Sunday 22 December 2019

Forgotten workmen uncovered at The Redcliffe

Current builders unearth evidence of past craftsmen

Over the last few weeks we have been able to do initial works at The Redcliffe redecorating bedrooms and updating bathrooms, a revamp of the Reception, Bar, and Dining Room, together with reincorporating rooms at the top of building, which give a wonderful view to the North and the Moors.


It is not surprising that like archaeologists stripping layers of wallpaper has shown old patterns and colour schemes. And in several cases we have found places where in the 1890s, 1910s, and 1930s decorators have signed their names as a mark of what? Their handiwork? For others to find as a written time capsule? Well some hundred years or so later they are coming to light.

But not just signatures, several drawings have been found. And our favourite cartoon is reproduced here - as you can see it is a mustachioed man caught in profile. In this case he is on the edge of a fireplace looking to the wall, and today he might be in his 130th year?