Colchester Local Studies Library – a useful find

Large-scale map gives a clear picture of Victorian Grey Friars

The 1876 Ordnance Survey map of Colchester (detail below, top) is the most detailed depiction of the area that we have been able to find. Hitherto, we had only maps such as the 1896 version (below, centre) which, although quite detailed regarding property layout and boundaries, had nowhere near the precise depiction of the grounds as shown in 1876.

1876 O/S map

1896 map025

Have you knowledge of similar material?

We were guided to this particular resource by a member of the audience at one of our illustrated lectures. Can you help to build a more detailed picture of the history of Grey Friars than we have provided in the book or on this website? Any material, whether in written or visual form, and indeed any memories, anecdotes or historical references would be of interest.

The detail, below, shows the juxtaposition of Grey Friars with All Saints House to its right, beyond the stable yard.

Grey Friars buildings 1876