More Hidden Treasures (From Under The Stairs)
It might not be a good idea to admit that we do not venture into, or clean for that matter, the space under the stairs but the results from doing so - and putting aside any embarrassment we may feel - warrants it. Oliver Cross set about having a clear-out and bravely he went in, or under. Right at the back, wedged into the corner were two cardboard boxes each containing an army regulation book dating from the late 1800s. We were simply aghast! Our resident historian, Brian Lewis too. No one knew they were there.
For those who are not aware, an army regulation book is a collection of notes, compiled by a tailor, detailing the intricacies and rules pertaining to each regiment's garments: how they are cut, which buttons to use, how and where rank is shown etc.
All handwritten and drawn, with cloth samples attached it is an incredible and weighty document indeed, and amazing to think these sketches and notes were made by a Meyer & Mortimer descendant nearly 150 years ago. We will be delving further into our finds and sharing them with you in due course but for now, here are a few images we would like to share with you.
[January 2017]