Reference
X304/1
Title
Drawing of buildings in St. Paul's Square, taken from the roof of St. Paul's, by William Alfred Dawson (1809-1892), Endorsed: "Alfred Dawson on horseback in St. Paul's Square, his father's carriage driving along." Not only is every building rendered with architectural accuracy, but it appears that the people are faithfully reproduced carrying on their normal activities .Endorsed in another hand: before 1836.
Date free text
c. 1826 pre 1836
Production date
From: 1826 To: 1836
Admin/biog history
William Alfred Dawson was the son of John Thomas Dawson of Woodland House, Clapham, and brother of Rev John Frederick Dawson, (curate of St. Paul's in 1826).
John Thomas and his wife Mary had at least five children. John Frederick was baptised 31 July 1802, Edward Henry on the 4 July 1804, Charles Percival on 29 May 1807, Mary Caroline was baptised privately on the 13 Spet 1808. William was baptised on his second birthday on 17 April 1811 in St Paul's church, Bedford. John Thomas and William both went to Bedford School. Wm. Alfred Dawson was afterwards vicar of Flitwick; (see Ward Petley); 1843-50; and is buried there, though he did not die till 1892.
The drawing passed down to William Alfred Dawson's granddaughter, Margaret Dawson, who deposited it at the record office.
Format
ink on paper backed with linen
PU11/1962
Reference
Level of description
item