, as also harness for his own body. If he should be required to attend him in time of Parliament or otherwise, to come himself with six gentlemen and nine horses, having diet for three men in his hall, with hay, oats, shoes, and nails for the number of horses last specified, and wages for six servants."
Now, you observe that two suits of harness are mentioned; and the reason is this: gentlemen of that day, like those of the present, generally got bigger round the waist as they got older; and as you can't let out your armour, you are obliged to have a new suit, and that was the chief reason for the great expense which attended those wars. [Mr. Drummond then read a similar document, which he translated from the French as he went on, and added:]—You will find in these old family histories a complete history of the times, as well as of the manner and customs of our ancestors. There is in the possession of the Bruce family a very interesting letter, written by the Earl of Elgin and Kincardine to his son, explaining the reasons inducing him to join the arms of Prince Charles of Scotland, in 1715. The letter apologizes to his son for the course he was about to take. The writer knew that if he failed, he should lose his title, and his estates would be forfeited; still he felt it was due to his lawful sovereign. The letter is highly creditable to the writer, and gives us an insight into the strength of his sense of duty. (Cheers.) You are exceedingly rich in this county of Surrey in objects of archæological research. I believe no county in England contains so many old palaces: there is Guildford, the oldest in the kingdom, I think—not excepting Winchester; and then you have Kingston (from the stone on which the kings used to be crowned), Richmond, and Kew. You have the abbeys of Bermondsey, of Lambeth, and of Newark. I believe you could not do a greater service to history than to obtain and publish the cartularies of Bermondsey Abbey. The publication of such documents in Scotland has thrown more light on history than anything else, and I know of no one possessing a greater knowledge of them than Mr. Stapleton. I have had occasion to write to him, asking a question, and he forwarded me, next day or so, two cartularies all copied out; and wherever he got them I have no idea. Then there is the examination of buildings, as at Esher, the palace of Cardinal Wolsey, Wimbledon, Sutton Place, and Losely—fine specimens of architecture. You are to consider what sort of a Society you will be, and having decided upon it, take care to carry out your object. Don't be deluded by pomp, and the desire to make a show, which entails great trouble and expense. (A laugh.) I can't see the utility of a grand array of names,—patron and vice-patron, president and vice-president. (A laugh.) The secretary's is the most important office, and you can do much better than merely meeting once a year and giving a flaming account of your proceedings. I have now pointed out what, in my opinion, is the way in which your industry can be properly directed, and it is now in your hands to do as you may please. (Loud cheers.)
The following Papers were read—:
1. On the Religious and Moral Bearings of Archæology upon Architecture and Art. By the Rev. John Jessopp, M. A.
2. Descriptive Notes attached to a Map of the Roman Road from Silchester to Staines, from a survey made by the Gentlemen Cadets of Sandhurst. Exhibited by permission of Colonel Prosser, Lieutenant-Governor. Memorandum on the Same, by Mr. E. J. Lance.
3. Description of the Stock of a Cross-bow found on Bosworth Field, and exhibited to the Meeting. By William Tayler, Esq.
[This interesting relic is of yew, elaborately carved, and in length 3 feet 5 inches. In the Gentleman's Magazine, vol. liv., is an account of this weapon, by Mr. Greene, of Lichfield, to whom it belonged. Mr. Tayler read this account to the meeting, and pointed out its inaccuracy in attributing the date of the bow to the time of Richard III., since the style of the carving clearly indicated it to be that of at least a century later.]
4. Mr. Hart, of Reigate, read the following description of Antiquities exhibited by him, and which were formerly in the collection of his relative, the late Mr. Glover, of Reigate:—
1. Two Fibulæ found at Waldingham. Engraved in Manning and Bray's "Surrey," vol. ii. page 420.
2. A Spur, found two feet below the surface, near Reigate Castle, in 1804. Engraved in Manning and Bray's "Surrey," vol. ii. page 420.
3. Iron Spear of the time of Henry VI., found near the vicarage, Reigate, in 1808, on making the turnpike road from Croydon.
4. Iron Spear found at Reigate. See Manning and Bray, vol. ii. p. 809; and Grose's "Military Antiquities," vol. ii. p. 258.
5. Brass Spur of the time of Henry VI., curiously engraved and pounced. Found near Reigate.
6. Perforated Stone, supposed to have been used as a missile, by means of a thong passed through it; or like the American sling-shot. Found, it is believed, in Surrey.
7. Broken Bead, of amber-coloured glass, spotted with opaque white, probably of the early British period. Found in Surrey.
8. Massive Bronze Armlet, and two broken-looped Objects of bronze, similar to a pair in the collection of the late Dr. Mantell, found on Hollingbury Hill, near Lewes.
9. Grant, by John Earl of Warren, of land at Brockham. 28 Hen. III. 1244.
10. Grant, by Isabella Countess of Warren. 1150. Engraved in Walker's "Earls of Surrey."
11. Grant, by John Earl of Warren to his cook, of land at Flanchford, in Reigate.
12. Grant, by John Duke of Norfolk, of Flanchford, in Reigate. He died 15 Edw. IV. 1470.
13. Grant, by the Abbot of Hyde, of land in Sanderstead. 6 Hen. III. 1222.
14. Seal of Cardinal Pole to a commission issued by him to Lawrence Hussey, Doctor of Civil Law, who lived at Gatewick, in Surrey 1557.
15. Correspondence with Fleetwood, Cromwell's General, as to the disposition of troops in Surrey; and a Warrant for payment of money, under the hand of Cromwell.
"I believe I told you that Queen Elizabeth's Hat is made of ivory; the thin slips are cut and platted with marvellous ingenuity. Some who have seen it, imagined, as I did, that it was of some vegetable material, perhaps some Indian rush or cane brought by one of the numerous explorers of the period. But Mr. Quekett, of the College of Surgeons, who solves all these questions with the microscope, ascertained that it is certainly ivory. I see no cause to question the tradition which would assign this curious Hat to the times of Elizabeth."
The proceedings having terminated with a vote of thanks to the Chairman, the company spent some time in examining the Collection of Antiquities and Works of Art contributed for exhibition. Amongst these may be enumerated the following:—
A large number of Rubbings from the Monumental Brasses in the churches of Surrey. Exhibited by the Misses Belt, Henry Chester, Esq., C. Calvert Corner, Esq., and Edward Richardson, Esq.
Drawings of Four Mural Paintings, of a large size, discovered in Lingfield Church. Exhibited by Edward I'Anson, Esq., Architect.
Sketches of similar Paintings, discovered in Beddington Church, were exhibited by the Rev. James Hamilton; and one representing St. Thomas A'Beckett, found in Stoke D'Abernon Church, presented by the Rev. F. P. Phillips.
Facsimile Drawing of a large Panoramic View of London, Westminster, and Southwark, by Van den Wyngrerde, 1543. The original is in the Bodleian Library, Oxford.
Panoramic View of London in 1647, by Hollar. Exhibited by George Gwilt, Esq., F.S.A.
Water-colour Drawings of the Exterior and Interior of the Ancient Banqueting Hall of the Artillery Company in Southwark, erected in 1639; afterwards used as the workhouse of the parishes of St. Olave and St. John. Exhibited by Messrs. Snooke, Allen, and Stock.
Drawing by Mr. H. P. Ashby, of the Old Church at Tooting, no longer existing. Remarkable as being the only church in Surrey with a round tower. Presented to the Society by S. H. Elyard, Esq.
Drawings of Chessington Church, recently restored by Mr. Hesketh. Bronze Mortar found in Bermondsey. By Robert Hesketh, Esq.
Map of the Roman Road from Silchester to Staines, passing through Surrey. By Colonel Prosser, Lieut.-Governor of Sandhurst.
Antiquities found in Great Guildford-street, Southwark. By Arthur Newman, Esq.
Specimens of Roman and Early British Pottery, Coins, Beads, &c, and two Spear-heads, found at Farley Heath, near Guildford; and
Commissions signed by Cromwell and Fairfax. By Martin Farquhar Tupper, Esq.
Antiquities found at or near Mitcham, comprising Spear-heads, Knives, and part of a Shield; and
A Collection of Roman and English Silver Coins. By the Rev. James Hamilton.
Photographs of Guildford Castle and Loseley House. By Henry Taylor, Esq.
Various Ancient Deeds, with Seals attached, were exhibited by Mrs. Frederick Webb, E. M. Gibbs, Esq., and C. Tooke, Esq.
The following Contributions were exhibited by George R. Corner, Esq., F.S.A.:—
A Collection of "Greybeards" or "Bellarmines," of various sizes, found in Southwark.
Terra Cotta Lamps, found in Upper Thames-street and in Southwark.
A Bronze Figure from the Thames, at London Bridge.
A Roman Key of Bronze, and a Bowl of Samian Ware, found in excavating for the foundations of Alderman Humphrey's warehouse, Tooley-street, opposite Fenning's Wharf.
An Instrument for forging Papal Bullæ, time of Pius II., who died in 1460. Found in the Thames, near London Bridge.
A German Earthenware Mug, date 1597, with Dancing Figures, and bearing the following Inscription upon the rim:—"Nicht sonder Gott" (Nothing without God).
The Book of Esther and another Hebrew Manuscript, on Rolls.
The Address presented by the Borough of Southwark to King George III. on his Marriage, with the Signatures of the principal Inhabitants, given to Mr. Corner by James Anderton, Esq.
The Rev. F. P. Phillips exhibited a beautifully carved Spanish Rosary of Box-wood, each Bead containing a Text from the Scriptures. Also a Model of the Font in Winchester Cathedral, and a Collection of Engraved Illustrations of Early Costume in France.
KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES.
The First Annual General Meeting was held at Kingston-upon-Thames, on Friday, the 30th June, 1854. The use of the Town Hall was kindly granted to the Society by Frederick Gould, Esq., the Mayor, whose friendly and zealous co-operation in making the requisite arrangements for the Meeting contributed greatly to its success, and merits our grateful acknowledgments.
At one o'clock, about one hundred and fifty Members and Visitors having assembled, the Chair was taken by William John Evelyn, Esq., M.P., F.S.A., Vice-President, who addressed the Meeting as follows:—
As we have a very great deal to do, I will not delay any longer stating in a few words the purposes and objects for which we are met here to-day. This is the first annual meeting of the Surrey Archæological Society. It came into being on the 10th of May last, when it was publicly inaugurated. We are now assembled to hold the first General Meeting. By one of the Rules of the Society, we are to have one General Meeting yearly. You are aware that during the few past years several societies of this kind have been established in various parts of the kingdom; but although the county of Surrey is so rich in the remains of antiquity, it is only recently, as I have stated, that this Society was formed; and seeing what there is before us, it must be a matter of surprise that one of this character was not established before. (Hear, hear.) Although we have not long had an existence as an association, it is quite apparent that not only is it designed to do a great deal of good, but it is carrying out, in the most satisfactory manner, that design. (Cheers.) I need not dilate on the merits of antiquarian research, seeing that the character of this Meeting renders such a detail quite unnecessary. I apprehend that every one of us now present, with the other Members who belong to the Society, but do not happen to be present, feel a deep interest in the study of archæology, and are convinced with me that it is both a useful and laudable pursuit. (Hear, hear.) There have been imputations cast upon societies like this, and some degree of ridicule has been thrown upon the objects which they have in view. Now this arises from a mistake existing in the minds of many as to what are the objects of antiquarian research, and what are its true purposes. It is not for the mere collection of the remains of antiquity or archæological curiosities,—for this would only be an amusement, if attended with nothing else. The real merit of archæology is, that it elucidates the history of the country; and not only of this country, but of all those which may come within the scope of its investigations. (Cheers.) In England we are in rather a singular position as regards our historical writings. I need not relate in how many points our popular histories are defective; suffice it to say, that although we have many historical works in this country, the history of England, as such, has still to be written. (Hear, hear.) Most of the writings we now have, although given in language laying claim to some degree of eloquence and artistic style, are not only partial, but have been too little aided by those investigations and researches which the Surrey Archæological Society, with others, is formed to promote; and therefore the details they give of the times to which they refer are incomplete and imperfect. There is one fact I may mention—which is almost a disgrace to us Englishmen,—that the best history of the reign of Charles I., a period so full of interest to us all, has been written by a Frenchman, M. Guizot. (Hear, hear.) Every one who has read that work will allow that it is the most impartial history of the period that has yet been written; and it is not reflecting much credit upon Englishmen to say that one of our best historical works is written by a foreigner. (Hear, hear.) I cannot regard those researches as useless or unimportant which have for their object the investigation and preservation of the records of our forefathers, and improving our knowledge of them. The advantage of different persons being engaged in investigating the customs and habits of men living in past ages, and comparing the results of their labours, is to me so apparent that I feel I need not dilate upon it. I only wish that every county in England had its Archæological Society. They have had a very excellent one in the neighbouring county of Sussex for some years; and it is highly creditable to the parties who have promoted it, that one is now established in this county. I think the whole county of Surrey is highly indebted to those gentlemen who have commenced the present movement; and I sincerely hope they will achieve that for this county which has been achieved for other counties by societies similar to this. (Hear.) The county of Surrey is very peculiar in some respects. While a part of it is as wild and rural as any county in England, the other portion includes two very large and important boroughs of the metropolis. Therefore we have an extensive and varied field to work upon. We have on the one hand the connected boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark, and on the other hand a very extended tract of country on which to pursue our investigations. With regard to our buildings, we have not many churches distinguished either for splendour or architectural style; but they are not to be despised on that account; for if they possess no peculiar interest in themselves, they are, generally speaking, of great antiquity, many of them being supposed to have been built before the Conquest. (Hear.) I sometimes think that all architects might, with great advantage to themselves, become the students of archæology; for by observing the character and style of the buildings they are called upon to restore, they would be better qualified to make that restoration; however, a great improvement has taken place in this respect, and many of our architects now study the antiquity of the building they are called upon to repair or restore. Although we have not many ecclesiastical edifices of much splendour, I believe there is no county more rich in historical associations than Surrey. We have the two ancient towns of Guildford and Kingston, neither of which is unknown in history; but they are both of them pregnant with interesting associations of by-gone times (hear, hear), most of which are so well known to you that I need not stay to point them out. There is another very peculiar feature of interest in antiquarian research, and that is, the number of races with which we are brought into contact. There is the ancient British, a people who afford most interesting points to study, as having a strange mythology and very peculiar institutions. We must not completely look upon that race as barbarians, as their conquerors have taught us to do. The Romans, as great conquerors, always desired that the nations which they vanquished should become amalgamated with them, so as to become a Roman province. If there was a race who clashed with their will in this respect, and would not blend with them, they endeavoured to exterminate that race; a race more pliant and yielding they would mould according to their own way, give them their own institutions, and make them adopt Roman manners and Roman customs. But they could not subvert the habits and customs of the ancient British people, and so they called them barbarous; but the fact is, that there was some learning among them, the Druids possessing a considerable share of scientific knowledge. The Romans, when they departed, left many traces of wonderful works in this country—above all, the roads which they constructed are very remarkable, one of which runs through Surrey, connecting London with the neighborhood of Arundel, going straight along by Ockley, and forming a conspicuous object from the top of Leith Hill. It would be a most interesting object if this Society—and I beg to recommend it to their notice—could engage in the work of tracing out the exact line of this road, as well as the Roman station of Noviomagus, the exact site of which has not been clearly ascertained, although supposed by many authorities to be at Croydon. It may have been left for this Society to effect that which has not yet been effected—to trace out this Roman road and station, which would be an honour to it. (Cheers.) I may mention, too, that there was a great battle fought in Surrey,—that of Ockley,—where the father of Alfred the Great defeated the Danes, who had burned the city of London, and were then going through Surrey towards the southern coast. The county history is also connected with the first invasion of Cæsar. When that great man came over, he passed through Surrey and crossed the Thames. Antiquaries are not agreed as to the exact spot—whether at Kingston or Coway Stakes, near Chertsey. But although where he crossed it is not known, it is certain that he went on to St. Alban's (Verulamium), where there was an action with the Britons, whom he defeated, and whom he compelled to retreat. No doubt that was felt to be a great degradation; but it is perhaps a still greater degradation to be deprived of its political existence, as St. Alban's has been by the Parliament (a laugh); and, no doubt, if the old British king had been alive now, he would have been more hurt at the disgrace thus thrown upon his town than he was at being vanquished by the Romans. (Cheers and laughter.) There is another interesting discovery to which I will call your attention. After all the labour which has been expended on the subject of Roman remains, and searching out the localities where that people established themselves, there have been discovered at Farley Heath, not far from Guildford, a variety of Roman coins and other relics, where no one had ever dreamed there was a Roman station—there was no record of it in history, and this discovery was the first intimation of it. The coins were spread over a period of Roman history from almost their first arrival here until they left our shores, having been called away to defend their own country against the attacks of Gothic adventurers who were then pouring into Italy. (Cheers.) We have now a most interesting investigation before us, and that is, to examine a mound—or, as it is called, a barrow—which is in this neighbourhood, permission to explore it having been given by the proprietor. It will be rather a long business excavating it, and we must not be surprised if we find nothing—because we can't be sure that, in a place so near London as this, the barrow has not before been exploited. I trust, however, we shall be enabled to discover something; and from this [holding up a relic] which has just come from there, I have little doubt we shall have some success. The barrows, as you know, were places of sepulture; and if we, the archæologists, take upon ourselves to explore these places of the repose of the ancient dead, it is not from feelings of mere curiosity, but from a desire to increase the world's knowledge. It is told that one of the Queens of Babylon played a sort of practical joke on her descendants. She directed that when she was buried, there should be put over her grave, "Do not examine this place unless you are poor." Nobody ventured to examine the place until one of the sovereigns, being, as I suppose, "hard up"—as even kings sometimes are—(a laugh)—and thinking there were some hidden treasures, caused the sepulchre to be explored, but found nothing but a rebuke for his avarice. We shall not be accused of avarice in opening this place of burial, for it is not likely we shall find anything valuable excepting knowledge, which may prove useful as well as interesting; and perhaps some remains of a British chief. (Hear, hear.) I will not detain you longer than to say that I feel highly gratified at having been requested to take the chair at this very important Meeting, although there are others who could have more efficiently performed its duties. (No, no.) There will now be some interesting papers read, which will be more worth listening to than my remarks—(no, no)—but I may say that I feel anxious to promote the welfare of this Society, and most earnestly desire its prosperity and success. (Cheers.)
The Honorary Secretary read the Minutes of the Southwark Meeting, the Balance-sheet, and the following Report of the Council:—
The Council beg to state that having, at the Inaugural Meeting so recently held, reported on the affairs of the Society, they have now but little to add. The number of Members has been increased by an accession of nine, making a total of 374; of whom forty are life compounders. The Balance-sheet has been prepared, and is now presented.
At the Meeting referred to, the Office-bearers having been appointed, the Council recommend that they be now re-elected for the ensuing twelve months.
Several new Members were elected, and Mr. T. R. Bartrop was appointed Local Secretary for Chertsey.
The following Papers were then read:—
1. On the Kingston Morasteen, or Coronation Stone, with Illustrations from Stone Monuments in this country, and those of various Continental nations. By William Bell, Esq., Ph. Dr.
2. On the History and Antiquities of Kingston. By Samuel Ranyard, Esq.
3. On a curious Charter of William, second Earl of Warren and Surrey, whereby he granted lands in Southwark to the Monks of St. Andrew, Rochester, and which he conformed by placing his knife on the altar. By George R. Corner, Esq., F.S.A.
4. On the Ancient Baptismal Fonts of England. By W. Petit Griffith, Esq., F.S.A.
5. On the Mediæval Court of the Crystal Palace. By the Rev. Charles Boutell, M.A.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman was moved by Mr. Corner, and carried by acclamation.
The Collection of Antiquarian Relics was then examined by the company. It comprised numerous articles of interest, amongst which may be specified the following:—
The Series of Charters granted to Kingston by King John, Henry I., Henry III., Philip and Mary, Henry VIII., and Queen Elizabeth, conferring various privileges upon the town.
A very Ancient Chest, about three feet long, with an arched top, covered with massive iron and furnished with three curious Locks, and mounted on castors.
Carved Panelling from the old Town Hall.
The Great Seal of Edward IV. and other Relics. Exhibited by the Corporation of Kingston.
An Extensive Collection of Roman and Etruscan Pottery, Egyptian Mummies, and Household Gods, with various other Interesting Objects of Antiquity. Exhibited by Henry Christy, Esq.
Missile Hatchets, Celts, Spear-heads, and Swords, found in the vicinity of Kingston. Described and illustrated in Biden's "History of Kingston" and in Brayley's "Surrey," vol. iii.
Eight Ancient Keys, found in the blue clay under the foundation-stone of old London Bridge.
A Coin of Marcia Severa, wife of the Emperor Phillipus, found in the bed of the Thames, at a great depth.
Portion of a Rapier, supposed to have belonged to one of the party of Cavaliers routed at Surbiton by Colonel Pritty. Exhibited by William Roots, Esq., M.D., F.S.A.
A Massive Gold Ring, bearing in the centre of the table the capital letter V, between the letters E D and D I; above the letter V is the letter P, of smaller dimensions, having on the dexter side a Molette, or Star of six rays, and on the sinister a Crescent or Half-moon; a string of small Pearls surrounding the area or table. The Inscription is presumed to signify (Sigillum) Parvum Edwardi Domini Vasconiæ, or the Signet-ring of King Edward the First, as Duke of Gascony. It was discovered at Mont de Marsan, in the department of the Landes, France. Exhibited by Philip B. Ainslie, Esq., F.S.A.S.
Mr. Ainslie has printed an account of this interesting relic, accompanied by anengraving, and has dedicated it to the President and Members of this Society.
Another Ancient Signet-ring, of great local interest, was exhibited by Samuel Raynard, Esq. It is believed to have belonged to Richard Neville. Earl of Warwick, temp. Edward IV., who had a castle in Kingston. It was discovered in making excavations for the Assize Courts. The ring is of silver-gilt, and bears the Head of a Man, encircled by a fillet, and on the dexter side the letters W A R. It is more fully described, with an engraving, in Biden's "History of Kingston," p. 24.
A magnificently Illustrated Copy of the Memoirs and Correspondence of the celebrated John Evelyn, in four volumes quarto, was exhibited by W. J. Evelyn, Esq., M.P., F.S.A.
Two very Interesting Drawings, in water-colours, representing the Ancient Palaces formerly existing at Richmond and Oatlands. Exhibited by John Britton, Esq., Hon. Member.
The Account-books of the Churchwardens of Kingston, commencing in 1587, and containing many very curious Entries, were also exhibited.
Many interesting contributions were also made by M. F. Tupper, Esq.; Arthur Brown, Esq.; E. Phillips, Esq.; W. P. Griffith, Esq., F.S.A.; T. R. Bartrop, Esq.; Mr. Selfe; Edward Jesse, Esq.; W. B. Jones, Esq., and other kind friends of the Society.
After partaking of a collation provided at the Griffin Hotel, the company proceeded to view the excavations which had been in progress during the day in Sandy-lane, Teddington. A large barrow, or tumulus, situated on the land attached to Udney House, and which had long been an object of curiosity to antiquaries, was opened by the kind permission of Charles D. Mackenzie, Esq., the owner of the property, and under the able direction of J. Y. Akerman, Esq., various interesting relics were discovered. A detailed account of them is given at page 74. The operation was viewed by the members and visitors with considerable interest.
The Collection of Antiquities was thrown open to Public Exhibition on Monday, the 3rd, and Tuesday, the 4th, of July. During those days nearly 2,000 persons visited this temporary Museum; and such was the interest excited, that a third day was asked for; but the Town Hall could not longer be spared. The cordial welcome and assistance given to the Society by the Corporation of Kingston, and by the inhabitants generally, contributed much to the success of this Meeting, and merit our warmest thanks.
CHERTSEY.
A General Meeting was held on Friday, April 27th, 1855, at the Town Hall, Chertsey. The Chair was taken by Colonel C. Bisse Challoner, Vice-President. After the usual routine business, including the Election of several New Members, the following Papers were read:—
1. On Chertsey Abbey. By W. W. Pocock, Esq., F.R.I.B.A.
2. Upon an Anglo-Saxon Grant of Land, by Alfred the Great, to Chertsey Abbey. By George R. Corner, Esq., F.S.A.
3. Description of Ornamental Tiles discovered on the Site of Chertsey Abbey. By the Rev. Charles Boutell, MA.
The thanks of the Meeting having been cordially returned to the Chairman and to the Gentlemen who had read Papers, the proceedings terminated.
Before separating, the company inspected the numerous Objects of Archæological Interest contributed for exhibition. Amongst the more prominent of these were:—
A large Collection of Architectural Fragments and the Encaustic Tiles recently discovered on the site of the Abbey. These tiles are of the thirteenth century, admirably executed, and presenting many spirited figures, single and in groups, exhibiting the peculiarities of Costume, Armour, and Weapons of the period; and the ornamental borders and patterns are of very elegant and varied design. The Tiles were, with scarce an exception, in fragments; Mr. Shurlock, one of the Society's Local Secretaries, under whose directions the excavations were carried on, had with indefatigable care prepared a series of faithful and elaborate Drawings, showing the Pavement complete. Illustrations of these remarkable and beautiful Tiles are in course of publication by Henry Shaw, Esq., F.S.A. , who has dedicated the work to our Society.
A Series of Oak Carvings from Cardinal Wolsey's Palace, at Esher, representing the Armorial Bearings of the Bishops of Winchester. Exhibited by the Rev. Newton Spicer.
Model of a Greek Tomb. Colonel Challoner.
A Cabinet of Ancient Coins, Rings, Medals, and various Antiquities. Philip Barrington Ainslie, Esq.
The Gossip's, or Scold's Bridle, preserved in Walton Church, bearing the date 1633, and the following Inscription:—
"Chester presents Walton with a bridle
To curb women's tongues that talk too idle."
The Rev. Charles Lushington.
The Charter granted by Queen Elizabeth for holding a Market in Chertsey. Dated 8th February, 1598-9.
A small but interesting Collection of Ancient Arms and Armour was arranged in a compartment of the room; and on the walls were, besides numerous Rubbings of Brasses, Drawings, Photographs, and Prints, the following:—
View of Walton Bridge, by Moonlight. An early specimen, by the late J. M. W. Turner, R.A.
View of St. Catherine's Chapel, Guildford. By W. Russell, R.A.
Several fine Water-colour Drawings of the Scenery about Egham and Windsor. By J. H. Le Keux, Esq.
The company then proceeded to visit Cowley House, the residence of the Rev. J. C. Clark, who had most kindly given permission to inspect it. The ancient portion of this interesting building was the last dwelling-place of Abraham Cowley, the poet, who died here in 1667. The careful preservation of it is most honourable to the taste and good feeling of its present and late possessors.
The site of the Abbey was also visited, by the obliging permission of Mr. Grumbridge, the owner, who had kindly allowed excavations to be made, under the direction of the Society's officers. The walls of the ancient edifice were partially traced out; and several Stone Coffins were discovered, besides the remarkable collection of Tiles, some Painted Glass, and various fragments of architectural ornament.
At five o'clock a party of 120 sat down to a cold collation, served in a room adjoining the Town-hall. Colonel Challoner took the chair, and by the very efficient and agreeable manner in which he presided, this termination of the day's proceedings was rendered most sociable and pleasant.
The temporary Museum, formed in the Town-hall, was left until the Monday following, when it was gratuitously thrown open to the inspection of the inhabitants of Chertsey, and was viewed by very nearly 1,000 persons.
To the exertions made on this occasion by the Local Committee as well as the two indefatigable Local Secretaries, Messrs. Bartrop and Shurlock, the entire success of this agreeable Meeting was mainly due, and entitles those gentlemen to our best thanks.
GUILDFORD.
The Second Annual General Meeting was held at Guildford, on Thursday, the 28th June. 1855. The proceedings took place in the Public Hall, which had been engaged for the purpose. At twelve o'clock the Chair was taken by W. J. Evelyn, Esq., M.P., F.S.A., Vice-President.
The Chairman, after recapitulating the previous Meetings of the Society, said that "it would appear presumptuous were he to attempt to address any lengthened details concerning the topography and antiquities of Guildford to a Meeting chiefly composed of the inhabitants of the town. Nevertheless," he continued, "I should be entirely unworthy of inhabiting Surrey if I were not aware of the general facts relating to this most eminent and interesting borough. (Applause.) We know that it is one of the most ancient in this country, and I think it can be proved to have been incorporated for a thousand years. We know the Anglo-Saxon tragedy which rendered it memorable in early times, previous to the Conquest. I will not go into the details of that tragedy, which you, doubtless, have read. Guildford has ancient charters, it has been incorporated for more than a thousand years, perhaps for 600 years it has been the county town, and I think it most fitting that a Meeting of the Surrey Archæological Society should be held in the county town. (Applause.) I think it will be impossible for us to exhaust Guildford on this occasion, and am of opinion that we may hold future Meetings here with great profit to ourselves. (Applause.) Guildford is a town with an ancient castle memorable in history, with ancient churches, and local institutions that have lasted for centuries. Now it is objected to archæology that it tends to cramp the mind, and check rather than develop the understanding. I cannot but think that this imputation is wrong, but I think it is founded, like most of these assertions, on some truth. (Hear, hear.) I think, perhaps, we are too apt to confine ourselves to mere material objects, and forget that the sole advantage accruing to research is the development of the life and manners of our ancestors. (Applause.) It is to no purpose to go about excavating unless we endeavour to realize to ourselves the state of society of which those objects ought to lead us to form a clearer idea. I am one of those who advocate what may be called extreme views as to the rights and privileges of the English people, and value all our ancient institutions of local self-government; and holding these opinions, and believing in our adherence to those principles laid down in the Common Law of England, and which I think have been some times encroached upon, I think we shall be giving a practical value to our studies, and often enlighten ourselves as to the present times, and that many questions which have perplexed the politician and essayist may be solved by a consideration of the original meaning and purpose of an institution, and that more is often done by curbing the corruptions that have crept in, and restoring them to the original object, than by erecting a totally new system in their stead. (Applause.)
He concluded by calling upon the Honorary Secretary, who read the following Report of the Council:—
The Council, in presenting their Annual Report, have much pleasure in stating the progress that has been made by the Society since the formation in May, 1854. Three General Meetings have been held at the following places, namely, at Southwark, Kingston-upon-Thames last year, and at Chertsey in the present; upon which occasions Papers on various subjects of Local and General Antiquarian Interest, eleven in number, have been read, and a large number of Antiquities and Works of Art, chiefly connected with Surrey, have been exhibited, and opportunities of viewing them gratuitously afforded to upwards of 4,000 persons. Excavations, also, have been undertaken in the neighbourhood of Kingston, and at Chertsey, when discoveries of considerable interest were made.
The Council have to congratulate the Members upon the liberal donations received towards the formation of a Library and Museum. The former now consists of 63 volumes, many of the most valuable of which have been contributed by Dr. Roots, of Kingston; in addition to which the Society now possess various manuscripts, 48 pamphlets, besides printed papers. We have also numerous drawings, topographical and other prints, rubbings of brasses, many of which have been presented by Thomas R. Bartrop, our Local Secretary at Chertsey. To Captain Oakes and Mr. Laing (Members) the Society is indebted for several valuable photographs.
The Museum has received some important additions from the Committee of the late Chertsey Literary and Scientific Institution, and other contributors. Mr. Joshua W. Butterworth, F.S.A., has just presented a most valuable collection of Roman and early English antiquities, consisting of glass, pottery, fibulæ, and other bronzes, fragments of tesselated pavements and fresco painting, all of which are of extreme local interest, having been discovered in London and Southwark.
The Council also received, some time since, an offer from Mr. Phillips, of Bermondsey, to present to the Society various fragments of the ancient abbey formerly existing there, collected by his late father and himself; but were compelled to postpone their acceptance of this proffered liberality owing to want of space for their reception.
The Council having received a proposition to the effect that the operations of the Society may be advantageously extended to the county of Middlesex, in order to comprise within the sphere of a single institution the entire metropolis, and also to obtain a complete and careful investigation of the archæology of the principal metropolitan county, so fertile in objects of antiquity of every period from the Roman invasion, they have no hesitation in submitting the proposal to this Meeting, and of expressing their cordial approval of the suggestion.
On the 30th of June, 1854, when the first Annual Meeting of the Society was held at Kingston-upon-Thames, the total number of Members was 374, of whom 40 were Life Members; while at the present time the number is 415 (56 being Life Members), showing, notwithstanding a loss of 28 Members by decease and retirement, owing to the war and other causes, the satisfactory increase of 16 Life and 25 Annual Members; making a total gain of 41.
The Council regret that so many Subscriptions remaining unpaid has prevented their commencing the publication of Transactions. It must be manifest that with so small a Subscription, it not only is essential for effecting the objects we have in view that a large number of Members be enrolled, but also that the Rule which provides for the payment in advance of Subscriptions should be adhered to; whereas many of our Members continue in arrear, notwithstanding repeated applications, which entail a large amount of useless trouble and expense, and tend greatly to obstruct the progress of the Society.
The Council have much gratification in stating that friendly relations have been established with thirteen kindred Societies, and that in nearly every case the Committees, without waiting until the interchange of publication's agreed upon could be effected, have promptly and liberally forwarded to us copies of their Transactions.
On the motion of the Chairman, the Report was unanimously adopted. The Balance-sheet was also read, and, with the Report, ordered to be printed for circulation amongst the Members, which has been done.
The Rev. Charles Boutell then brought forward a proposition to the effect that the operation of the Society should be extended to the county of Middlesex. In a discussion which ensued, the motion was opposed by the Earl of Lovelace, Rev. J. Chandler, Mr. Godwin-Austen, Mr. H. L. Long, and supported by other Members. The adjournment of the question for a year was ultimately agreed to.
Several new Members were elected, and the Office-bearers for the ensuing year appointed.
A Paper, on the "Monumental Brasses of Surrey," was read by the Rev. Charles Boutell, M.A.
The Chairman then called on Mr. Godwin-Austen to read his promised Paper on "The Castle," but Mr. Austen suggested, that as the day was beautiful, and the foliage in the castle grounds would afford shade from the sun, it would be more desirable to repair thither.
It being arranged that this proposal should be acted on,
The Earl of Lovelace said—I rise to propose a vote of thanks to Mr. Evelyn, who has so readily come from a distance to preside over this Meeting. That he should evince his usual courtesy and ability in doing so was perhaps to be expected, but on this occasion the Meeting has especial cause to feel beholden to him for the address and tact which he has displayed in disposing of a difficult question, and preventing us from coming to a precipitate, and therefore indiscreet, vote on a subject whereon we were unprepared, and adopting a decision which must be fatal to the independence and prosperity of the Society. (Applause.) As I have not previously had an opportunity of attending the Meetings of this Society, I was anxious to avail myself of the present one to express my gratification at the progress it Las made, and my conviction of its utility. (Applause.) It is not merely for the notice and preservation of things that are merely old, nor even for inculcating their close imitation in the works of art in use at the present day, but in order that by studying and analyzing them we may impregnate ourselves with some of the principles that operated in the minds of the original artisans and designers of the various remains of antiquity, and thus improve our taste, that societies of this kind are valuable. (Applause.) The artists, sculptors, architects, and painters of ancient times put their mind into their works, and made them, so to speak, tell a certain story. The execution is often rude, but the feeling and interest are obvious. I believe that this was the condition of the fine arts, that their first commencements, though timid and imperfect, were full of expression and sentiment; that after a time they attained a greater perfection, in which the execution equalled conception, which was followed in most cases by a decline, in which the artistical feeling was superseded by the mechanical excellence of workmanship; and our buildings, our statues, our paintings at last lost distinguishing and purpose-like expression, however successful they might be in copying and imitating. (Applause.) It is because I believe societies of this description, by setting us thinking and reasoning on these matters, will lead to the improvement of taste, that I conceive they are entitled to the support of the public. (Applause.) In conclusion, I think the Meeting ought to agree to a cordial vote of thanks to Mr. Evelyn for his conduct this day in the Chair. (Loud applause.)
The Chairman having returned thanks for the compliment, the Meeting separated.
The Castle was then visited by the kind permission of W. Madox Blackwood, Esq., of Castle House, who had hospitably provided luncheon for the numerous party.
Mr. R. Godwin-Austen delivered an able discourse upon the history of this ancient feudal edifice, and pointed out its various architectural features.
The very interesting Church of St. Mary was next visited under the guidance of the Rev. Charles Boutell, who favoured the company with much valuable information upon its architecture and its peculiarities of construction.
At five o'clock a party of about 120 ladies and gentlemen sat down to a cold collation, provided at the White Hart Hotel. Mr. Evelyn presided, and in proposing "The Health of her Majesty the Queen," alluded to the loyalty of Guildford, observing,—I cannot but recall, in connection with the subject of our present Meeting, some passages in the history of this borough. I remember reading, that during the imprisonment of one of our Kings, who was afterwards executed, the inhabitants of Surrey met at Guildford, in public Meeting, and resolved to present a petition to the Legislature, praying that the King might be saved, and that peace might be restored to the country. I regret to say that the body to which I belong refused to receive it; but nothing daunted by the dangers which menaced them, the petitioners proceeded to Westminster to present it, and some of them were even massacred in their endeavours to do so. And I was sorry to read that on the restoration of the Stuarts their loyalty was but ill repaid, for the town of Guildford was compelled to surrender its Charter, and was not exempt from the fate which met other boroughs. We are happy in living at a period when such measures are impossible, and under a Sovereign we all respect, and whose health Englishmen are always happy to drink. (Applause.)
Upon "The Health of the Earl of Lovelace, Lord-Lieutenant of the County," being proposed, his Lordship, after congratulating the Society on the progress it had made, and the welcome with which it had been received in Guildford, observed that—"Formerly a certain amount of ridicule was cast upon the lovers of antiquity, because their admiration of the memorials and relics of former times was indiscriminate and unreasoning; but it is not so now. There is an advantage in people being set thinking, in their asking the reason why such forms are adopted, such contrivances resorted to as appear in the works of our forefathers. (Hear, hear.) The more those are studied, the more it will appear that the designers acted with purpose and feeling, and therefore gave expression to that which proceeded from their hands. We have no right, then, to despise the old, for the moderns in matters of taste do not equal them. If this is not so; if the artistic conceptions of the present day in any of the textile or hardware manufactures now produced be satisfactory, why should there be this morbid appetite for new patterns and fashions in almost every branch of our manufactures, unless it be tacitly but universally acknowledged that they fail to be agreeable to the eye, or to satisfy the mind? We did not experience this deficiency in the memorials by which we were surrounded in the morning; and however uncouth some of the dresses and armour may have appeared, from our want of familiarity with them, assuredly both the favours and the ornaments by which they were distinguished were more refined than the habiliments of the present generation."
Mr. H. Lawes Long proposed "The Health of Mr. John Britton," who had favoured the Society with his presence, and who might justly be regarded as the Father of British Archæology.
Mr. Britton, in a speech of much vivacity and energy, acknowledged the compliment, concluding by expressing the hope that the younger Members around him might attain the ripe old age to which he had attained, and might, at the age of 84, be as happy as he then was.
Before leaving the town, many of the visitors proceeded to view Abbot's Hospital,—over which they were conducted by Mr. George Russel, the Master,—and the Town Hall; also the remarkable Crypt under the Angel Inn.
In the evening a Conversazione was held in the Public Hall. The attendance was very numerous, and a better opportunity was afforded for examining the temporary Museum than had been possible in the morning. The Collection comprised—
An extensive series of Rubbings of Monumental Brasses, illustrating Mr. Boutell's Paper on the subject.
The Drawings of the Chertsey Tile Pavement, before referred to.
Mr. Shurlock kindly added, on this occasion, a Model, showing the Abbey Walls and the Stone Coffins.
In the absence of Mr. Shurlock, these Discoveries were briefly described by the Rev. C. Boutell.
The Mayor and Corporation of Guildford exhibited the various Charters of the Town; also, their Ancient Maces, Cups, and other Municipal appurtenances.
Mr. J. More Molyneux, F.S.A., exhibited the far-famed Loseley Manuscripts, in ten volumes, Folio, and other curious Documents, amongst which was an Advertisement of "A very rich lotterie generall without any blanckes, emprynted at London, in Pater Noster Rowe, by Henry Bynneman, anno 1567."
Mr. Godwin-Austen exhibited a Collection of Ancient Arms and Armour, old Books and Documents; and a very singular Iron Box, with elaborate and curious Lock.
A Letter from the Czar of Muscovy to Charles II., with Seal attached, dated 1662. By W. J. Evelyn, Esq., M.P.
The following curious Document was exhibited by R. Eager, Esq., and is recorded here as illustrative of the singular superstition to which it refers:—
We whose names are subscribed Parishioners of ye Parish of Bramly in ye County of Surrey do hereby certify all whom it may concern that Richard Field Inhabitant of ye aforesaid Parish hath of late been very much troubled with several swellings about him, and recourse hath been had to Physicians for ye Cure of ye same but he can receive no benefit thereby; and his distemper is judged by Doctors to be ye Evill⋅ and therefore we doe hereby recommend ye said Richard Field as a fitt person to be touched by the Kings Matie
. for the same disease: And we do further certify that the
∧ said person was never touched by his Matie
. before for the said Distemper: In witness whereof we have hereunto sett our hands the Twentieth day of March 1676 and in the Nine and Twentieth year of his
∧ Maties
. Reign.
| John Reynoldson | ||
| Vicar | ||
| Roger Shenford | Churchwardens. | |
| Nathaniell Morland |
Lady Jervis exhibited two small Miniature Portraits of King Charles I. and his Queen Henrietta; by a remarkable mechanical contrivance the Head-dresses and other Attire of the Royal Pair may be altered.
A Massive Antique Key, formerly belonging to Old Trinity Church. By Mrs. Beloe.
Roman Sepulchral Urn, Vase, Lamps, and Bottle, Earthen Stamp for wax, Bronze Celts, Leaves of the Papyrus, &c. By C. B. Cayley, Esq.
Ancient Coins, Seals, Tiles, Keys, &c., and two Singular Cannon-balls discovered in excavating for the Railway, near Guildford. By Mr. John Nealds.
A number of Ancient Coins, found principally in Fields adjacent to Guildford, were exhibited by the Misses Duncomb, Samuel Sharp, Esq., and B. Stedman, Esq.
Mr. Webb, Hon. Sec., exhibited a Collection of Autographs of British Military and Naval Commanders, commencing with Howard, Earl of Nottingham, who defeated the Spanish Armada; and comprising Letters and Documents of Sir John Hawkins, Monk, Duke of Albemarle, Lord Fairfax, Edward Russell, Earl of Orford, &c.
The proceedings of the evening were much enlivened by the performances of the fine band of the 2nd Royal Surrey Militia, which, by the kind permission of Colonel the Earl of Lovelace, attended both at the Dinner and the Conversazione.
On Friday the 29th, Excursions were made to Sutton Place, Newark Abbey, and to that fine old mansion Loseley House, and the interesting Church at Compton.
During the succeeding day, the Collection of Antiquities and Works of Art was thrown open gratuitously to the public. Several hundreds of persons, chiefly inhabitants of the town, availed themselves of the privilege. The Rev. C. Boutell attended in the evening, and repeated his remarks upon the Chertsey Tiles and the Surrey Brasses, adding notices of the other objects of curiosity in the Exhibition. The band of the Militia was again in attendance.
In concluding this Report, it becomes a bounden duty to bear grateful testimony to the kind and hearty welcome with which the Society was received in Guildford, and to record the excellent services rendered by the Local Committee, as well as by our zealous and very active Local Secretary, Henry F. Napper, Esq.
SOUTHWARK.
A Special General Meeting was held in Southwark on the 30th of October, 1855. The use of the Branch School-room of St. Olave, in Magdalene-street, Tooley-street, was kindly granted on this occasion by the Warden of the School, John Ledger, Esq. The Chair was occupied by William Pritchard, Esq., High Bailiff of Southwark, and Vice-President of the Society.[2]
The object for which the Meeting had been convened, in accordance with the Rules, was the consideration of a proposal to withraw a portion (£75) of the invested capital, for the purpose of defraying the expense of publishing the first portion of the Transactions. It was explained that this step was rendered necessary by the neglect by many Members of the repeated applications for their Subscriptions. After a brief discussion, the proposition was put and carried, with one dissentient.
The following Paper was read:—
Notices of Horseley Down. By George R. Corner, Esq., F.S.A.
In illustration of this Paper, Mr. Corner exhibited a curious Drawing, representing a Fair held on Horsley Down, in 1599; it is copied from a painting in the collection of the Marquis of Salisbury, at Hatfield, presumed to be the production of George Hofnagle, a Flemish artist, in Queen Elizabeth's time. Also, a Map of Horsley Down, made in 1546.
A Small Brass Figure, representing a Warrior in Roman Costume, found some years since in Guildford Castle, was exhibited by Colonel the Hon. M. E. Onslow, Vice-President.
Thanks having been voted to Mr. Corner and to Mr. Ledger, the proceedings terminated. Previous to leaving the building, Mr. Corner called attention to the newly erected Grammar School of St. Olave, designed by Messrs. Snooke, Allen, and Stock, and which, although modern, he considered well worthy of inspection. Accordingly, the Members proceeded to the building, over which they were conducted by Mr. Stock, to whom the chief credit of this very fine structure is due.
At two o'clock a visit was paid to the ancient Church of St. Saviour. A Paper, by George Gwilt, Esq., F.S.A., descriptive of the architecture of the edifice, was read in the Vestry, by the Honorary Secretary. The Rev. Charles Boutell, Hon. Member, also gave an Historical Sketch of the Church; and afterwards, in conjunction with Mr. Gwilt, pointed out to the party the more prominent and peculiar features of the building, as well as the interesting Monuments it contains.
Mr. Corner subsequently read, in the Vestry, some curious Wills of former inhabitants of Southwark, communicated by Miss Julia Bockett, of Reading. The thanks of the Meeting were voted to that Lady, and to the High Bailiff, for his courteous and efficient performance of the duties of President, when the proceedings concluded.
GEORGE BISH WEBB,
6, Southampton Street, Covent Garden,
- ↑ It will not, perhaps, be deemed out of place to mention that the Society was originated by Mr. George Bish Webb, the present Honorary Secretary, by whom the first Circular proposing its establishment was issued in August, 1852. No great progress was made until October, 1853, when the Provisional Committee (since become the Council) commenced their periodical Meetings. The kindness of Mr. Hesketh, in allowing these Meetings to be held at his private residence, deserves special mention.
- ↑ During the commencement of the proceedings, Mr. Pritchard not having arrived, the Chair was occupied by Robert Hesketh, Esq., Member of the Council.