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North West View of Great Malvern Abbey in Worcester

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

MALVERN-MAGNA, ABBY, was in the Saxons times an Hermitage of Urso d’Abitot. In the 18th K. Willm. 1st it was made a Priory of Benedictines by the Hermit Aldwin who gave it large endowments to which K. Hen. 1st. added. Richard Ld. Clifford was a great Benefactor to it as were also K. Hen. IIId. K. Edn. 1st. Gilbert Earl of Glocester, Osborn & Richard de Pontibus, and in process of time from a Cell to ye Abby of Westminster, it became a free Abby. Thos. Savage Esqr. Is ye present Proprietor: It was valued at ye Dissolution £308. 1s. 5d Dugd’. £375. 0s. 6d. Speed.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

North West View of Clun Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To John Walcot Esq:

Owner of these Remains.

This Prospect is Gratefully Inscribed by,

Yr most Humble. Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck

CLUN CLONE or COLUN Castle so called from the River Colun or (in Welsh) Colunny; was built about K. Stephens time by Wm. Fitz Allan of Clun; so call’d for distinction sake: he became possess’d of this Lordship by right of his Wife Isabel de Say. This family was remarkable many ages for their great Estates & Dignity: at length the Earldom of Arundel came to them by Thomas Fitz Allan who was also Lord Treasurer he died 1416. About the Year 1579 the Lady Mary Fitz Allan was marry’d to Philip Howard son of Thomas Duke of Norfolk: by which means it came to that Noble Family. And from them to the Walcots who are ye present Possessors.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South West View of Branstill Castle in Hereford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

THIS CASTLE stands in a Solitary Place at the Foot of the west side of the Malvern Hills. (it’s a quadrangular Oblong & encompass’d by a Double Ditch of the same for as is here represented; and appears by several circumstances in the Remains themselves, as well as by other concurring Tokens to be a Place of very great Antiquity: tho’ we shall not pretend to determine that it is Roman. There is very lately discover’d in it, a Cavern which is not yet open’d, – Thos. Rede Esqr. is the present Proprietor thereof.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South East View of Brompton Brian Castle in Hereford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To The Rt. Honble EDWARD Earl of Oxford and Mortimer, and Baron Harley of Wigmore, Owner of these remains.

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

My Lord Yr: Lordsps: most Obedt. & Oblig’d Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

THIS CASTLE belonged for some Ages to a Family of Distinction call’d Brian de Brompton. In the days of K. Edn. III. Robert de Harley married the daughter & Heir of Sr. Brian de Brompton: by which means it came into that Noble Family.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

View of Hertlebury Castle in Worcester

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

HEORTLEBURI OR HERTLEBURY was given by Burrhed or Burdred King of the Mercians about the Year 850. to Alhun or Alwinus Bishop of Worcester & to the See for ever. In the Doomsday Book it is call’d Huertberie & said to contain 20. Hides; but in ye Doomsday Book of the Bishoprick it is rated at 12. The Castle was begun to be built by Walter de Cantilupe in ye Reign of Hen. III, & was finish’d by Gifford Bp. Of the same See, & Chancellor to ye sd. King, who obtaine’d his Licence so to do dated June 8th. 1268. A fair Gate-house was Erected by Bp. Carpenter in the latter part of ye Reign of Hen: VI. wch. was Demolish’d in ye late civil Wars and ye Castle itself in ruins; but by ye care & Munificence of several Bps. & more particularly ye present Worthy Lord thereof, it is now appears in the beautiful & elegant manner as is here represented.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South East View of Goodrich Castle in Hereford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the most Noble HENRY, Duke, Marquess & Earl of Kent, Earl of Harold Visct. Goodrich, Baron Hastings & Baron Lucas of Crudwell, Lord Lieutenant & Custos Rotulorum of the County of Bedford, one of the Lords of his MAJties: most Honble: Privy Council & K. of ye most Noble Order of ye Garter, owner of these Remains.

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

May it please Yr: Grace

Yr: Graces most Dutiful & most Obedient Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

South View of Wigmore Castle in Hereford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Right Honble. EDWARD Earl of Oxford and Mortimer & Baron Harley of Wigmore: Owner of the Castle.

My Lord Yr: Lordsps: most Obedt. & Oblig’d Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

This Castle was built by Wm. Fitz Osborn Earl of Hereford & Lord of Wight; but ye Ground belong’d at that time with ye Manour to Randulph or Ralph (de Mortuo Mari or) Mortimer one of the K. Wm. 1st. Captains and Knights who came from Normandy with him. Hugh de Mortimer his son founded & endow’d the Adjacent Priory about the year 1179. In the absence of Ralph the Grandson of High, this was plunder’d by the Welsh U most of the Building burnt; except the Church: but it was again restor’d by the Family. The Mortimer’s of Wigmore were of great Dignity and distinction: Edmund de Mortimer Earl of March married Philippa only daughter & Heir of Lionel Duke of Clarence 2nd Son of K. Ed III. after which he was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland where he died, his Body was brought over & buried in the Church of this Monastery. It came thus into ye Crown, by whom it was in process of time given to ye Noble Family of Harley, who are Barons of Wigmore, Earls of Oxford and Mortimer.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

East View of Hopton Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To John Smythe Esqr:

This Prospect is gratefully Inscribed by;

Yr: most Oblig’d Humble Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

THIS CASTLE is remarkable for the statute of Acton Burnel made here in ye XIth. of Ed. Ist. confirming & Explaining a former Act called the Stature Merchant. The Lords sat in this Castle; but the Commons are said to have sat in a Barn belonging to ye Monastery of Shrewsbury. It had its name from the Family of Burnel who possessed it from K.W. 1st till K. Hen. Vths. Time: but in Hen. VIths. Reign the Family of Lovel were Lords of Burnel. It was seized by K.H. VIIth & given to Jasper Earl of Bedford for Life. K. Hen. VIII. Gave it to Thomas Howard Earl of Surry afterwards created Duke of Norfolk. Sr. Richard Smythe Bart. is the Present Owner thereof.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South View of Acton Burnell Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To John Smythe Esqr:

This Prospect is gratefully Inscribed by;

Yr: most Oblig’d Humble Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

THIS CASTLE is remarkable for the statute of Acton Burnel made here in ye XIth. of Ed. Ist. confirming & Explaining a former Act called the Stature Merchant. The Lords sat in this Castle; but the Commons are said to have sat in a Barn belonging to ye Monastery of Shrewsbury. It had its name from the Family of Burnel who possessed it from K.W. 1st till K. Hen. Vths. Time: but in Hen. VIths. Reign the Family of Lovel were Lords of Burnel. It was seized by K.H. VIIth & given to Jasper Earl of Bedford for Life. K. Hen. VIII. Gave it to Thomas Howard Earl of Surry afterwards created Duke of Norfolk. Sr. Richard Smythe Bart. is the Present Owner thereof.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South West View of Stoke Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt: Honble: WILLIAM Lord CRAVEN Hamstead Marshall in the County of Berks

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

Yr: Lordships most Obedient Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

THIS CASTLE Stands upon the River Tearn: it antiently belong’d to ye Family of Verdun. Issue male failing in Theobald de Verdun it went by his Daughter Elizabeth and her Daughter Isabel by Marriage to Henry Lord Ferrers of Groby, who died in 17. Ed. III. It continu’d in this Noble Family for many successions; in that branch of it call’d Ferrers of Tamworth: but it is now in ye Noble Family of Craven. Wm. Lord Craven of Hampsted Marshall being the present Lord thereof.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

North West View of Shrewsbury Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

THIS CASTLE was built about the Year 1083 by Roger Montgomery Principal Captain, Friend and Kinsman of Wm. Duke of Normandy. After the Conquest he, (being then King,) gave this Town to Roger and made him Earl of Shrewsbury &c. who finding it a place of consequence, fortify’d the Town. The Castle is on Rock upon the neck of Land where the Severn runs on each side; for this River almost encompasses that Town. Wm. Fitz Allan Son of Hatbald defended this Castle for the Empress Maud against K. Stephen who took it by assault: but Hen. IId: her Son restored Allan to his Honours and Estates.

The present Owner is the Earl of Bradford.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

East View of Tong Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the most Noble EVELYN Duke & Earl, of Kingston Marquess of Dorchester, Viscount Newark & Baron Pierpoint, of Holme Peirpoint in the County of Nottingham.

Owner of the Castle.

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

May it please Yr: Grace

Yr: Graces most Dutiful & Obedient Serv ts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

TONG TUANG or TOANG was in the Saxon times in the Family of Morcar Earls of Northumberland; but soon after the Conquest it was given by ye Conqueror from them with their other Estates. In process of time we find it in ye Hands of ye Zouches of Ashby: afterwards the Badlesmeres had it but it passed for want of Male Issue by Marriage to the Veres Earls of Oxford: from them to the Vernons: who repair’d ye Castle. After them it came to the Harris’s: & by Marriage of a Daughter to Wm. Pierpoint second son of the first Earl of Kingston it came into that Noble Family & ye present Duke of S &

Kington is now Lord thereof.

N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

North West View of Haughmond Priory in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

HAGHMON or HAUGHMOND, was founded by Wm. Fits. Allan An. 1100. in the 1st of Hen. 1st. for Canons regular of St. Augustine & Dedicated to St. Mary & St. John the Evangelist. It had many endowments & large Revenues from time to time conferred upon it by several great Men; among whom were some of the Welsh Princes: all which were confirm’d to the Church of St. John ye Evangelist and the Canons there by K. Ed.3d. the 13th year of his reign. Its yearly Revenues were worth at the Dissolution.

{ £259 ; 13s : 7d. Dug

{ 294 : 12 : 9 Speed

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

West View of Lilleshall Priory in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Right Honourable JOHN LEVESON GOWER, Lord Gower , Baron of Stittenham in the County of York, and Baronet.

Proprietor of these Remains.

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

Yr: Lordships most Obedient Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

LILLESHULL or LILLESHAL PRIORY. Here was once a Church built as is suppos’d by Adelfleda a Queen of ye Mercians & dedicated to St. Alcmond a progenitor of ye Family whence King Edgars proceeded, which last nam’d endow’d it with ten Prebends & enlarged it. In K. Stephens Reign Richard Beaumeys (or Belmeis) Dean of it did by ye Kings consent & authority of ye Pope give it to Canons regular of St. Austin who came from St. Peters Dorchester & the Monastery was then founded about the year 1140 to ye honour of St. Mary ever Virgin. Among ye principal Benefactors we find Hillaria de Trussebut & Alan de Zouche, who was Patron of it: but by his Daughter it came to ye Family de Holland. The Laurel Leaves in the Hands of ye two Statues upon ye Gothick Columns at ye Gate, Shew it to have been long in ye Honble. Family of Leveson: which became at length Gower, who now possess it.

Annual Val } £229. 3s. 1d. Dugd’

} 327. 10. 0. Speed

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

East View of Halesowen Abbey in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

HALES or HALES OWEN, was founded by Peter de Rupibus Bishop of Winchester (who was also Lord Chief Justice) K. John having in the 16th year of his Reign given him for this purpose, the Manor and Advowson of the Church of Hales. It was a Monastery of the Premonstratensian Order, their estate was confirmed to them by K. Hen. III. It receiv’d after this many additional Benefactions from several Bishops and others – The present Owner is Sr. Thos. Littleton Bart.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731. An. Val. £280. 13s. 2d. Dugd. 337. 15. 6. Speed.

West View of Shrewsbury Abbey

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

ROGER De MONTGOMERY made by K. Willm. 1st for his Fidelity & Military Atchievements, E. of Shrewsbury, Arundel &c. founded this Mitred Abby for the Benedictines about the year 1083 to the Honour of St. Peter and St. Paul & dedicated the Church to St. Gregory or as others say to St. Giles. In his declining Age he quitted a Military Life and by consent of his Wife was shorn a Monk and spent the remainder of his Days in this Abby. He was here interr’d An. 1094. He endow’d it with Ample Possessions to which his son and Heir Hugh gave others with a heavy Curse on the Violaters. The Kings Hen. 1st & Stephen added to these & confirm’d their former Estates and Liberties. Among other great noble Benefactors we find Matilda daughter & Heiress to Walter de Clifford Watchclinus, Maminot, Willielmus Peverel & Rich. Fitz-Alan. King Hen. IIId. in his 11th year confirm’d all these their Revenues and Priviledges – The present owner is Edward Baldwin Esqr. An. Val. £132. 4s. 10d. Dug. £615. 4.3d. Speed. Ex. Lel:

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South West View of Buildwas Abbey in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To Acton Mosely Esqr. owner of these remains.

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

Yor: most Obligd. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck.

BILDEWAS or BULDEWAS, was founded & Endow’d by Roger de Clinton Bishop of Coventry& Litchfield A.D. 1153. to the honour of St. Mary & St. Ceaddefor St. Chad.). It had after this, several noble and generous Benefactors, among the Principal were Walter de Dunstanville & Robert Corbet; which several Benefactions & Estates were after confirm’d to them by K. Richard 1st An. Reg. I. Its value at the Suppression was £119. 19s. 3d. & An. Dug. – £129. 6s. 10d. Speed.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1731.

South West View of Wenlock Abbey in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To William Dilke Esqr: owner of this Castle;

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;

Yor: Obedt. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck.

THIS Castle was built by Wm. De Clinton in a quadrangle forme, ye 19 of Ednd. III: who having no issue gave it to his Nephew John de Clinton, wch. After many years continuance in that family pass’d to Humphrey E. of Staffordshire, who bestowed much cost in beautifying the same. In the 13. of Hen. VIII: this Castle with the Manors thereto belonging were granted to Sr. Wm. Compton Kt. who had one son Peter; but at his death ye K: thinking he left no issue, gave it to Ednd. Ld. Clinton, who in consideration of 70. Stert. assigned it to ye sd. Peter Compton; Afterwards sold to Sr. T. Egerton Kt. Keeper of ye great Seal; of whom Sr. Thos. Dilk Kt. purchas’d it 412 Eliz: in which Family it now remains.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

North West View of Ludlow Castle in Salop

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

THIS CASTLE stands on a rock in the North West Angle of the Town on the River Teme. It was built by Roger de Montgomery E. of Shrewsbury and by whose Son Robt de Belesme it was forfeited to K: Hen: 1st. Gervais de Paganel held it out for ye Empress Maud against K. Stephen who took it by assault. K. Hen II: gave it to Fulk Fitz Warine call’d also de Dinan, from this town, it being one of ye ancient brittish names of Ludlow: in K. John’s reign Philip de Albiny was Governour of it. It was afterward in ye Lacies of Ireland & for want of male issue went by marriage to ye Mortimers Earls of March & by ye like means from them into ye Crown again. It is yet a Noble Structure, within its walls is a Palace where ye Lords Presidents under ye Princes of Wales us’d to lodge when they held their Courts of Marches. It appertains to ye Principality of Wales and therefore His Royal Highness PRINCE FREDERICK is the present Lord thereof.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1732

East View of Maxtoke Castle in Warwickshire

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble: HENRY Earl of Clarendon & Rochester, Viscount Cornbury, Viscount Hyde of Kenelworth, Baron Hyde of Hindon & Baron of Wotton Basset:

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by,

My Lord, Ye Lordship’s most Obedt. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck.

THIS Castle was built by Galfridus de Clinton Chamberlain to K. Hen: his Nephew succeeding him, and having no Issue, sold it to K. Hen: III: who gave it to Simon Montford E: of Leicester; who marry’d Eleanor his sister; wch. Rebelling against the King was slain, and this Castle endured six months Siege, wch. In the end was surrendered, & by the King annexed as an inheritance to Edmd. his Son E: of Lancaster; 2 Eliz: gave it to Robert Dudley E: of Leicester; who bestowed much cost in repairing and adorning it; which is now in the possession of the E: of Clarendon & Rochester:

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

South East View of Tamworth Castle in Warwickshire

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. JAMES, Earl of Northampton, & Baron Compton;

Owner of this Castle –

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by,

My Lord, Your Lordship’s most Obedt. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck

TAMWORTH was a place held in great esteem by the Mercian Kings, on account of its pleasant situation, but being waisted by several invasions of ye Danes, it lay desolate till that renowned Lady of Mercians Ethelfleda, Daughter to K. Ufred in the year 014, restored it to its ancient splendour, raising a strong Tower upon an artificial Mount call’d the Dungeon, upon wch. Ye Castle was afterwards erected, wherein ye said Ethelfleda died XIX. Call: July. 918. Willm. the Conqr: at the latter end of his reign gave this Castle to Robt: Marmion, in wch: names & family it continued many years; afterwards it devolved to Baldnn: Mordaunt who was in great esteem with Ednd: the Black Prince, and in ye 1st: of Ric: 2d. exhibited a Claim to be ye Kings Champn: on ye Day of his Coronation and to do ye service of that office by ye tenure of this Castle. He was succeeded by Thos. Aston. Then Thosc. Ferrers 2d son to Wm: Ld: Ferrers of Gorby possess’d ye same and now belongs to James E. of Northampton, in right of the Lady Elizabeth Ferrers his present Countess.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

East View of Kenilworth Castle in Warwick

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. HENRY Earl of Clarendon & Rochester, Viscount Cornbury. Viscount Hyde of Kenelworth, Baron Hyde of Hindon & Baron of Wotton Basset:

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by,

My Lord, Ye Lordship’s most Obedt. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck

THIS Castle was built by Galfridus de Clinton Chamberlain to K. Hen: his Nephew succeeding him, and having no Issue, sold it to K. Hen: III: who gave it to Simon Montford E: of Leicester; who marry’d Eleanor his sister; wch. Rebelling against the King was slain, and this Castle endured six months Siege, wch. In the end was surrendered, & by the King annexed as an inheritance to Edmd. his Son E: of Lancaster; 2 Eliz: gave it to Robert Dudley E: of Leicester; who bestowed much cost in repairing and adorning it; which is now in the possession of the E: of Clarendon & Rochester:

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

North East View of Warwick Castle in Warwick

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

George Duke of Clarence was made Governor of this Castle, at whose death it being Seized into the Kings hand, continued in the Crown till the 17. of Hen. VII. when Ednd: Belknap Esqr. of the Body to the King, was made Constable. In the first of Ednd: VI. John Dudley was advanced to be Earl of Warwick; but upon his attainer in the I. of 2. Mary, this Castle escheated to the Crown; yet through ye especial favour of 2. Eliz; Ambrose his son made Earl & Governor thereof; he dying without issue, it came again to the Crown and so continued till the 2nd year of K. James I; in which time it became very ruinous; but the K. bestowed it in fee upon Sr: Faulk Grevill Kt. who expended upwards of 20000 £ in repairs, which besides it’s pleasant situation on the Bank of the River Avon, commanding a delightfull prospect on every side, was accounted ye most princely seat in that part of the Kingdom. This Castle belongs to ye Ld. Brook.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

South East View of Warwick Castle in Warwick

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. FRANCIS Lord Brooke

Baron Brooke of Beauchamps Court in the County of Warwick

Proprietor of this Castle –

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by – his Lordship’s most Obedt. Serv ts .

Saml. & Nath l. Buck.

THE want of fortify’d places gave great occasion to the Norman Conqueror after his victory at Hastings to raise many strong Castles whereof this was none of the meanest: four houses of the Monks at Coventry being wasted for its enlargement: which when finished was committed to the custody of Hen. E Newbury, Earl of Warwick. Towards the end of K. Stephen’s reign upon the Arrival of Hen: Duke of Normandy, Gundred the Countess by force expell’d the Kings Soldiers and resign’d this Castle to the Duke, who shortly after was made King of England by the Beauchamp Earl of Warwick & Governor of this Castle, dying in the 9th of Ed. II: was succeeded by Thos. his Son, who about the 10th of Ed: III rebuilt the outer wall of the castle and also erected divers towers; but the great Tower at the North-East corner call’d Guy’s Tower was built by Thos. Earl of Warwick. Ye 17 of Richrd. II. continued in plate No. 14.

Saml. & Nath l. Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

North West View of Maxtoke Priory in Warwickshire

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. EDWARD Lord LEIGH of Stonely and Barronet;

Owner of these Remains.

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by Your Lordships, Obedt. Servts. S & N Buck.

THIS Priory of Black Canons was founded to the Honour of the holy Trinity, the Blessed Virgin, St. Michael and all Saints, by Wm. Clinton Earl of Huntingdon, Anno. 1337. He appointed several ordinances relating to their Habit, The Election of a Prior, The order of the house, the quality and number of Canons, with many other injunctions; all which were confirm’d by Roger Bp’ of Coventry & Lichfield, King Ednd. III, granted Licences to these Canons to exchange their Mannor at Shustoke for certain Lands in Maxstoke. Valued at the dissolution £87. 12s. 3½ d. Dug. £120. 11s. 8d. Speeds.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

East View of Kenilworth Priory in Warwickshire

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. HENRY Earl of Clarendon & Rochester, Viscount Cornbury, Viscount Hyde of Kenelworth, Baron Hyde of Hindon & Baron of Wotton Basset –

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by

My Lord: Ye Lordship’s most Obedt. & Obligd. Serv ts.

Saml. & Nath l. Buck

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculp. 1729

East View of Nuneaton Nunnery in Warwick

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. THOMAS Lord Paget; Son and Heir Apparent to the Right Honble. Henry Earl of Uxbridge –

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by his Obliged humble Servants

Sam l. & Nath l. Buck.

THIS House was founded and endow’d by Robt. E. of Leicester, son of Robt. de Mellento, in the Reign of K. Hen: II. For Benedictine Nuns of the Order of Fontevrault, and dedicated to the Honour of the Blessed Virgin; whose gifts were confirm’d by Robt. his son and by K.H.II. The Prioress and Convent of Fontevrault granted to this House privilege to receive and retain to their own proper use, all such gifts as should be made to them, without any exaction, wch. was confirm’d by Pope Alexander III.

An. Val: }259. 14. 5. Dug.

}290. 15. ½. Speed.

S. B. delin. N.B. Sculp. 1727

South View of Coombe Abbey in Warwick

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. WILLIAM Lord CRAVEN, Baron of Hamstead Marshall in the County of Berks –

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by his Obliged humble Servants

Sam l. & Nath l. Buck.

Richard de Camvill being a religious Man much affecting the Cistertian Monks, founded the first Abby of that Order 1150, in a solitary and low place, from whence it was called Combe which in the Saxon Tongue signifies a Valley surrounded with Hills or trees; this Abby was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin; to n Ric? De Camvill gave many lands; wch Robt. de Mowbray confirmed to ye Monks thereof.

At the Dissolution by King Henry the VIII it was valued at £311 15s 1d.

S. B. delin. N.B. Sculp. 1727

West View of Codenor Castle in Derby

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To L.E.G.H. MASTER Esqr. owner of these Remains.

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by his Obliged humble Servants

Saml. & Nath l. Buck.

This Castle in former times called Coutenour; belonged to ye Barons Grey, thereupon called Lords Grey of Codenor, from wch Family it came to ye Zouches by ye Marriage of Sr. Joes. De le Zouch, second son of Wm. L d. de le Zouch of Harringworth n th. Elz. Ye only Heir of Hen: Grey, ye last Lord of Codenor & at pres t. belongs to Legh. Master Esqr. S. B. delin. N.B. Sculp. 1727

North West View of Castleton Castle and the Devil’s Arse in the Peak

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the most Noble WILLIAM Duke of Devonshire, Marqs. of Hartington, Earl of Devonshire, Baron Cavendish of Hardwick Lord President of his Majesty’s most Honble. Privy Council, Lord Lieu t. & Custos Rotulorum of the County of Derby; and K of the most Noble Order of the Garter:

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by

May it please Y r. Grace. Y r. Graces most Dutyfull & Obed t. Serv ts.

Sam l. & Nath l. Buck.

THIS Castle in Derbyshire is a very antient Building and by its situation impregnable; being built on a Steep Rock, to which there is but one way of going up, and that is so full of windings that it is near two miles to the top. It formerly belonged to the Peverells; K. Edn d. 3 d. gave it with the Honour & Manour of Castleton to his son John Duke of Lancaster.

S. B. delin. N.B. Sculp. 1727

West View of Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Hon ble. EDWARD Earl of Oxford, and Mortimer & Baron Harley of Wigmore, Owner of this Castle:

This Prospect is humbly Inherited by,

Your Lordship’s most Obedt. & Obligd. Serv ts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck

The noble Gallery joining to this Castle is 72 Yards in length and 7 Yards 1 Inches in breadth within the Ceiling.

S. B. delin. N.B. Sculp. 1727

The North East Prospect of Bolsover Castle in Derby

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

To the Rt. Honble. EDWARD Earl of Oxford and Mortimer & Baron Harley of Wigmore: Owner of this Estate:

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by,

My Lord: Ye Lordship’s most Obedt. & Obligd. Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck

This Castle stands upon a lofty Hill in Scarsdale near Chesterfield, and antiently belonged to the Hastings Lord of Abergavenny, by exchange with K. Hen 3 d. and from them it came to the Cavandishes & Hollis; Dukes of Newcastle; and by Female right to the present Owner, the Earl of Oxford.

S. B. delin. N.B. Sculp. 1727

South West View of Beauchief Abbey in Derby

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

THIS Monastery of Proemonstratentions was founded by Robert Fitz Ranulph Lord of Alfreton, Norton, & Marnham; as an expiation of the Murder of Thos. Becket A.Bp. of Canterbury, and to him dedicated by the Name of St Thomas the Martyr. Thomas de Cadurcis or Chanorth, descended from the sd. Robert, confirmed all the donations of his Ancestors and added other Land of his own Gift: All these Lands were confirmed by K. Ednd. 2d. Anno. Reg.9. The present owner is – Pegg Esq. Ann. Val. Dug 1 2 5

S. Buck Delin. N Buck Sculpt. 1727. Sp. 157

East View of Dale Abbey, near Derby

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

Dale Abby, Depedale or Stanley Park; founded by Radulphus Son of Germundus, on Occasion of an admonishment in a Dream to a Baker in Derby, who thereon left all he had and became a Hermitt in this Desert. Serlo de Grendon Son in law to the said Radulphus, built a Sumptuous Church and Monastery here; and placed in it Canons from the Cell att Calke; and procured them several Privileges from Rome; but being remiss in Divine Offices for fear of being removed, they resigned; and returned from whence they came. Then they had Six Canons from Tupholm who were recalled on the same Account. After this William Grendon, Son of Serlo de Grendon, settled the Town & Park of Stanley, Depedale & Lands in Okebrook upon this House; & nine Canons from Nen: house in Lincolnshire And the Heirs of the said William confirmed the Gifts of their Ancestors to the Canons of Stanley Park; all which with other Possessions were confirmed to them by King Henry ye Third. An: Reg: 19. The Present Owners are the Earls of Stamford & Chesterfield.

Annual Valu. Dug. 1+ + = 12

S. B. Delin. N. B. Sculp. 1727.

Samuel and Nathaniel Buck’s Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in the Midlands 1726-1739

Image: South East View of Goodrich Castle in the County of Hereford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Summary

In 1726, two brothers, Samuel and Nathaniel Buck began their task of creating a visual record of ancient monuments in England and Wales. “Buck’s Views” as they were called became a bank of over 400 engravings of local buildings across the two countries. They were printed and sold individually and collected into volumes for book purchasers. The artistic quality of the prints may not have been high, but they are important sources for local historians. This selection from the monumental enterprise concentrates on the counties of Derbyshire, Warwickshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire.

Buck’s Views in Context

Topography refers to the study, description or portrayal of a local area. Before the advent of photography, topographical prints were the only way in which visual representations of places were made readily accessible. Artists could engrave or etch images on metal plates or, more usually pass their drawings to a specialist engraver. Multiple copies could be printed for sale or reproduced in books.

The first artist to devote himself to British topography was Wenceslas Hollar. Born in Prague in 1607 he came to England and created careful, perceptive and accurate etchings of London on copper. After Hollar few print makers produced work which combined his artistic gifts and reliability as a recorder. One was Michael Burghers who was born in Holland and engraved various scenes including views in the Midlands for Dr Robert Plot’s, Natural History of Staffordshire, one of the first and most important county histories in Britain. These print makers and others reflected an interest in the portrayal of buildings within a landscape. Their representations are also reflected in the growing numbers of maps which appeared in the 18th century, which often combined a graphical representation of a county with bird’s eye views of important local buildings.

Printmaking was not an activity that attracted many British artists. Until the Copyright Act of 1735, the law failed to protect engravers and printmakers from having their images copied. Nevertheless, in 1726, before the passing of the act, Samuel Buck (1696-1779) and his younger brother Nathaniel, began a massive undertaking to illustrate “the venerable remains of above four hundred Castles, Monasteries, Palaces, etc., in England and Wales.” Over the next 30 years they produced 420 of these views. They are not major works of art and resemble stage sets in their approach to perspective and stiffness of execution, but they are important records of local areas. The writer John Lewis Roger in his History of the Old Water Colour Society (1891) said of their work:

….there is little or no imitation of actual texture. Ruined walls have none of the look of crumbling stone. Edged with fringes of vegetation, neatly trimmed, like whiskers, they are themselves perfectly smooth, as if cut in wood or card, showing marvellous coherence in broken arches and masonry.

As they became more experienced, their plates included figures and incidents to add human interest. They also produced views of British towns, some of which, such as the South West Prospect of Birmingham are justly famous, but the prints in this exhibition belong to the early period of their work.

Despite their shortcomings as works of art, Samuel and Nathaniel Buck produced the most comprehensive engravings of local scenes in the mid 18th century. Sometimes there are long explanatory captions which help to illuminate the scenes. Their interests were not in economic activity, though some of their prints provide glimpses of more than ancient monuments. The views of Beauchief Abbey and the North-East Prospect of Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire reveal enclosed fields and the North-East View of Shrewsbury Castle shows buildings grouped beneath the castle, providing a hint of commercial activity along the banks of the River Severn. Buck’s Views are major sources for local history.

South West View of Alton Castle in Stafford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.
Text: Taken from the original source

ALVETON ELVETON now ALTON is a Castle more Antient than the Norman Conquest. In the 22d of Hen. II. Bertram de Verdun was Lord of it whole residence it was and that of the Family till the III. of Ed. IId. During the Minority of Thos. de Verdun Wm. Fitz Richard had the care of his Estates: in his Accounts we find ten pounds for half a years maintenance of Soldiers and servants in this Castle VII R.I. the mannor had not less than 10 (some say 14) Villages belonging to it. Male Issue failing it came by Marriage to the Furnivals who held it two successions; when by the same means it came to Thos. Nevil brother to the Earl of Westmorland: but he also leaving only a Daughter, it passed by her to the Famous Sr. Ins. Talbot (with her other Estates) who by right of his Wife was Lord of this Castle and Lord Furnival, but afterwards created Earl of Shrewsbury in which Family it Still remains.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

South West View of Dudley Priory in Stafford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.
Text: Taken from the original source

To the Right Honourable WILLIAM Lord Dudley & Ward. Baron of Birmingham in ye County of Warwick &c.
Owner of these Remains.

This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by;
Yr: Lordships Obedient Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

THIS PRIORY of the Cluniack order Subordinate to the Abby of Wenlock was founded in the Reign of K. Hen. IInd by Gervaise de Paganel or Pagnel to the Honour of St. James according to the intention of Ralph his Father: Gervaise dying without Issue his sister Married John de Somery, by wch means that Family became Patrons of it. Roger Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield granted a remission of 40 days Pennance to those who being truly contrite & confest should say the Lords Prayer & Salutation of the Blessed Virgin for the Soul of Roger de Somery (grandson of John) & for all the faithfull buried here. Issue male failing again it came by marriage to John de Sutton & on ye like failure it descended with ye Castle to the Lds. Dudley &c. there have been several fine Monuments of the Families of Somery & Sutton found here.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

North East View of Croxton Abbey in Stafford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.

Text: Taken from the original source

CROXTON, (CROXDEN, CROKESDEN or CHROCHESDEN) was founded by Bertram de Verdun for Cistercian Monks. He first built them a Monastery at Chotes (or Coats) An 1176: but about three years after: he remov’d them to Brokesden endowing it with several Estates in Croxden, Stanfort, Castreton &c. beside the Church of Alveton (or Alton) where the Residence of the Family was for many Ages) And a Salt Work at Middlewich. The Founder dy’d in the Holy Land: but there were two Theobalds de Verdun and many other of his Descendants buried here.
The present owner is the Earl of Macclesfield. An Val. { 90. 3. 11 Dug
{103. 6. 5 Speed.
S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.

East View of Tutbury Castle in Stafford

Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library.
Text: Taken from the original source

To the most Noble WILLIAM Duke & Earl of Devonshire, Marquess of Hartington, Baron Cavendish of Hardwick, Lord Lieutenant & Custos Rotulorum of the County of Derby.

This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;
May it please Yr: Grace
Yr: Graces most Dutiful & most Obedient Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck.

TUTBURY or STUKESBURY CASTLE was given by K. Wm. 1st. to Henry Earl of Ferrarys who built a Priory contiguous to it in wch he was buried; but it pass’d by a forfeiture to the Crown from this family, who were then Earls of Derby, to Edmund 2d son of K. Hen. IIId. And by a Daughter of his Family, to John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster 3. son of K. Edw. IIId who repair’d the Castle and new built ye Gate thereof. From it, there is a very extensive & beautiful Prospect of a fine Country, it’s Situation being on a rocky Hill in wch. is an Alabaster Quarry. It is at present in ye Noble Family of Cavendish; the Duke of Devonshire being the present Lord thereof.

1. The Priory. 2. Duns Cross Elm. 3. Uttoxeter. 4. Dubridge 5. Sydbury. 6. Scrapton.

S & N Buck Delin. et. Sculpt. 1731.