Chapter IV: Part 4

The affectionate interest manifested by Dr. Butler in the welfare of his pupils remained nearest to his heart to the last. {101} And in retiring from the duties of his scholastic station, in 1836, it appeared as his greatest comfort and happiness to find that St. John’s College had given a good earnest of its intention to uphold the character of the school over which he had so long and so zealously presided, by the selection of the Rev. Benjamin Hall Kennedy as has successor, an appointment (it will be admitted by all) the most conducive to the future prosperity of the school, and consequently beneficial to the town and neighbourhood; inasmuch as it is stamped upon high and indubitable authority that Mr. Kennedy is one of the most brilliant scholars which the learned editor of Æschylus ever sent forth,—the brightest star in that galaxy of distinguished pupils whose names adorn the boards of Shrewsbury school; while from his experience of Dr. Butler’s system, both as a pupil and assistant master in this seminary,—his subsequent practice as a lecturer and private tutor at College, and as an assistant master for upwards of six years at Harrow, as well as from his own unrivalled talents and high literary distinctions,—from his fine taste and sound learning,—there is not a shadow of doubt but that he will fully maintain the reputation Shrewsbury School has already acquired.

The following annual prizes are distributed—

Pelham Prizes Latin Verse 20 guineas. Greek Iambics 10 guineas. Trustees’ Prize Latin Essay 20 guineas. Assistant Master’s Prize Latin Translation 10 guineas. Head Master’s Prizes For the First and Second Books. in the Examination

In 1832 this ancient and royal foundation was visited by three members of the royal family within two months: by his Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, Sept. 5th; by their Royal Highnesses the Duchess of Kent and the Princess Victoria, Nov. 1st.

THE SCHOOLS

are situate near the Castle, and display a handsome spacious structure of free-stone, built in the incongruous but fashionable style of architecture which prevailed in the 16th and 17th century; wherein the Grecian and pointed arches are fantastically mixed together. The building occupies two sides of a quadrangle, with a square pinnacled tower at the angle, partly rebuilt in 1831.

The original school-room was of timber, to which the tower, chapel, and library were added in 1595. In the year 1630 the wooden portion was removed, and its site occupied by the present edifice, in the centre of which is a gateway, having a Corinthian column on each side, upon which are statues of a scholar and a graduate, bareheaded, in the dress of the times. Above the arch is a Greek inscription from Isocrates, which implies that a love of literature is necessary to the formation of a scholar. Over this are the armorial bearings of Charles the First.

The upper story of this part is occupied by the principal school-room, an apartment 82 feet by 21, and in the basement is the head master’s school, in which are several panels containing the names of gentlemen educated here, and who have subsequently distinguished themselves at the Universities. {103} The upper moulding of each panel contains one of the following lines:—

TV • FACITO • MOX • CVM • MATVRA • ADOLEVERIT • AETAS SIS • MEMOR •
ATQVE • ANIMO • REPETAS • EXEMPLA • TVORVM ET • TVA • TE • VIRTVS •
MAGNA • INTER • PRAEMIA • DVCET.

The chapel forms the other wing of the building, and was consecrated Sept. 10th, 1617, when a sermon was preached on the occasion by Sampson Price, D.D. Chaplain in Ordinary to the King, from John x. 22, 23. It is 62 ft. long by 22 ft. wide, and contains a handsome pulpit and bible stand, and is separated from the ante-chapel by a carved skreen, displaying a series of interlaced arches resting on fluted Corinthian columns. Prayers are read here twice on school days.

Above the chapel, and of the same size, is the library, a noble room, rebuilt in 1815. The ceiling is richly adorned, and panelled into Gothic and ornamental compartments, on which are displayed the armorial bearings of the first and subsequent trustees. It contains a valuable collection of printed books and manuscripts, one side being occupied by the library of the late Dr. Taylor, editor of Demosthenes. Among the portraits which decorate the walls of this elegant apartment are those of the Bishop of Lichfield (late head master), the Reverends John Lloyd and Leonard Hotchkiss (formerly masters), Queen Elizabeth, King Henry VIII. Edward VI. (the Founder), Locke, Judge Jefferies, &c. &c.

At the south end of the room are four sepulchral stones found at Wroxeter, near this town, three of which are fully described by Pennant, in his North Wales. A small museum likewise contains other Roman antiquities from the same place, with fossils and other curiosities.

The windows are embellished with escutcheons of the arms of Edward VI. Queen Elizabeth, St. John’s College, Cambridge, the See of Lichfield, and the town, in stained glass.

In front and at the back of the schools is a spacious area, used as a promenade or play-ground for the scholars; contiguous to which are houses for the head, second, and assistant masters, and ample halls for the accommodation of boarders, who are numerous, and from all parts of the kingdom.

Several exhibitions of £70 and £80 a-year belong to this school, to which the freemen’s sons are entitled for a certain number of years. At a meeting of the trustees, held 23d May, 1836, it was resolved, in order more fully to testify their own sense, and to perpetuate the memory, of the unremitting assiduity and eminent ability with which Dr. Butler has performed the duties of head-master of this school for a period of thirty-eight years, restoring and augmenting by his energy and learning the utility and celebrity of this ancient and royal foundation, to found an additional exhibition of £100 per annum, to be called for ever “DR. BUTLER’S EXHIBITION,” and to be tenable by the sons of freemen entering at either University.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT, CHARTERS, &c.

[Picture: Town Arms]

SHREWSBURY has received a succession of thirty-two royal charters from the time of King William the First to the first year of the reign of James the Second. The earliest charter preserved in the corporation archives is dated Nov. 11, 1189, being the first year of King Richard the First, which recites that a previous corporation had existed.

The last governing charter of the town was granted the 16th of June, 1639, by Charles the First.

The component parts of the corporation were a mayor, recorder, steward, common clerk, twenty-four aldermen, forty-eight assistants or common councilmen, two chamberlains, sword-bearer, serjeants at mace, &c.

The mayor was elected annually by the majority of aldermen and assistants, in council assembled, on the first Friday after the feast of St. Bartholomew, and sworn into office the first Friday after Michaelmas-day. Robert Burton, jun. Esq. was the last mayor chosen under the old charter.

The aldermen were elected by the mayor and aldermen from the assistants, and the latter from the burgesses at large.

Burgesses obtained their freedom by descent, or birth, or by serving a bona fide apprenticeship of seven years within the ancient limits of the borough to a freeman of one of the ancient incorporated companies.

According to the Municipal Act, which received the royal assent in 1835, the town was divided into five wards. {106}

On the 26th of December, 1835, each of the wards returned six members to form the new Town Council, who elected to their number, on the 31st, ten aldermen, which constitutes the municipal body of the town, from whom William Hazledine, Esq. was elected Mayor. To assist in the local government, the Secretary of State has subsequently appointed eight magistrates. Under the provisions of the above cited act, the annual election of mayor is fixed for the 9th of November.

The ancient COMMON SEAL of the municipal body is very curious, representing a view of the town,—its churches, domestic habitations, fortified gates and walls, beneath which the river is seen flowing under a bridge; above the latter is a shield bearing the arms of England, and on each side are similar shields charged with the cross of St. George and the town arms,—Azure, three leopard’s faces Or. The inscription round this seal is—Sigilin • commune • libertatis • ville • Salopesburie • factu • ano • gre • m cccc xxv.

SESSIONS.

A petty sessions is held every Tuesday, and the mayor or some of the magistrates sit most days for the determination of minor offences.

A general court of QUARTER SESSIONS and gaol delivery for the town and liberties is held by the recorder, John Bather, Esq. on the Wednesday after the county sessions.

COURT OF RECORD.

This town possesses the privilege of a court of record, where actions for debt (to any amount) and ejectment within the liberties, can be brought. Judgment in a suit may be obtained in about six weeks, if the defendant pleads the general issue.

COURT OF REQUESTS.

Small debts exceeding two shillings and under forty shillings, are taken cognizance of by a Court of Requests, established in 1783. The court meets every other Wednesday in the Town Hall, the commissioners of which must be resident within the town, and possessed of freehold property of thirty pounds per annum value, or a clear personal estate of £600 value.

MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT.

This town is a borough by prescription, and has sent two members to parliament from the earliest assembling of that body. Previous to the general reform act the right of election was in the burgesses inhabiting within the ancient borough, paying scot and lot, and not receiving alms or charity. The elective franchise is now extended to £10 householders resident within the boundaries settled by act of parliament, July 15, 1832.

TRADING COMPANIES.

From a remote period several incorporated trading companies existed here, {107} who exacted fines from what were termed “foreigners;” that is, individuals who had not served an apprenticeship to a freeman, or who were not the eldest sons of freemen, if they commenced business in the “craft or calling” of any of these guilds; the chief of which were the Drapers and Mercers: the former possessed a considerable property, and were incorporated by Edward the Fourth, as were the latter in 1480 by the same king. The Barber Chirurgeons were chartered by Edward the First in 1304, and incorporated by James II. in 1686, with the Wax and Tallow Chandlers. The charter of the com-brethren of Painters, Booksellers, &c. is dated May 8th, 19th of Edward IV. The Builders, &c. 19th Q. Elizabeth, 1577. The composition of the Tailors, 1627, and recites a more ancient grant. The Smiths, Armourers, &c. have a composition, 19th James I. 1621. That of the Shoemakers is the most recent, being dated 1739. The Butchers have lost their charter, money, and records; and several other “crafts” have only left a name behind.

These fraternities comprehend in their incorporation many more trades than have been specified. Their utility in the infancy of commerce, as so many brotherhoods for the protection of different trading interests, is evident; but having survived the original purpose of institution, their advantage had been long questioned, and the powers which they possessed became defunct under the recent Municipal Bill. It is not, however, too much to suppose but they might, as SOCIAL BODIES, still effect many good purposes, not the least of which would be the aggregation of brotherly feeling and good fellowship.

SHREWSBURY SHOW.

This annual pageant is perhaps, with the exception of Coventry, the only one of the kind in the kingdom. It originated in the celebration of the splendid festival of Corpus Christi in the church of Rome, which was observed with much pomp and solemnity by the masters and wardens of the different trading companies, the members of the corporation, the parochial clergy, and the religious fraternities of the town.

The procession, so far back as the 27th of Henry VI. appears to have been “tyme owt of mynde,” and which several of the guilds were obliged to support. This is apparent from their “compositions,” or bye-laws, containing regulations to that effect. That of the Weavers (anno 1444) provides, that certain fines shall be applied to the “sustentacon and encreece of the lyght of the seyd crafte of Wev’s, at the feast of Corpus Xp’i daye.” The composition of the Mercers, Ironmongers, and Goldsmiths directs that they shall provide “300 mede of wax yearly, to be burnt in the p’cession of the feast of Corpus Xp’i.”

After the Reformation, the religious part of the ceremony was set aside, and as a substitute the second Monday after Trinity Sunday adopted as a day of recreation and feasting on Kingsland, where each company had a small enclosure, within which is a building called an “arbour,” surrounded by trees, and where refreshment was accustomed to be liberally provided by the respective trades. Only seven of the arbours now remain, each of which had formerly the arms of the company carved or painted over the entrance.

The anniversary has often been anticipated by Salopians with feelings of delight,—as affording an annual treat of hospitality and good cheer. The town on the occasion has presented an appearance of lively interest, conducive also to its trade; the bells of the different churches sent forth their melodious and enlivening peals, while the incorporated companies were passing to their places of muster; at noon they assembled together at the Castle, from whence they proceeded through the streets to Kingsland, accompanied by their respective flags, banners, and music of all kinds, most of the companies having some character dressed in personification of a king, or emblematical of their respective crafts, and followed by a goodly array of com-brethren walking (as it were) hand in hand together. The mayor and his friends followed afterwards on horseback, and were wont to be entertained by the trading companies with a dejeune in each arbour.

Such was “Shrewsbury Show.” An attempt was made in 1823 to revive the ancient pageantry; but during the last few years there has been a sad falling off in the display, and it is to be feared that the manifold changes of the present times, and the refined dispositions (probably) of some modern minds, are causes that will soon hasten to a discontinuance what remains of this ancient custom and lively picture of old English manners. {110}

The following extract from a scarce poem published in the year 1770, entitled “Shrewsbury Quarry,” is probably the only authentic account which will afford some idea of the “Show” at that period:—

What friendly forms in social pomp draw near,
With thankful smiles to bless the bounteous year!
In glad procession, brotherhood, and bloom,
(Like _Flora’s_ festals near thy walls, oh Rome,)
The bands distinguished, yet harmonious move,
Their ensigns concord, and their leaders love;
To KINGSLAND’S Arbours once a year they go,
In ordered elegance serene and slow;
The Bodies Corporate in classes bright—
In different classes, but in one delight;
There blend with mutual hands the friendly bowls,
There blend their wishes and there blend their souls;
The yearly _Archon_ {111} over all presides,
Their state he governs, and their joy he guides,
There mixing jovial with each jovial band,
To each he gives his heart—to each his hand;
With each he quaffs the invigorating cheer,
To friendship sacred, and the hallow’d year;
There union, brotherhood, and mirth combine,
In every face these vital virtues shine.
The sun would gladly in his course delay,
And stretch beyond its lengthened bound the day,
To gaze with rapture, as each bosom glows,
On these rich blessings which his beam bestows;
His prone career, his cadence they behold,
His western stage in crimson clad, and gold,
They see his orb reluctant now go down,
Then march in happy order back to town;
There polish’d pleasures teem with new delight,
And balls and banquets crown the genial night.

THE COUNTY HALL.

[Picture: The County Hall]

Architectural excellence has been said to consist in the judicious and skilful adaptation of an edifice to its specific destination, and in the appropriate and tasteful display of its interior and exterior ornaments, and that public buildings should be distinguished by decisive and apposite characteristic features of their purpose. How far this has been exemplified in the Salop County Hall, the foregoing illustrative vignette will in a great measure decide. The design is by Sir Robert Smirke, and the style Italian; the main feature of the elevation being a bold cornice resting on sculptured modillons.

The principal front is divided into three divisions by projecting string courses, and is 112½ feet in length; the portion facing High-street, 58 feet; height to the top of parapet 54 feet.

On examining the interior of the structure, it will be evident that the architect has made the most of a very limited space of ground: the different apartments are convenient, lofty, and well adapted to the various purposes for which they are intended. The offices in particular, although plain, are fitted up in a most substantial manner.

The entrance hall is 22 feet 8 inches by 21½ feet, having on the right a lobby leading to the crown court, and a room for the use of witnesses waiting for examination in that court. On the left is a similar entrance to the nisi prius court, and the mayor’s room (appropriated to counsel during the assizes). Opposite the entrance door is the grand staircase, spacious and of easy ascent; on the first landing are three doorways, the centre one leading to the judges’ retiring room (which communicates with the courts), and those on either hand to the magisterial bench in the respective courts, which are of equal dimensions, 42 feet by 36 feet. {114}

The accommodation for the gentlemen of the bar was intended to have been similar to that provided (under the direction of the same architect) in the Court of King’s Bench and several other places; but objections being made by the counsel on this circuit, and a petition sent to the magistrates, this arrangement was altered, and the space immediately before the judge is occupied by a large table, with sufficient seats for twenty counsellors, having a row of seats behind for attornies.

The bench is elevated 3½ feet above the floor, on each side of which is accommodation for the magistrates.

The ceiling of both courts is panelled and ornamented, and the walls are lined with wood as high as the small side galleries, which are intended for the use of the grand and special jurors.

In each court is a gallery for the public, the two front benches of which are partitioned off for jurymen in waiting. To these galleries are separate entrances from the principal front, in order to prevent the annoyance of a crowd in the vestibule of the hall, through which admittance will be afforded for those persons who have business in the courts.

Under the public galleries are lock-up rooms for the jury.

The nisi prius court is lighted by a lantern, which occupies a considerable space in the ceiling; and beneath the public gallery of this court is the waiting-room for witnesses. The first story is approached by a broad flight of stairs: on the left is the grand jury room, 30 feet by 18 feet, lofty and finished in a tasteful manner, having a communication with the gallery in the crown court for the presentment of bills. Attached to this apartment is a large room for witnesses attending the grand jury; the floor is of stone, and forms the ceiling of the entrance hall. To the right is the office of the clerk of indictments.

From this division of the building the staircase leads to the entrance of the GREAT ROOM, adapted for a third court or other public purposes requiring space. It is decorated with an enriched cornice and panelled ceiling; the dimensions are 45½ feet by 32½ feet, and 19 feet high, having a recess at one end; it is lighted by windows at the side and back, and is well ventilated by means of tubes which pass from the ceiling through the roof.

By another ascent of steps the upper floor is gained. To the left are offices for the clerk of the peace, with a fire-proof room as a depositary for records. Similar rooms to the right are appropriated for the town clerk.

In the rear of the building is a house for the hall-keeper, resting over an entrance intended as a passage for the cart conveying prisoners from the gaol, where they are set down in an area having stairs leading to spacious and airy cells; these, with cellars for other purposes, occupy a considerable portion of the base of the building, which stands upon a concrete foundation, 10 feet thick, rendered necessary (from the insufficient state of the ground) to support the weight of a massive structure. In excavating for this purpose, many curiosities were found; and although the required depth was 19 feet below the level of the street, the natural strata was not discovered, the whole bed being a complete bog of peaty soil of unequal depth,—a sufficient cause for all the fissures visible for several years past in the external and internal walls of the former fabric, which was only completed in 1785, at a cost of £11,000.

In 1832, Thomas Telford, Esq. was requested to examine the nature of the foundations, when it appeared that the oak sapling piles, or rather stakes, on which the building rested were totally decayed, and become as soft as the earth by which they were surrounded. To restore the walls to a sound state was deemed a difficult and expensive undertaking, even if practicable. A new building was therefore determined upon, Sir Robert Smirke having guaranteed a sufficient foundation on the old site, by taking out the whole of the soil, and replacing it by an artificial body of concrete. His plan was adopted by the county magistrates, Jan. 28th, 1834, and in the month of April workmen commenced taking down the old edifice, {116} and the new building progressed towards completion so as to be ready by March, 1837.

The foundations appear to have succeeded beyond the expectations of all concerned, and the building does great credit to the contractors, Messrs. Birch and Sons. The estimated cost is about £12,000, raised by a county rate.

THE GUILD HALL AND EXCHEQUER

of the town is incorporated with the county hall, by an arrangement with the county previous to the erection of the late edifice.

The following portraits, presented to the late corporation, will decorate the walls of the new building:—King Charles I. Charles II. William III. George I. George II. George III. Queen Charlotte, Admiral Benbow (a native of Shrewsbury), the Right Hon. Lord Hill (by Sir William Beechy), and Admiral Owen (by R. Evans, Esq. a townsman). The two latter portraits possess life and spirit in their execution, and are justly esteemed most faithful resemblances of these illustrious heroes and fellow-citizens.

THE MARKET HOUSE

is a spacious building, unequalled in point of ornamental decoration by any similar structure in the kingdom. It not only gives a most prominent feature to the area in front of the county hall, but is a general and interesting object of attraction to strangers.

[Picture: Market House]

The principal front is to the west, over the portal of which are the arms of Queen Elizabeth in high relief, and the date 1596. On each side of this portal is an open arcade, consisting of three round arches, which form the main building; above these is a series of square mullioned windows, surmounted by a rich fanciful parapet consisting of curved embrasures, which rise at certain distances into a kind of pinnacle.

Above the northern arch is the following inscription, having on one side the arms of France and England quarterly, and on the other those of the town:—

The xvth day of June was this building begun,
William Jones and Thomas Charlton, Gent. then
Bailiffs, and was erected and covered in their time.
1595.

Immediately over this is a tabernacled niche, containing a fine statue of RICHARD DUKE OF YORK, in complete armour; one hand is supported on his breast, and the other pointing below to a device of three roses carved on a stalk. A tablet corresponding with the town arms, finely sculptured in relief, on the left hand of the figure, records its removal from the tower on the Welsh bridge, in 1791. In the same situation on the corresponding end of the hall is the figure of an angel in a canopied niche, bearing a shield of the arms of France and England quarterly. This originally stood within the chamber of the Gate Tower at the Castle Gates, from whence it was preserved when the remaining portion of that ancient barrier gave way to modern houses in 1825.

The basement of the Market House is 105 feet long by 24 feet wide, and is used on Saturdays as the corn-market; at other times it forms an useful promenade, especially in wet weather.

The inscription on the north end has often excited surprise, how so large and ornamental a building could have been completed within a period of less than four months. The nature of the case would seem, that the stone-work and timber-framing had perhaps previously been wrought, so that no time might be lost, and the utmost endeavours used, in the re-edification of a building which was almost indispensible at that period,—when corn was for the most part brought to market in the _bulk_, and not sold by _sample_ as in the present day. This conjecture is somewhat confirmed by the following extract from a manuscript chronicle in the possession of the writer:—

“1595. In the month of January this year the old building in the
Corn Market Place was agreed to be taken down, and the timber-work
thereof was sold, and another with all speed was to be erected with
stone and timber in the same place, and a sumptuous hall aloft, with
a spacious market house below for corn was begun, the foundation and
fencing whereof was a quarter of a year before it was finished, and
the stone work was begun upon the 15th day of June following, and was
finished and almost covered in before the bailiffs of the said year
went out of their office the Michaelmas following.”

THE BRIDGES.

Two handsome stone bridges cross the river Severn nearly in a parallel direction. These were preceded by very ancient structures, defended by embattled towers, and were excellent specimens of the fortified bridges necessary in former times for the protection of the town. Being extremely narrow and dilapidated, they were taken down in the last century; a brief notice, therefore, of their ancient state will be sufficient.

THE OLD WELSH BRIDGE

was considered as the chief architectural ornament of the town, consisting of seven arches, and situated a few yards higher up the stream than the present structure. Its gates and towers at each end were of the finest kind of castellated building, being richly decorated with shields and sculpture; and their demolition is much to be regretted.

Above one of the gates stood the armed statue of a knight, which was removed in 1791, and placed in a niche on the front of the Market House. This effigy was an important object of attraction to the Welshmen in passing through the gate, from a tradition retained by them even to modern times, that it represented Llewelyn Prince of Wales, or David, the last of the British Princes, whom Roger Coke facetiously calls “King Taffy,” but which recent antiquaries have, from its attendant embellishments, more properly assigned to Richard Duke of York, father of Edward IV.

THE OLD EAST OR STONE BRIDGE

consisted rather of two bridges (being divided by an island of 118 feet broad), extending 864 feet in length, and comprising seventeen arches. The thoroughfare over it in the widest part was only twelve feet, being impeded by a range of thirty-three houses disposed on each side, after the manner of London Bridge in former times.

The further bridge from the town had eleven arches, and was properly denominated: “THE ABBEY BRIDGE” for it extended to the precinct of the monastery, and passed over none of the water of the Severn except in times of flood, receiving only a small portion of a rivulet called Meole Brook, the channel of which is still visible in the meadows opposite the Council House.

The narrow state of this bridge having been long matter of complaint and inconvenience, a subscription was commenced in 1765 to widen it, towards which Sir John Astley, Bart. gave £1000.

The expediency of the undertaking was so apparent, from the liberal subscriptions which came in from all parts of the county, that encouragement was given to erect an entire new bridge, from a design furnished by Mr. John Gwynn, architect, of London, and a native of Shrewsbury. The first stone of the bridge was laid June 29th, 1769, by the munificent promoter of the undertaking, Sir John Astley, Bart; and the work was so far completed as to afford a passage (March 14th, 1774) for the High Sheriff, John Owen, Esq. of Woodhouse, and a numerous body of gentlemen on horseback who accompanied him to meet the judges of assize, whom they escorted into town over the new bridge, since styled

THE ENGLISH BRIDGE,

which is a most substantial structure, 410 ft. in length, and composed of seven arches, crowned by a bold balustrade; the primary object in its construction was to contrive as much space as possible for the water during floods, to accomplish which, the central arch (60 feet in diameter) was raised double the height of the end arches, an elevation perhaps not accordant with or agreeable to later opinions of ease and convenience. With the exception of this defect, its elegance and beauty of architecture is probably surpassed by few bridges in the kingdom, and is in every respect an ornament to the town, and an equally noble monument of the public spirit and generosity of the gentry of the county, who so laudably exerted themselves to further its erection.

The ornamental parts, though sparingly are yet tastefully disposed. The keystone of the central arch on the north side is adorned with a fine head of SABRINA, “goddess of the river,” while that on the opposite side bears a spirited head of NEPTUNE, the “father of fountains.” On the piers of this arch rest finely carved dolphins. The keystones of the other arches are worked into a shell. The parapet of the bridge rises into a pediment, in the centre of which (on each side facing the river) is the town arms, and the date of the completion of the bridge, MDCCLXXIV.

The total cost, including the purchase of the houses which stood on and near the bridge, acts of parliament, &c. was £15,710. 3s. 3d.

LORD HILL’S COLUMN.

[Picture: Lord Hill’s Column]

This noble column, erected in honour of the VALOUR and VIRTUES of an individual whose well-earned laurels have gained him a firm affection in the hearts of his countrymen, and truly rendered him SALOPIA’S PRIDE and ENGLAND’S GLORY, stands on a rising ground at the entrance of the town from the London road, and forms an interesting object to the surrounding country. It is said to be the largest Grecian Doric column in the world.

The first stone was laid by the Salopian Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, on the 27th December, 1814.

The pedestal is square, rising upon two steps, with a large pier at each angle, on which are placed lions couchant, worked out of Grinshill stone by Mr. Carline, of this town.

The diameter at the base is 15 feet, and the other dimensions are as follow:—

ft. in. Height of the pedestal 13 6 Shaft and capital 91 6 Pedestal for the figure 11 6 Statue of his lordship 17 0 Total height 133 6

The colossal statue of his Lordship on the summit is executed in artificial stone by Messrs. Coade and Sealy, of London, modelled by Panzetta. The original design for the column was by Mr. Haycock, of Shrewsbury.

The contractors were Messrs. Simpson and Lawrence; on the death of the former, the work devolved upon Mr. Straphen, who completed it, and erected the elegant staircase within the building at his own expense.

The last stone was laid in 1816, on the anniversary of the memorable battle of Waterloo.

On the pedestal are the following inscriptions:

ON THE SOUTH SIDE.

Civi • svo • Rolando
Domino • Baroni • Hill • ab • Almarez • et • Hawkstone
Popvlares • eivs • ex • agro • atqve • municipio • Salopiensi
Colvmnam • hancce • cvm • statva • P • C.
A • S • MDCCCXVI.
Is • in • re • militari • qvemadmodvm • se • gesserit
Testes • sint • Lvsitania • Hispania • Galliae
Narbonensis • ac • Belgica
Artvrivs • Dvx • a • Wellington
Sociorvm • et • qvidem • hostivm • exercitvs.

ON THE NORTH SIDE.

To Lieutenant General Rowland Lord Hill,
Baron Hill of Almarez and Hawkstone, G. C. B.
Not more distinguished for his skill and courage in the field,
During the arduous campaigns in Spain and Portugal,
The South of France, and the memorable Plains of Waterloo,
Than for his benevolent and paternal care,
In providing for the comforts and supplying the necessities
Of his victorious countrymen,
And for that humanity and generosity
Which their vanquished foes experienced and acknowledged:
The inhabitants of the Town and County of Salop
Have erected this Column and Statue,
As a memorial of their respect and gratitude to an illustrious
contemporary,
And an incitement to emulation in the heroes and
patriots of future ages.
A. D. MDCCCXVI.

ON THE EAST SIDE.

Roleia Arroyo del Molinos Hillette Vimiera Almarez Orthes Corunna Vittoria Aire Douro Pyrenees Tarbes Talavera Nive Toulouse Busaco Nivelle Waterloo.

This splendid memorial is constructed of fine Grinshill stone; the total expence, including the cottage and other incidentals, amounted to £5973. 13s. 2d. which was raised by a subscription throughout the county.

Within the shaft is a staircase of 172 steps, forming a well in the centre, each step having an iron baluster with a gilt letter inserted on a small panel, which gives the following inscription:—

“This staircase was the gift of John Straphen, the builder, as his
donation towards erecting this Column. The first stone of the
foundation was laid December 27th, 1814, and completed June 18th,
1816, the anniversary of the glorious Battle of Waterloo.”

The column may be ascended by a gratuity to the keeper, who resides in a neat Doric cottage adjoining.

From the railing at the top is a delightful panoramic view of the fertile plain of Shropshire, to which the bold appearance of Shrewsbury, and its once formidable Castle mantled with leafy verdure, forms a prominent contrast.

The surrounding distances are replete with interest, being composed of fine undulating hills and mountains. Proceeding northward, the eye ranges over the Nesscliff and Selattyn hills, the mountainous tract of the Berwyn, the luxuriantly crowned summit of Pimhill, the wild and romantic rock of Grinshill, and the gentler eminences of Hawkstone, whose tasteful plantations and noble woods are seen at a distance of twelve miles, among which rises the “Obelisk,” erected to the memory of Sir Rowland Hill, the first Protestant Lord Mayor of London.

In the foreground north-east is the plain, renowned in history, and immortalized by Shakspeare in dramatic poetry, as the scene of the great and important Battle of Shrewsbury, in 1403, in commemoration of which Henry IV. piously founded a church, called to this day “Battlefield,” the well-proportioned tower of which is easily distinguished.

The turrets of the modern castellated mansion of Sundorne are particularly striking, and remind us of the beautiful lines of Mrs. Hemans—

The stately Homes of England,
How beautiful they stand!
Amidst their tall ancestral trees,
O’er all the pleasant land.

Further eastward are the venerable and truly picturesque ruins of Haghmond Monastery, founded in the year 1100, for canons of the order of St. Augustine. Near the remains of this once more noble pile is the wooded ascent of Haghmond Hill, and its conspicuously placed Shooting Tower, beneath which is the retired village of Uffington and its primitive church.

Direct east stands exalted in noble majesty the isolated WREKIN, the _natural Heart of Shropshire_, in front of which appears the exuberant foliage surrounding Longner Hall. Directing the eye southwards, is Charlton Hill, bounded by the towering summit of the Brown Clee (1820 feet in height), and the Lawley, Acton Burnell Park, Frodesley, and other Shropshire hills, among which is the lofty Caerdoc, otherwise Caer Caradoc, where Caractacus (the last of the original British princes) is said to have displayed his patriotism and daring spirit against the united efforts of the Roman forces.

Onward in the horizon, beyond a remote cultivated country, is the Longmynd with its straight outline, and the Stiperstones, topped by rocks, similar to the august relics of castellated grandeur; these are connected by the Bromlow and Long Mountain; and the panorama terminates with the lofty mountains of Breidden, Cefn y Cayster, and Moelygolfa, which, with more distant eminences, form a fine back-ground to a portion of the town, while the middle distance all around is unequalled for richness and fertility.

Nor, whilst extolling the environs and distant scenes around, let us forget the immediate vicinity of the Column: its verdant pastures, sequestered lanes, stately trees, and rural scenery, are surpassed by none so near a populous county town.

THE TOWN AND COUNTY GAOL

Is situated on a dry, beautiful, and salubrious eminence, a short distance from the Castle.

The front of the prison displays rather a bold appearance, having two rusticated stone lodges and a gateway in the centre; over the latter is a bust of the philanthropic HOWARD, by Bacon.

The interior possesses every necessary convenience appropriate to its purpose that sagacity and humanity can devise. It is spacious, airy, and well supplied with water, by means of a pump worked by the prisoners.

The governor’s house faces the gateway, and forms the southern front of the building. The chapel stands in the centre of the whole, and is lighted by a lantern surmounted by a gilt cross. It is octagonal, and contrived that while all the prisoners may see the clergyman, every class is so separated as to be hid from each other.

The prison is further divided into eight principal courts, besides other smaller ones; these are surrounded by cloisters with groined arches; above these are the sleeping cells, the communication to which is by railed galleries. A due regard to the gradations of vice is strictly observed in the classification of the prisoners, most of whom are occupied during the day in some little manufactory or useful employment, by which habits of industry are acquired that may protect them from temptations to plunder or misconduct when released from confinement.

Executions take place on the roof of the porter’s lodge.

The prison was begun in 1787, and completed (from a plan by Mr. Haycock) in 1793, at an expense of about £30,000. The entire building is surrounded by a strong brick wall, flanked with rusticated stone buttresses.

THE BUTTER AND POULTRY MARKET,

on Pride-hill, was erected in 1819 by voluntary contributions amounting to £2000. It is a building unworthy our town and the ample produce brought to its weekly markets. In 1830 it was adjudged to be taken down as being unsuitable and incommodious. A meeting was held to arrange for a new building upon an improved plan, the money to be raised by shares of £25 each, but circumstances prevented this desirable undertaking, which is much to be regretted, as complaints have long been made of the obstruction in the thoroughfare (which is often attended with delay and danger) on market and fair days, by persons exposing their goods and marketables for sale in the street.

THE CIRCUS BUTTER & CHEESE MARKET,

from its situation near the Welsh Bridge, possesses superior advantages for the conveyance of goods and general trade. It was opened about the year 1822 by Mr. H. Newton.

THE NEW BUTTER AND CHEESE MARKET

Is an elegant and commodious edifice situated in Howard-street, Castle-foregate, and possesses every requisite convenience for the disposal of butter, cheese, and other agricultural produce, and merchandize.

[Picture: Howard-street Butter and Cheese Market]

The exterior consists of a centre and two wings, the centre forming the portico and principal entrance, which is decorated with two Grecian columns and entablature. The whole of the front is cemented, and possesses an unity of parts and a boldness of proportion unusual in buildings of this description.

The interior is divided into two stories, the lower or basement being vaulted with groined arches springing from brick piers, which afford an equality of height in almost every part. The entrance to the basement is on the north side, and (owing to the fall in the street) is of sufficient height to admit a waggon. The canal is on the south side, and nearly level with the floor of the basement, to which there is a communication, affording a ready transit for goods.

The upper or principal floor of the Market contains an area of 5400 feet; the roof is supported by four rows of iron pillars; the centre part being raised nine feet, has a range of windows on each side, by which a proper ventilation is obtained as well as additional light.

Attached to the upper end of the building is a second entrance, communicating with an office for the clerk of the market.

The first stone of the edifice was laid by Mr. W. H. Griffiths, May 28th, 1835, and was completed by that time in the next year, in a manner creditable to the architects, Messrs. FALLOWS and HART, of Birmingham.

THE SALOP INFIRMARY.

Among the various channels through which the stream of christian benevolence pursues its fertilizing course to the ocean of charity, those Institutions which have for their express design the cultivation of the mind and the alleviation of misfortunes which the casualties of life and the infirmities of human nature render mankind alike heir to, afford undoubtedly the safest application of real beneficence, being, in a measure, free from that imposition with which an indiscriminate charity has unfortunately so often to contend.

[Picture: The Infirmary]

From the most remote period the virtuous breast has cultivated the sublime desire of mitigating, as far as possible, the pain and wretchedness consequent upon disease and suffering,—hence we find that the munificence which characterised our forefathers centuries ago was not altogether confined to the erection of numerous places for Divine Worship, and for which our town was early distinguished, but that the pleasing pain of sympathy prompted them also to build and endow “Hospitals” for the reception of the sick and diseased, and “Almshouses” for the aged and infirm. The first record we possess of the existence of such charitable institutions in Shrewsbury is as early as the time of Henry the Second, beside an “Infirmary” founded by Earl Roger de Montgomery, within the precinct of the “Abbey,” as an asylum for diseased and superannuated monks, a fragment of which erection yet remains.

The rapacity, however, which disgraced the dissolution of Monasteries and whatever sustained the character of a “Religious House,” has, with a solitary exception, rendered these ancient Hospitals defunct;—nor was it until the commencement of the last century that the attention of the public was particularly directed to the foundation of Hospitals or Infirmaries, and which, from the number of hospitals erected in the course of that period, will, no doubt, be a memorable age in the annals of Medical Charities;—whilst it may be no mean compliment to our town and county to mention that its inhabitants early caught the rising spark of this generous flame, and had the distinguished honour of being the fifth in the kingdom to form the way in establishing a Provincial Asylum, on the basis of public benevolence,—THE SALOP INFIRMARY having commenced its salutary operations April 25th, 1747.

The building which preceded the present stately erection having been originally designed for a private residence, and although repeatedly enlarged and improved, being found to be insufficient for the accommodation of the additional number of patients consequent upon an increasing population, as well as inconvenient in many respects for the purpose it was designed to fulfil, it was resolved, at a meeting held Nov. 16, 1826, that a new Infirmary should be built on the site of the old one, at the estimated cost of about £16,000. As there was, however, much disinclination on the part of the subscribers present to take so large a sum from the funds of the institution, a considerable portion of which, having been bequeathed for its _support_, was therefore deemed sacred, a subscription was resolved upon and commenced immediately, when no less than £4,666 was subscribed by the noblemen and gentlemen then present,—a truly noble example of SALOPIAN GENEROSITY.

In the month of April, 1827, the patients were removed to a temporary infirmary, arranged in the Shrewsbury House of Industry; upon which workmen immediately commenced taking down the old building, and with such speed that on the 19th of July, the anniversary of our late revered monarch’s coronation, the ceremony of laying the first stone of the new structure was performed by the Right Hon. Lord Hill, assisted by the late Venerable Archdeacon Owen, some of the committee, with the contractors and surveyor.

The building thus auspiciously begun, proceeded rapidly to a completion so as to be opened on September 16, 1830. It is of free-stone, and of a plain Grecian character in design, 170 feet long by 80 feet high, having a Doric portico in the centre, the ends projecting with pilasters at each angle. At the top of the building, on a tablet, is the following inscription:—

SALOP INFIRMARY,
Established 1745,
Supported by Voluntary Subscriptions and Benefactions.
REBUILT 1830.

The interior comprises four stories; in the basement story the offices, to the number of twenty-two, are well arranged, having a convenient court for coal, &c. and water supplied to the several apartments. The principal floor is appropriated to the board room, dispensary, waiting room for the patients, and admitting rooms for the faculty, with private apartments for the house-surgeon and matron, and two wards for surgical cases.

The first floor is for male patients, and consists of seven wards, with a day-room, scullery, and bath rooms: the upper floor, for female patients, has the same accommodation, with the addition of a large and lofty operation room, enclosed by two pair of folding doors, having wards on each side; in the attics are four other wards, with nurses’ rooms, &c. The ascent to these apartments is by staircases situated at each end of the building, connected by spacious galleries, which afford the means of free ventilation.

In addition to the conveniences with which this elegant structure is replete, _the patent hot-water apparatus_, erected for the purpose of warming the Infirmary, must not be overlooked. The apparatus consists of a boiler, placed in the basement floor of the building, from which, by means of a pipe rising from its top, the water heated therein is conveyed to the highest level required, from whence it descends (in its passage to the boiler) to what are called the water stoves, situated in the several galleries. By this mode of heating the several apartments, opportunity is afforded not only of having a supply of hot water to each scullery, bath, and floor, but nightly attendance to the fire is rendered altogether unnecessary.

Whilst the interior accommodations of the Infirmary are highly conducive to the health and comfort of the inmates, the external arrangements are so constructed that such of the patients as are able may possess every benefit resulting from exercise and pure air, a spacious terrace having been constructed, and extending beyond the length of the eastern front, from which a most expansive and interesting view presents itself. In short, the whole of the arrangements of the new Salop Infirmary are admirably adapted for the purpose they are designed to fulfil, and whilst the workmanship, the materials, and general construction are of the best description, and reflect the highest credit on the several contractors, the building it is to be desired will, from its site and general formation, remain a lasting monument not only of Salopian liberality, but of general usefulness.

The building was designed by Messrs. Haycock, of this town, and the total expence of its erection was £18,735. 18s. 10d. of which sum £13,044. 1s. 3d. was raised by public subscriptions and collections, the balance being made up by the sale of a part of the capital stock of the institution. The Infirmary is liberally supported by subscriptions and benefactions. From its establishment to Midsummer, 1835, the sum of £164,220. 11s. 3d. has been received for its support; 44,058 in-patients admitted, and 72,328 outpatients recommended as fit objects for its benefits.

The average annual expence is about £2230, and the weekly number of patients in the house 82; and 2429 outpatients were relieved in 1835.

A treasurer is annually chosen, and the affairs of the house are managed by eight directors, assisted by a secretary. The directors are chosen from the trustees, who are subscribers of two guineas and upwards per annum, of whom four retire from their office half-yearly.

The domestic arrangements are under the care of a matron; and a surgeon with a salary is resident in the house, so that medical aid may be always at hand.

The medical officers of the establishment gratuitously devote their time and apply their skill in promoting the benevolent design of the institution.

The clergy of the town officiate by turns weekly as chaplains to the house. And two weekly visitors from the resident subscribers go round the wards, by which the patients have an opportunity of stating any dissatisfaction that may exist, and having it reported to the board of directors, who assemble every Saturday morning for the dispatch of the ordinary business of the charity and the admission and discharge of patients.

Every patient must be recommended by a subscriber, except in the case of casualties.

The anniversary meeting is held in the Hunt week; when a numerous assemblage of noblemen and gentlemen accompany the treasurer from the Infirmary to St. Chad’s church, where a sermon is preached and a collection made in aid of its funds, which always produces a sum truly honourable to the county.

Several tables of legacies and benefactions for the support of the Infirmary are fixed on the walls of the board room; and the cornice is adorned with a series of armorial bearings of all the noblemen and gentlemen who have filled the office of treasurer to the institution.

An auxiliary fund is attached to the hospital, for the purpose of assisting convalescent in-patients in returning to their homes.

EYE AND EAR DISPENSARY.

It would be superfluous to offer any observations on the importance of the two senses of Vision and Hearing, or on the prevalence of the various disorders to which the organs of those senses are liable; and whilst a general resource has been provided for the poor in the noble institution just noticed, for such diseases and accidents as they might be afflicted with, it has been thought expedient to form separate institutions for the relief of such disorders or defects in the human frame as are found more prevalent; since by directing medical and surgical skill to one particular object, efficient results may be the more easily obtained. To further this design, the Shropshire Eye and Ear Dispensary was established in 1818. During seventeen years of its progress 3583 patients have been admitted, and, as among these several have been restored to the blessing of sight, the institution is deserving of public support.

The dispensary is held in Castle-street, under the care of a surgeon. Annual subscribers of one guinea have, according to the original resolution, the right of recommending two patients within the year; but this is not in all cases strictly adhered to.

ST. GILES’S HOSPITAL,

it is considered, was originally established for the reception of persons afflicted with leprosy—a disease much more common among the ancients and in warmer climates than in Europe, into which it is said to have been introduced by the Crusaders in the time of Henry the First. King Henry the Second, if not the founder of this hospital, granted to it 30s. yearly (equal to £80 of modern currency) of the rent which he received from the sheriff of Shropshire for the county, towards the support of the infirm or diseased occupants, as well as a small toll upon all corn and flour exposed to sale in Shrewsbury, either on market days or otherwise. The original grant of money is still paid by the sheriff to the Earl of Tankerville, who, as “Master of the Hospital,” and holding certain lands for its maintenance, nominates four hospitallers, who have each a comfortable house and garden, adjoining St. Giles’s church-yard, with one shilling and sixpence weekly, a small allowance for coal, and clothing annually.

ST JOHN’S HOSPITAL,