Valuable Record

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 75, 30 March 1936, Page 12

Valuable Record

BOOK INSURED TOR £19,000 HONOURABLE ARTILLERY In a safo in a strong room in the City of London is a book which has been insured for £19,000 and is probably the most valuable volume in tho world outside the British Museum. It is known as ‘‘The Vellum Book” of tho Honourable Artillery Company of London, and contains the signatures of somo of the earlier members of the company, including that of Charles 11. when a boy. It is exhibited only on raro occasions, such as tho celebrations in August next year of the 400th anniversary of tho granting by Henry VIII. of the charter of incorporation on August 25, 1537. The book measures 16in. by llin. and is 4in. thick. It still has tho original black leather binding with brass tops, and contains the names of members in the days of Charles I. The entry for June 1, 1641, reads:— “The High and Mighty Prince Charles, Prince of Great Britane Duke of Cornwall eldist sonne to our Soveraigne Lord King Charles.” Prince Charles was then 11 years old. The first entry in the book is August 15, 1611. There is a second volume of a later date, insured for £IOOO. The original title of the company, granted by Henry VIII., is still often wrongly described. The correct wording appeared in a recently executed lease, as follows:—“The Master Rulers and Commonalty of the Fraternity or Guild of Artillery of Crossbows and Handguns.” Tho celebrations of tho 400th anniversary arc now under consideration. They will probably include a military display.