anxa 
 88-B 
 16316 
 
 i 
 
 HELM, 
 
 OF HIS GRACE ^ M , 
 
 ■ iuS -&i,IB»It» IB CQ)IBi(© tU SI p 
 
 accurate Account of ) ] 
 
 ACCORDING TO THE PRESENT ARRANGEMENT. 
 
 The &n& a nti M*a>#h fi ';: 
 
 \* ; \ ; EMBELLl SHBD WITH A. ' - . ' 
 
 •BEAUTIFUL STEEL ENGRAVING OF" THE PALACE, 
 
 '! ; To which is added 
 
 AN ACCOUNT OF THE BOROUGH OF WOODSTOCK, 
 
 SIXTH EDITION. 
 
 :.-:-vi<-L 
 
 Sell 
 
 PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY WILLIAM ECCLES 
 
 Price One Shilling and Six-pence 
 
 " O 1 "V El B * C. 
 
From the Library oi 
 Frank Simpson 
 
A NEW GUIDE 
 
 TO 
 
 BLENHEIM PALACE, 
 
 THE SEAT OF HIS GRACE 
 Containing an accurate Account of 
 
 ®})e ^auxtfagg, ®apegtrg, anU .dfurttttur*, 
 
 ACCORDING TO THE PRESENT ARRANGEMENT, 
 
 AND A DESCRIPTION OF 
 
 The (wardens and Park, 
 
 EMBELLISHED WITH A 
 
 BEAUTIFUL STEEL ENGRAVING OF THE PALACE, 
 
 $e. 
 
 To which is added 
 AN ACCOUNT OF THE BOROUGH OF WOODSTOCK. 
 
 SIXTH EDITION. 
 
 PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY WILLIAM ECCLES. 
 Price One Shilling and Six-pence. 
 
 1855. 
 
THI 
 
TO HIS GRACE 
 
 THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH, 
 
 THIS COMPENDIOUS 
 
 (Euttie to 9Btat$*hn palace, 
 is, 
 
 BY KIND PERMISSION, 
 VERY RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, 
 BY HIS GRACE'S 
 MOST OBEDIENT AND HUMBLE SERVANT, 
 
 WILLIAM ECCLES. 
 
GENERAL INFORMATION. 
 
 The Palace of Blenheim may be inspected 
 every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 
 Eleven till One o'Clock. — The rest of the day may 
 be agreeably and profitably filled up, by viewing 
 the Park and Gardens, which are open to the 
 Public every week day. 
 
 \* The Private Gardens can only be viewed 
 by parties furnished with a Ticket of Admission 
 from His Grace. 
 
NEW DESCRIPTION 
 
 OF 
 
 BLENHEIM. 
 
 " Having seen every thing that was curious in Oxford, we 
 proceeded to BLENHEIM, the Seat of His Grace the Duke of 
 Marlborough. This place is without comparison superior to any 
 thing I ever beheld. The beauties of Windsor Park faded 
 before it, and every other place I had visited was effaced from my 
 recollection, on viewing its magnificence." From the Travels of 
 Mirza Abu Taleb Khan, commonly known in this Country by the 
 title of the " Persian Prince," 1791—1803. 
 
 The magnificent and widely celebrated structure, 
 or the Palace, of Blenheim, is situated in the 
 County, about eight miles from the famous Uni- 
 versity, of Oxford ; and within half a mile of the 
 Borough of New Woodstock. 
 
 To become acquainted with the various at- 
 tractions of Blenheim and its Gardens, its Park 
 and other accompaniments, in any considerable 
 degree, will require, as it will reward, repeated 
 visits, and a minute and close inspection. 
 
 B 
 
6 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 The general appearance of the Palace is grand 
 and imposing. Within, it consists of a great 
 number of handsome and spacious apartments, 
 rich in decorations and elegantly furnished, con- 
 taining inestimable treasures of Art and Litera- 
 ture. It abounds in Paintings, of singular excel- 
 lence, by first-rate masters of nearly all the most 
 celebrated schools of Antiquity ; and several 
 works of superior merit, the fruit of more modern 
 genius and talent, are to be found within its walls. 
 The surrounding scenery is of varied and charm- 
 ing character, consisting of wood and water, hill 
 and vale, and in fact combining in itself, nearly 
 every essential element of a magnificent and pleas- 
 ing landscape. To direct attention to the princi- 
 pal objects of interest is all this Guide pretends 
 to ; the Visitor of taste will discover much that is 
 worthy of being noticed and remembered, which 
 must necessarily be omitted in a work of this 
 nature, and of which, indeed, no mere verbal 
 description could convey a perfectly correct or 
 adequate idea. 
 
 Large sums have been from time to time ex- 
 pended, in repairing the Palace, and improving 
 the grounds adjoining, by the several noble pro- 
 prietors of Blenheim. His Grace, the present 
 Duke has manifested his regard for this seat of 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 7 
 
 his ancestors, not merely in the restoration of 
 what the ravages of time had injured, but in 
 many judicious alterations and valuable additions, 
 at an expenditure of £80,000, The Palace in- 
 deed is more indebted to the Marlborough family, 
 than is^ generally supposed. According to the 
 notion popularly entertained, it was erected at the 
 charge of the British nation ; and with the con- 
 currence of Parliament, was bestowed, together 
 with the Manor of Woodstock, upon John, Duke 
 of Marlborough by his royal mistress, QueenAnne, 
 in acknowledgment of the eminent services of that 
 illustrious commander, especially in the brilliant 
 and successful battle fought on the banks of the 
 Danube,near the Village of Blenheim, from which 
 the palace derives its name. This, however, de- 
 mands some qualification. The fact is, that Queen 
 Anne, after supplying the funds for the building 
 up to a certain point, deserted the undertaking, 
 and the noble structure was completed by the 
 Marlborough family at an expence of £150,000. 
 
 The Battle of Blenheim having been fought on 
 the second day of August, 1704, it was enacted, 
 " That on the same day of every year for ever, 
 the inheritor of His Grace's honours and titles 
 should render at Windsor to Her Majesty, her 
 heirs and successors, one standard oi; colours, with 
 
8 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 three fleur-de-lis painted thereon, as an acquittance 
 for all manner of rents, suits and services due to 
 the crown." A careful compliance with the terms 
 of this enactment, has, of course, not been neg- 
 lected. The requisite standard has been duly 
 presented every returning year, and a large col- 
 lection of them is now to be seen in Windsor 
 Castle. 
 
 The visitor, who surveys the Palace of Blen- 
 heim, and forms his judgment from the impression 
 he receives on contemplating the structure itself, 
 unbiassed by the fastidious or affected criticism of 
 others, can hardly fail to admire the magnificent 
 pile of building before him ; and each succeeding 
 view will assuredly heighten his admiration. In 
 the earlier periods of its existence, however, it 
 was far from uniting the suffrages of every pre- 
 tender to architectural taste and skill in its favour c 
 Various objections, more or less important, wfere 
 not unfrequently urged against it, and particularly 
 it was censured as being heavy. In a work of such 
 extent and magnitude, it would, indeed, be mar- 
 vellous if nothing were introduced, which might 
 not with advantage have been omitted, and that 
 there should be no incongruity or want of harmony 
 in any of its details. The ablest architect cannot 
 anticipate with perfect accuracy, what the ultimate 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 9 
 
 and finished effect will be from the most carefully 
 executed plan ; and, probably, when too late to 
 be introduced,, could suggest some minor advan- 
 tageous change. 
 
 The early structures upon Blenheim, may, how- 
 ever, be traced in a great measure to the reputa- 
 tion of its architect. This was Sir John Van- 
 burgh, against some of whose other works a 
 charge of heaviness, in some instances, perhaps, 
 with reason, was not uncommonly made ; and, 
 whose real or supposed failing in this respect, 
 gave occasion to the well-known caustic couplet,, 
 
 " Lie heavy on him, earth ; for he 
 Laid many a heavy load on thee." 
 
 It is to be regretted that censure should be so 
 generally indiscriminating, and that works of 
 merit should ever be depreciated merely because 
 they have proceeded from the hand, whose efforts 
 have not always been successful. Sterling worth, 
 however, will at length emerge from the clouds 
 in which an ill-founded and illiberal prejudice 
 may for a time involve it ; and Blenheim has long 
 survived the unfavourable criticisms of which it 
 was for a period the object. Instead of being- 
 vituperated as heavy, this noble structure is now, 
 generally and deservedly, admired for its happy 
 combination, with some few slight exceptions, of 
 
10 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 beauty and solidity. The style of the building, 
 indeed, is in unison with its destination. It was 
 intended to be a monument of immortal achieve- 
 ments, and it certainly appears well calculated for 
 permanency. 
 
 Strangers visiting Blenheim usually approach 
 through the Borough of New Woodstock, and 
 are admitted into the Park through a spacious 
 Gateway or Triumphal Arch, on each side of 
 which is a smaller Gate, by which persons on foot 
 or horseback are allowed to enter. 
 
 THE TRIUMPHAL ARCH 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 II 
 
 Was built by Sarah Duchess of Marlborough, the 
 
 year after the decease of the celebrated Hero, and 
 
 is a handsome structure of the Corinthian Order 
 
 of Architecture, in the interior of which are small 
 
 apartments for the accommodation of the Porter, 
 
 who is constantly in attendance here. On the side 
 
 next to Woodstock is the following inscription in 
 Latin : — 
 
 PORTA HAEC EXTRVCTA EST ANNO POST OB1TVM 
 
 ILLVSTRISSIMI 
 JOHANNIS DVCIS DE MARLBOROVGH JVSSV ATQVE 
 AVSPICIIS 
 
 SARAE CONJVGIS DILECTISSIMAE CVI TESTAMENTO 
 
 COMMENDAVIT OPERA 
 QVIBVS VLTIMAM IPSE MANVM NON IMPOSVERAT. 
 QVANTA FVERINT DVCIS IN REMPVBLICAM MERITA 
 INGRESSO TIBI 
 PLVRIBVS DICET COLVMNA QVAM OPTIMAE 
 CONJVGIS PIETAS PONI VOLVIT 
 VT PERENNE ESSET IPS1VS GLORIAE SVAEQVE 
 DILECTIONIS MONVMENTVM. 
 A. D. MDCCXXIII. 
 
 On the opposite side is the following translation : 
 
 THIS GATE WAS BVILT THE YEAR AFTER THE DEATH 
 
 OF THE MOST ILLVSTRIOVS 
 JOHN DVKE OF MARLBOROVGH BY ORDER OF SARAH 
 HIS MOST BELOVED WIFE 
 TO WHOM HE LEFT THE SOLE DIRECTION OF THE 
 MANY THINGS 
 THAT REMAINED VNFINISHED OF THIS FABRIC. 
 
12 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 THE SERVICES OF THIS GREAT MAN TO HIS 
 COVNTRY THE PILLAR 
 WILL TELL YOV WHICH THE DVCHESS HAS ERECTED 
 FOR A LASTING 
 MONVMENT OF HIS GLORY AND HER AFFECTION 
 TO HIM. 
 MDCCXXIII. 
 
 Having passed through the Triumphal Gate and 
 advanced a few paces into the Park, a scene of 
 surpassing beauty bursts upon the sight. It is of 
 considerable extent, and combines objects of 
 varied character. In front, towards the south, 
 rises the Palace, exhibiting its turrets, minarets 
 and loftier portions, to much advantage, over the 
 summits of intervening beeches, which have now 
 attained a growth of such luxuriance and spread 
 of branches, as in a great measure to exclude the 
 lower parts of the Castle. At the feet of the spec- 
 tator, in a deep winding valley, lies outspread a 
 fine sheet of water, having its intervening margin 
 partially skirted with lofty trees ; and, when its 
 surface is undisturbed, pleasingly reflecting the 
 various objects that adorn its opposite banks. 
 Various species of water-fowl make it their resort ; 
 and, together with the graceful swans, give it 
 animation and increased effect. In front of the 
 Palace the banks of the Lake gradually approach, 
 and a noble bridge is seen spanning the intervening 
 
BLENHEIM, 
 
 18 
 
 space, and forming a pleasing feature in the pros- 
 pect, which is terminated in that direction by 
 forest trees, of varied outline crowning the summit 
 of the opposite hilL More to the right hand, in 
 a fine elevated position, stands a lofty Column, 
 surmounted by the figure of the illustrious Duke, 
 apparently surveying the handsome recompence 
 of his glorious actions, in the surrounding scene ; 
 and constituting a conspicuous object of observa- 
 tion for many miles around. Towards the east, 
 the view is confined within narrow limits. The 
 tower of Woodstock Chapel, the residence of its 
 Minister, and the house of M. J. Higgins, Esq., 
 are however, seen to advantage ; and the two last 
 mentioned, seldom fail to attract notice, on ac- 
 count of the pleasantness of their situation, and of 
 the prospect they command. 
 
 From the Triumphal Arch (passing on the left 
 hand the Home Lodge, and contiguous to which, 
 till lately, stood the China Gallery, with its 
 choice and valuable collection, now beautifully 
 arranged in an apartment in the interior of the 
 Palace,) an excellent gravel road conducts us 
 towards the Palace in a straight direction, till it 
 reaches a noble avenue extending from Hensington 
 Gate to the Eastern Gate of the Palace. This 
 
 Avenue is called the Mall ; and, being shaded 
 
 c 
 
14 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 by lofty spreading elms which extend in double 
 rows the whole of its length, forms a fine prome- 
 nade, and a noble vista, through which the passing 
 traveller may obtain a partial view of Blenheim, 
 and a glimpse into its Park, from the "Woodstock 
 and Oxford road. The road up to this point is 
 not devoid of interest. Blenheim comes more 
 fully into view, and excites a desire of a still more 
 near and perfect acquaintance. The objects which 
 presented themselves at first entering the Park, 
 with so happy and powerful an effect, lose none 
 of their attractions by the continual change of 
 their relative positions. 
 
 From its junction with the Avenue the road 
 turns to the right and presently reaches the 
 
 EASTERN GATEWAY 
 
 of Blenheim. This is occupied by a pair of hand- 
 some and substantial Iron Gates, (by Messrs. 
 Bramah, Prestage & Ball, of Piccadilly, Lon-) 
 don,) erected by His Grace the present Duke, at 
 an expense of £1000. The workmanship is equally 
 finished on both its faces, and is extremely light 
 and elegant, without any sacrifice of strength. 
 The weight of metal employed in their construc- 
 tion is seventeen tons ; and each of the folding 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 15 
 
 portions weigh no less than four tons. They turn 
 upon pivots on the principle of the Ball and 
 Socket, and are twenty-two feet and a half high. 
 Towards the top of that on the left hand is the 
 Churchill Crest, a Lion and Flag ; on that to the 
 right is the Griffin's Head, the Spencer Crest: In 
 the centre of each are the arms of the Marlbo- 
 rough Family, and towards the bottom they are 
 embellished with the letters M. M. (standing for 
 Marlborough & Mindelheim) formed with much 
 ease and elegance. Over all, in the highest com- 
 partment are the representations of various flags 
 and military emblems. The execution is perfect 
 in every part, and the Gates altogether, are, per- 
 haps, unrivalled. 
 
 Passing through the Eastern Gate-way, over 
 which is a reservoir, capable of containing five 
 hundred hogsheads of water, conveyed hither by 
 means of suitable forcing engines from a consider- 
 able distance, we enter an arcaded quadrangle, on 
 the right, consisting of various offices. The left 
 was till lately occupied by the Theatre, fitted up 
 in a style of much elegance and with correspond- 
 ing appendages. It had, however, been long 
 disused for dramatic representations, and has 
 recently been judiciously converted into neat and 
 useful offices for the Land Steward's department. 
 
16 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 THE GRAND NORTH FRONT. 
 
 In the great length of front which is occupied by 
 this triumphal edifice, the architect has judiciously- 
 broken the lines by an exuberant variety of de- 
 sign, and by the frequent introduction of pyra- 
 midal attics, has contrived to lighten the general 
 appearance without detracting from its dignity. 
 
 Immediately in the centre rises a majestic 
 Portico of the Corinthian Order, having the apex 
 of the pediment surmounted by a statue of 
 Minerva, and its tympanum sculptured with the 
 armorial insignia of the Illustrious John Church- 
 ill, amidst a rich profusion of military weapons, 
 standards, &c. ; the motto Fiel Pero Desdichado ; 
 the freize is plain ; at each extremity of the steps 
 ascending to the Hall are pedestals bearing 
 military trophies. The principal division of the 
 building to which the Portico is attached, is 
 carried out on each side by Corinthian pilasters, 
 supporting their entablature and bulustrade ; rising 
 above this centre compartment is an attic, com- 
 posed of a series of piers and windows, and 
 terminating in a second receding pediment, finish- 
 ed with a ball or mound, against which are placed 
 reclining captives. 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 17 
 
 From this division of the building the front 
 projects a few feet, and expands in a gentle curve 
 masking the rectangles of the edifice ; this is 
 composed of a range of Doric pilasters, with their 
 appropriate architrave ; at each corner of the 
 main building, containing the state apartments, is 
 a square massive Tower of two stories in height, 
 horizontally striped with deep indents, above 
 which is a very bold scroll cornice, sustaining an 
 attic with pedestal divisions and angular buttress- 
 es, having a castellated appearance. From each 
 of the Towers on the Grand Front a projecting 
 Terrace, with an Arcade, connects the lateral 
 portions of the building with the centre, which, 
 with the two wings, form the three sides of a 
 large Court, three hundred and forty-eight feet 
 square, entered from the middle of each wing by 
 a noble arch, flanked by rusticated piers, each 
 bearing the British Lion. 
 
 The Wings are of regular architecture, and 
 correspond with each other, and in grandeur of 
 design with the other part of the edifice. 
 
 THE SOUTH FRONT 
 
 Presents almost the same superb display of archi- 
 tectural grandeur with the carriage front. It 
 extends three hundred and forty-eight feet in five 
 
18 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 grand divisions ; the centre, containing the Saloon, 
 is entered by a noble Corinthian Portico, crowned 
 by a pedestal, bearing this inscription — 
 
 EUROP^EE H^EC VINDEX GEN 10 DECORA ALTA 
 BRITANN0.* 
 
 Which may be rendered, " The Liberator of 
 Europe dedicates these lofty honours to the 
 genius of Britain." 
 
 Above the inscription is a fine colossal bust of 
 Louis XIV., taken from the gates of Tournay, 
 surrounded by appropriate military emblems. 
 Above the centre edifice rises at attic, with piers, 
 cornices, &c. From this magnificent centre is a 
 range of building slightly receding, having cir- 
 cular headed windows, between which are Corin- 
 thian pilasters and square lights in the frieze ; at 
 the extremities are massive towers as before 
 described. This front opens to a beautiful lawn, 
 backed by scenery of the most appropriate de- 
 scription, where nature has been embellished with 
 the utmost success. 
 
 The contrivance, uniformity, and grand effect 
 of the whole official part of the arrangement, is 
 
 * The want of the verb in this instance will be no stumbling- 
 block to those who remember its frequent omissions in Latin 
 inscriptions, as — Mneaa hac de Danias Victoribus arma, $c. 
 
BLENHEIM. 19 
 
 the most admired portion of the interior of the 
 building ; the stairs are many and ample ; in 
 short, the communications from and to e very- 
 point are ready, free, and unembarrassed. 
 
 I.— THE HALL 
 
 Is entered from the portico on the principal front, 
 and rises to the height of sixty-seven feet, having 
 its lofty ceiling supported by fluted Corinthian 
 columns, between which, smaller columns of the 
 same order, support an arched corridor leading to 
 the Saloon opposite the entrance. On the key- 
 stone of the arch is the royal arms, with figures 
 of Victory, and palm branches enclosing the 
 crown ; and over the door case is a fine bust of 
 John, Duke of Marlborough, with a latin in- 
 scription, thus rendered ; — 
 
 BEHOLD THE MAN TO DISTANT NATIONS KNOWN, 
 
 WHO SHOOK THE GALLIC, FIX'D THE AUSTRIAN THRONE, 
 
 NEW LUSTRE TO BRITANNIA'S GLORY GAVE ; 
 
 IN COUNCILS PRUDENT, AS IN ACTION BRAVE. 
 
 NOT JULIUS MORE IN ARMS DISTINGUISH'D SHIN'D, 
 
 NOR COULD AUGUSTUS BETTER CALM MANKIND. 
 
 The ceiling of the Hall was painted by Sir James 
 Thornhill, and represents Victory pointing to a 
 plan of the battle of Blenheim, and crowning the 
 Duke, who is in a Roman costume. A gallery of 
 communication extends from each side of the 
 building. In this gallery are portraits of Queen 
 
20 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 Anne, by Sir Peter Lely ; and of Clara 
 Eugenia, Infanta of Spain, and of a Lady in a 
 blue dress : a large collection of family portraits 
 occupy the same gallery. 
 
 In niches, near the angles of the Hall, are 
 bronze statues of the Venus de Medicis, and the 
 Dancing Fawn, cast from the originals, at 
 Florence, by M. Soldani Benzi, in 1711. 
 
 The colonnades on each side are ornamented by 
 marble termini. On a black marble slab stands 
 a fine antique statue of Diana and a hound. Op- 
 posite, on a similar slab, is a beautiful vase, with 
 figures in relievo, representing a nuptial cere- 
 mony, from the antique : over the grand stair-case 
 are pictures of Charles, Duke of Marlborough and 
 family, by Hudson ; and of the first Duke of 
 Marlborough and family, by Closterman ; and 
 beyond the colonnade, on the other side of the 
 Hall is a picture of the Rape of the Sabines, by 
 P. Da. Oartona. On the rirfit side is a wind- 
 dial, and the Listening-slave, in bronze. On the 
 left side is an elegant Clock, by Des Granges ; 
 and a cast of the Roman Wrestlers, by Benzi. 
 
 A massive lock, curiously constructed, and a 
 key of corresponding weight and dimensions, 
 secure the Hall doors. The lock, which is ex- 
 tremely handsome, is embellished with his Grace's 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 21 
 
 arms, and was manufactured by Smith and Son, 
 of Birmingham. 
 
 From the Hall we are conducted through a 
 long gallery to the 
 
 II.— BOW-WINDOW ROOM. 
 
 The ceiling of this room, supported by Corinthian 
 columns, is adorned with military trophies, by 
 Hakewell. The tapestry on the right of the 
 entrance, represents the battle of Blenheim, with 
 the taking of Marshal Tallard : on the left, the 
 tapestry consists of a representation of the battle 
 of Wynendael, in the Austrian Netherlands,fought 
 27th Sept. 1708. The chairs in this room are in 
 the style of Louis XIV., and their seats crimson 
 damask. The paintings are 
 
 John, Duke of Marlborough and Gen. Armstrong, Kneller, 
 
 Prince Eugene Kneller. 
 
 King William III G. Sbhdkken. 
 
 The Thanks of Parliament to the first Duke of Marlborough, 
 beautifully illuminated, in elegant gold frame, carved 
 with trophies of War, and the Arms of the Duke. 
 
 The Adorations of the Shepherds L. Giordano. 
 
 Female Head Veronese. 
 
 Head Holbein. 
 
 Temple of Janus , M. Racci. 
 
 Landscape P. Reinagale. 
 
 Female Head Veronese. 
 
 D 
 
A GUIDE TO 
 
 Man's Head m . . Titian. 
 
 Head L. da Vinci. 
 
 Flight into Egypt S. Racci. 
 
 Wood Nymphs and Satyr J. Van Balen. 
 
 St. Jerome Studying Giorgione. 
 
 To the left or north side of the Bow -window 
 room, are the State Bed Chamber, and the 
 Duke's Morning Sitting Room. The furniture 
 and hangings in the State Bed Room are of the 
 most superb character. The ceilings, fresh from 
 the hands of the decorator, are adorned with the 
 Ducal arms and other devices, beautifully exe- 
 cuted, and the whole is splendid and tasteful in 
 the extreme. In the Duke's Morning Sitting 
 Room is a matchless collection of paintings, by 
 Teniers. 
 
 From the Bow- Window Room we proceed to 
 
 III.— THE BILLIARD ROOM. 
 
 The ceiling is plain, with a neat tripple cornice. 
 Colour, pale green. The furniture to match.— 
 In this room are the following paintings : — 
 
 Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, and Lady Fitz Harding 
 
 at Cards Kneller. 
 
 Elizabeth, second Duchess of Marlborough Hudson. 
 
 Caroline, third Duchess of Marlborough Kettle. 
 
 Ann, Countess of Sunderland, second daughter of John, 
 
 first Duke of Marlborough Kneller. 
 
BLENHEIM. 28 
 
 Earl of Sunderland Kneller. 
 
 Four Children of John, Duke of Marlborough ditto. 
 
 First Marquis of Blandford ditto. 
 
 Lady Henrietta and Lady Ann Churchill ditto. 
 
 Elizabeth, Countess of Pembroke Reynolds. 
 
 Lord Charles Spencer ditto. 
 
 Lord Robert Spencer ditto. 
 
 Portrait of a Dutch Merchant and Family Weenix. 
 
 Two Landscapes Van Tempest. 
 
 Fine Landscape F. Mola. 
 
 Large Game Piece, Dead Bucks, &c Snyders. 
 
 Lady Caroline, Sister to the present Duke Cosway. 
 
 Boar Hunt Snyders. 
 
 Young Boars ditto. 
 
 We next enter 
 
 IV. — THE BREAKFAST ROOM. 
 
 The furniture in this apartment is of a most 
 tasteful character, and in excellent keeping with 
 the colour of the room, which is a delicate pale 
 green. Sundry ornaments are to be seen on the 
 chimney-piece and other parts of the room. The 
 paintings are these — 
 
 A Family Piece (children of the present Duke of Marlbo- 
 rough) Marquis of Blandford — Lady Louisa Churchill 
 
 — Lord Alfred and Lord Alan Churchill . . . Sander*. 
 
 Meleagar and Atalanta Rvbens. 
 
 Head Holbein. 
 
 Very fine Portrait of a Lady, in oval frame Vandyck. 
 
 Offering of the Rosary Ruben$. 
 
A GUIDE TO 
 
 Two small Paintings Ferg. 
 
 Four ditto F.P. Ferg. 
 
 A Knight of Saint John of Jerusalem Baroceio. 
 
 Lady Anne Churchill Knetter. 
 
 King Edward IV Holbein. 
 
 Saint John Baptising Christ Niceland. 
 
 Duchess of Buckingham and Family Vandyck. 
 
 Villiers, Duke of Buckingham ditto. 
 
 Mary, Duchess of Richmond, daughter of the first Duke 
 of Buckingham, receiving a pair of Gloves from a 
 
 Female Dwarf. Vandyck. 
 
 Landscape Bordewyns. 
 
 Orpheus charming the Brutes Brughel. 
 
 Cattle Piece R, da Tivoli 
 
 Gertrude, Duchess of Bedford Dance. 
 
 Wood Nymphs and Satyr Albano. 
 
 Two Landscapes Poussin. 
 
 Battle of the Boyne, and King "William III. on horseback 
 in the foreground, 1 092 J. Wick. 
 
 Landscape with figures Pater. 
 
 Ditto Paul Brill. 
 
 Sarah, first Duchess of Marlborough Kneller. 
 
 Henrietta Maria, Queen to Charles I Vandyck. 
 
 Two whole length Portraits Myttens. 
 
 A Fete Champetre Pater. 
 
 Portrait of Lord Rodney and Mr. Sidney Leb;. 
 
 Small oval ditto of Cromwell , Vandyck. 
 
 Head Brouwer. 
 
 Architectural Piece Delen. 
 
 Interior of a Church Neffs. 
 
 Cattle Piece Bamboccio. 
 
 Gipsies Encamping Wouvermans. 
 
 Duchess of Bedford G. Honthorst. 
 
 Lady Penelopy Spencer Lely 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 25 
 
 V.— THE GRAND CABINET. 
 
 This room commands remarkably fine views of the 
 beautiful scenery to the south and east ; the 
 ceiling and hangings of this apartment are of the 
 richest description ; the chimney-piece is com- 
 posed of dark marble ; upon it stands two very 
 curious jars. The floor of this room is covered 
 with a rich and costly velvet pile carpet, of Scotch 
 manufacture. 
 
 The paintings are — - 
 
 Lots Departure from Sodom, a present from the Town 
 of Antwerp .... Rubens. 
 
 Return of Joseph and Mary with Christ from Egypt. . ditto. 
 
 Filial Affection exemplified in the Roman Daughter ditto. 
 
 Offering of the Magi ditto. 
 
 Descent from the Cross , . . .Jordeans. 
 
 Holy Family Rubens. 
 
 Portrait of Rubens , , ditto. 
 
 The Virgin, with a Crown of Stars, turning her eyes 
 towards Heaven, (supposed the Miraculous Con- 
 ception), . Carlo Dolce, 
 
 Raphael's favourite Dorothea Raphael. 
 
 A Dutch Family Ostade. 
 
 The Children of Israel passing through the Red Sea 
 
 Old Frank. 
 
 Offering of the Magi Carlo Dolce. 
 
 Head of Paracelsus. . Rubens. 
 
 Pope Gregory, and a Female Penitent bearing a Palm 
 
 Branch Titian. 
 
 Holy Family L. V. Caraccu 
 
26 A GUIDE TO 
 
 Virgin and Child Solimena, 
 
 Fete Champetre „ Wooteau. 
 
 Virgin and Child Correggio. 
 
 Our Saviour Blessing the Children/ 'Suffer little Chil- 
 dren to come unto Me, and forbid them not." Rubens. 
 
 Monkeys in Monks Habits Tenters. 
 
 Card Players ditto. 
 
 Female Head „ Nogari. 
 
 Landscape , Ruysdaah 
 
 Our Saviour ; Carlo Dolce. 
 
 Christ and St. John Rubens. 
 
 Virgin and Child A. Caracci. 
 
 Angel at the Tomb Correggio. 
 
 St. John Carlo Dolce. 
 
 Our Saviour and the Virgin Mary in the Clouds, with 
 
 St. Bernard paying Adoration H. Caracci. 
 
 Holy Family L. V. Caracci. 
 
 Landscape Claude. 
 
 Small Painting Tintoretto. 
 
 A fine Head, after A. Caracci Reynolds. 
 
 Head of an Apostle L. V. Caracci. 
 
 The Assumption Tintoretto. 
 
 Female Head Rubens. 
 
 Portrait of Lady Louisa Churchill G. Sanders. 
 
 Small Head Nogari. 
 
 Small fine Painting . Varderneer. 
 
 We next proceed to 
 
 VI. — THE SMALL DRAWING ROOM. 
 
 The hangings are of green damask, and the 
 furniture corresponds. In the centre of the chim- 
 ney piece is a head in white marble, admirably 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 27 
 
 finished. The ceiling is elegantly gilded, and 
 from its centre is suspended a handsome chandelier, 
 of carved oak, richly gilt. The paintings are the 
 following, and will be found possessed of much 
 interest : 
 
 Italian Fruit Seller Giordano. 
 
 Caroline, Duchess of Marlborough, and Child . . Reynolds. 
 
 The present Duke of Marlborough , . . Smith. 
 
 Jane, fifth Duchess of Marlborough, (Painted from a 
 
 Miniature after the Demise of Her Grace .... Smith. 
 
 Sarah, first Duchess of Marlborough Kneller. 
 
 George, third Duke of Marlborough Reynolds. 
 
 Marquis of Tavistock Reynolds. 
 
 Small highly finished Spanish FamilyPiece Congalez. 
 
 Prize Fruit Lance. 
 
 Battle Piece Burgognene. 
 
 Present Duke of Marlborough and Lord Charles, his 
 
 Brother, when boys Cosway. 
 
 View in Venice Canaletti. 
 
 View in Venice ditto. 
 
 View in Venice ditto. 
 
 View in Venice ditto. 
 
 Lady Charlotte Spencer, in the character of a Gipsey, 
 
 telling Lord Henry Spencer, her Brother, his 
 
 Fortnne Reynolds. 
 
 Holy Family Raphael. 
 
 The Annunciation Correggio. 
 
 Landscape Claude. 
 
 The Circumcision Vandyck. 
 
 Burning of Troy Guido. 
 
 Travellers taking Refreshment at an Ale House door, 
 
 and distant View of Dort Albert Cuyp. 
 
 The Inexorable Saut. 
 
28 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 Destruction of Pharoah and his Host in the Red Sea, 
 
 Old Frank. 
 
 An Old Dutch Woma n at her Spinning Wheel . . Tenters, 
 
 Dutch Landscape - ditto. 
 
 Virgin and Child, St. John and St. Nicholas . . . . Raphael. 
 
 Virgin and Child Gorgone. 
 
 Virgin and Child Poussin. 
 
 Virgin and Child - ditto. 
 
 Adoration of Shepherds Lucia Giordano. 
 
 Offering of the Magi ditto. 
 
 Holy Family encircled with Flowers Rothenhamer. 
 
 Ditto ditto. 
 
 Marriage of Mars and Venus, very fine ditto. 
 
 Banquet of the Gods, very fine ditto. 
 
 St. Lawrence distributing the Ornaments of the Alter 
 
 Genoese. 
 
 The Carpet in this room is similar to that in the 
 Grand Cabinet. 
 
 VII. — THE LARGE DRAWING ROOM. 
 
 The furniture and hangings, as in the room we 
 have just quitted, are of green damask. The 
 chimney-piece is adorned in the centre by a fine 
 alto-relievo representing the marriage of Cupid 
 and Psyche, from the antique. 
 
 The paintings in this apartment are by able 
 masters, and will reward attention. They are the 
 following : — 
 
 Isaac Blessing Jacob 
 
 King Charles I. on Horseback 
 
 Rembrandt 
 , . Vandyck. 
 
BLENHEIM. 29 
 
 Two Portraits, Ladies Vandyck. 
 
 St. Sebastian Titian. 
 
 A Madonna standing on a Globe, surrounded by Angels 
 
 C. Maratti. 
 
 Time clipping Cupid's Wings Vandyck. 
 
 Three Beggar Boys Murillo. 
 
 Two ditto ditto. 
 
 Two Battle Pieces \ Wouvermans. 
 
 A Family Picture of George, third Duke of Marlborough^ 
 Caroline his Duchess, and six Children — viz Ladies 
 Caroline, Elizabeth, Ann, and Charlotte ; George, 
 (fourth Duke) and Lord Henry Spencer. (The late 
 Lord Churchill and Lady Amelia Boyce were born 
 after this Picture was painted.) Reynolds. 
 
 The Woman taken in Adultery Rembrandt. 
 
 The carpet in this room also corresponds with the 
 one in the Small Drawing Room. 
 
 VIII.— THE DINING ROOM. 
 
 This noble apartment is large, lofty, and well 
 adapted to its object. Its furniture is also appro- 
 priate. The long and very handsome table it 
 contains, as well as the elegant side-board and 
 side tables, adorned with the arms of His Grace, 
 and other devices, exquisitely carved, is of 
 English oak ; the wine coolers, carved with Bac- 
 chanalian figures, is of the same style and materials. 
 The wainscotted sides are painted in imitation 
 
 of oak, and the ceiling is beautifully stuccoed. 
 
 E 
 
36 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 The chimney-piece is particularly handsome ; on 
 it stands an elegant clock, mounted on the back 
 of an elephant, in bronze, and several other orna- 
 mental figures. 
 
 The following paintings are contained in this room: 
 
 John, first Duke of Marlborough .Kneller. 
 
 Charles, second Duke of Marlborough Hudson. 
 
 George, third Duke of Marlborough . . . . Reynolds. 
 
 George, fourth Duke of Marlborough Cosway. 
 
 The present Duke of Marlborough Sanders. 
 
 John, Duke of Bedford Gainsborough. 
 
 Lord Stafford and Secretary Vandyck. 
 
 Bacchanalian Piece Rubens. 
 
 Virgin and Child ditto. 
 
 Holy Family ditto. 
 
 Holy Family ditto. 
 
 Venus and Adonis ditto. 
 
 Catherine de Medicis ditto. 
 
 Helena Forman, wife of Rubens, in the costume of 
 
 an Archduchess . ditto. 
 
 Philip II. of Spain Titian. 
 
 Three Graces, or Rubens' three Wives Rubens. 
 
 Andromeda Chained to a Rock with Perseus just ap- 
 pearing ditto. 
 
 Lot and his Daughters, very fine ... ditto. 
 
 Rubens, his Wife and Child ditto. 
 
 Large Bacchanalian Piece ditto. 
 
 King Charles I Vandyck. 
 
 Henrietta Maria, Queen to Charles I ditto. 
 
 Virgin and Child ditto. 
 
 Mrs. Morton and Mrs. Killigrew, two of Charles the 
 
 Second's favourites P. Lely. 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 31 
 
 IX.— THE SALOON 
 
 Is a most noble room, in form a parallelogram, 
 rising to the whole height of the building, in the 
 same manner as, and communicating with the 
 Great Hall. Its base is marble ; the four door- 
 cases are also of marble, consisting of pilasters, 
 supporting an arch with shell key-stone, within 
 which is a smaller door-way, surmounted by the 
 arms of the first Duke of Marlborough. On the 
 west side of the room are two chimney-pieces ; 
 over one is an antique bust of a Roman Consul, 
 and over the other a bust of Caracalla, also an 
 antique ; on slabs are placed a Sleeping Venus 
 and a Cleopatra. On the east side of the room 
 are two tiers of circular-headed windows ; every 
 other side, and the ceiling, is painted with scenic 
 effect, by La Guerre ; the lower part, divided 
 into six compartments, by double columns of the 
 composite order, fluted and decorated with dra- 
 peries, fruit and palm branches, supporting an 
 entablature consonant to the order. In each 
 compartment are assemblages of different charac- 
 ters representing the various nations of the world 
 in their proper costume. 1 English, French and 
 Scotch. In this division the portrait of the artist 
 himself is made conspicuous,, and that of the 
 
32 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 Englishman is said to represent Dean Jones, chap- 
 lain to Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough. 2. 
 Spaniards. 3. Africans. 4. Chinese and Tartars. 
 5. Turks. 6. Dutch and Swedes. Over the door- 
 cases are bas reliefs of angels, &c. ; above the 
 entablature, and immediately below the ceiling, 
 are Roman termini, male and female, supporting 
 oval shaped perforations ; between them armour, 
 standards, prisoners, and military trophies, Roman 
 soldiers and banners, allusive of the Duke of 
 Marlborough's victories. The ceiling is oval, 
 with very rich foliages, inclosing a magnificent 
 group, representing the illustrious Duke in a 
 Roman habit, arrested in his career of Victory by 
 Peace, Time reminding him of the rapidity of his 
 own flight. 
 
 X. — THE FIRST STATE DRAWING ROOM 
 
 Is hung with tapestry representing Victories of 
 the Duke of Marlborough, viz — The Battle of 
 Dunnewert, on the Danube, in Bavaria, fought 
 July 3, 1704 ; the Battle of Lisle, fought Dec. 9, 
 1708 ; and the Siege of Lisle, which took place 
 the same year. In this part a French spy is a 
 conspicuous figure. The Battle of Malpaquet, so 
 called from a village situated near the scene of 
 action. This victory took place at Blaregnes, a 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 33 
 
 town of Hainault, in the Austrian Netherlands, 
 1709 : an aid-de-camp receiving orders is a pro- 
 minent figure in the tapestry. On the chimney- 
 piece is a curious clock, by Vulliamy, the hours 
 are indicated round a vase, from the top of which 
 a serpent winds, and shews the time ; reclining 
 over the vase is a figure of Contemplation. 
 
 The paintings are — 
 
 Caroline, Duchess of Marlborough Romney. 
 
 Death of Adonis Jordeans. 
 
 Sleeping Venus , G. Lair esse. 
 
 Five Landscapes M. Racci. 
 
 Spanish Mule Driver and Peasants . . Lancret. 
 
 XI.— SECOND STATE DRAWING ROOM. 
 
 This is a most elegant apartment ; the furniture 
 and curtains are of crimson damask ; the chimney- 
 piece is of white marble, in the centre of a vase, 
 supported by Griffins ; the room is hung with 
 tapestry representing the Victories of the Hero of 
 Blenheim, in continuation. The march to Bou- 
 chain, in August, 1711, and the siege of Bouchain 
 in the same year, the last and boldest enterprize 
 of the Duke. In this is represented Lord Cado- 
 gan's favourite dog, that attended his master 
 through the wars The paintings are 
 
 George, third Duke of Marlborough Romney. 
 
 Two Pieces, Still Life Maltese. 
 
34 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 XII. — THIRD STATE DRAWING ROOM. 
 
 The hangings and furniture in this room are 
 rich crimson damask. In it stands a small table 
 of much interest, which belonged to Marie An- 
 toinette, the unhappy Queen of France, whose 
 violent death is a subject of such deep reproach 
 to its authors. 
 
 The tapestry in this room is of the same charac- 
 ter as in those we have just left, and is equally 
 ancient. It has but recently been put up, and 
 submitted to the inspection of the public. It re- 
 presents the Battle of Oudenaerde and Bouchain. 
 
 On a marble table is a beautiful copy of the ce- 
 lebrated Portland Vase, so wantonly destroyed, 
 while exhibited at the British Museum, a short 
 time since. In another part of the room is a clock 
 of peculiar constuction, chiefly remarkable for 
 the lengthened period it is capable of going with- 
 out farther attention, after it has been wound up 
 and set in motion. 
 
 The pictures in this apartment are 
 
 Abraham's Servant returning with Rebekah . . Castiglione. 
 Seneca bleeding to death, and dictating to his 
 
 St. Sebastian] 
 
 Three Landscapes 
 Rape of Europa . . 
 
 Amanuensis 
 
 L. Giordano. 
 Bellino. 
 
 . . M. Racci. 
 P. Veronese. 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 35 
 
 XIII.— THE LIBRARY. 
 This is said to be one of the grandest rooms in 
 Europe. It was originally intended for a Picture 
 Gallery, and occupies the entire south-west front, 
 183 feet in length. The centre takes a semicircu- 
 lar sweep, and at each extremity is a square in 
 projection 35 feet, forming five distinct divisions, 
 with three windows in each, between Doric pilas- 
 ters that support the entablature ; on the opposite 
 side are three door ways and two chimney-pieces ; 
 the rest of the room is occupied by a line of book- 
 cases with latticed fronts, which are continued at 
 each end ; the centre door-way and the chimney- 
 piece are of white marble, the basement of the 
 room of black marble ; over the door is a bust of 
 Milo Crotenensis ; the chimney-pieces are elabo- 
 rately worked, will scroll prediments ; over one is 
 a bust of Charles, Earl of Sunderland, the col- 
 lector of the books ; and over the other, a bust of 
 Charles, Duke of Marlborough, by Rysbrach ; 
 upon each chimney-piece is an antique bust, one 
 of the Emperor Adrian, the other a young female. 
 At the upper end of the Library is a much-admired 
 white marble statue of Queen Anne, very highly 
 finished, by Rysbrach, she is represent in her 
 coronation robes, and on the pedestal is this in- 
 scription ; — 
 
36 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 TO THE MEMORY OF QUEEN ANNE ! 
 UNDER WHOSE AUSPICES 
 JOHN DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH 
 CONQUERED 
 AND TO WHOSE MUNIFICENCE 
 HE AND HIS POSTERITY 
 WITH GRATITUDE 
 OWE THE POSSESSION OF BLENHEIM. 
 A. D. MDCCXXVI. 
 
 On the east side stands the Grand Cabinet, a 
 piece of elegant and curious workmanship, richly 
 inlaid. 
 
 At the lower end is a bust of Alexander the 
 Great, from the ruins of Herculaneum, supported 
 on a therm, designed by Sir Wm. Chambers. 
 Near it are a quantity of beautiful alabaster 
 figures, representing the Muses^ Graces, &c, a 
 present from Rome, to Jane, fifth Duchess of Marl- 
 borough ; and in two recesses are antique statues* 
 one is inscribed Julia Domna, the other is a figure 
 of Diana with a hound. The ceiling is painted 
 in richly bordered compartments ; and over the 
 book-cases are the following whole-length portraits 
 — Lord Godolphin ; John, Duke of Montague ; 
 Countess of Sunderland ; Elizabeth, Countess of 
 Bridgwater ; the Countess Cowper ; the Hon. 
 John Spencer ; Elizabeth, Duchess of Marlbo* 
 rough ,* Charles, Duke of Marlborough ; Sarah, 
 
BLENHEIM. 87 
 
 Duchess of Marlborough ; John, Duke of Marl- 
 borough ; Queen Anne ; and King William. 
 
 The Library was originally collected by Charles, 
 third Earl of Sunderland, who laid the foundation 
 by the purchase of Mr. Hadrian Bayerland's 
 entire and very valuable collection. The whole 
 is said to consist of 17,000 volumes, in various 
 languages, and to be worth £60,000. Here is a 
 large telescope, by Herschel, the gift of George 
 III. to George, third Duke of Marlborough. 
 
 We may remark here, that the whole suit of 
 apartments through which we have passed, is fur- 
 nished with double doors of beautiful mahogany, 
 which, being open, allow the eye to range from 
 the Library to the Grand Cabinet— a noble vista 
 of nearly four hundred feet in extent. 
 
 XIV. — THE CHAPEL 
 
 Is situated in the south-west wing: the effect on 
 entering this portion of the building is extremely 
 grand ; the richly bordered ceiling is supported 
 by Corinthian pilasters. In a square recess is the 
 Altar, opposite to which is the State Gallery, ele- 
 vated by Doric columns, It is hung with crimson 
 velvet, fringed with gold. But every object in 
 
 F 
 
38 
 
 A GUIDE, TO 
 
 the Chapel is rendered of minor importance to 
 the gigantic Monument to the Duke of Marl- 
 borough, by Rysbrach, which occupies nearly 
 the whole of one side. It comprises colossal 
 statues of the first Duke and Duchess, and their 
 two sons, attended by Fame and History, the latter 
 of which appears to have inscribed on a tablet, 
 
 TO THE MEMORY 
 OF JOHN DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH AND 
 HIS TWO SONS 
 HIS DUCHESS HAS ERECTED 
 THIS MONUMENT 
 IN THE YEAR OF CHRIST MDCCXXXIII. 
 
 On the base is a basso relievo, representing the 
 capture of Marshal Tallard, at the battle of Blen- 
 heim: the whole monument is splendid. His 
 Grace died at Windsor, on June 16, 1722 ; and, 
 on August 9 ensuing, after lying in state at Marl- 
 borough House, his corpse was, with very great 
 magnificence, interred in Westminster Abbey, 
 from whence upon the death of his Duchess, it 
 was afterwards removed to the vault under this 
 Chapel. 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 39 
 
 THE TITIAN ROOM 
 
 May be seen by applying to the Porter at the East Gate of the 
 Palace. 
 
 This apartment contains an invaluable collection 
 of Paintings, by Titian ; a present from the King 
 of Sardinia, Victor Amedeus, to John, Duke of 
 Marlborough. These admirably executed paint- 
 ings are on leather, and consist of the following ; 
 
 I. Hercules and Dejanira. 
 II. Pluto and Proserpine. 
 
 III. Cupid and Psyche. 
 
 IV. Jupiter, Juno, and Io. 
 V. Bacchus and Ariadne. 
 
 VI. Apollo and Daphne. 
 VII. Vulcan and Ceres. 
 VIII. Mars and Venus. 
 IX. Neptune and Amphitrite. 
 
 These figures are of colossal size, and cover three 
 sides of the room, the fourth side being occupied 
 by the Rape of Proserpine, by Rubens. 
 
 THE GARDENS. 
 
 The Gardens of Blenheim are deservedly reck- 
 oned among its principal attractions. They are of 
 great extent, occupy a most happy situation, and 
 
40 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 are, perhaps, as perfect a specimen of picturesque, 
 or landscape gardening, as can be conceived. Art 
 may do much to supply natural deficiencies, but 
 where the space is limited to, perhaps, a couple, 
 or even half a dozen acres, the most consummate 
 art can effect but little in the way of landscape 
 gardening, and the result will commonly be con- 
 temptible from its minuteness. The Gardens of 
 Blenheim, however, are on a scale of sufficiently 
 grand extent, and the nature of their surface such 
 as to invite embellishment, which has here been 
 bestowed in profusion ; and, at the same time, 
 with such admirable skill, taste, and judgment, 
 that while its influence is scarcely suspected, its 
 excellent effects are every where manifest. 
 
 These Gardens, including under the term the 
 grounds, to which the public are admitted, either 
 with or without tickets, lie chiefly to the south of 
 the palace, embracing also its east and west fronts. 
 They occupy an extent of nearly three hundred 
 acres of land, of which about one hundred and 
 forty are constantly under the scythe^ and exhibit 
 a turf not more smooth and agreeable to the eye, 
 than soft and pleasant to the feet. Where not 
 shut in by the palace and the lake, the latter of 
 which skirts nearly the whole of their western 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 41 
 
 side, they are encompassed by a sunken fence, 
 the most eligible that can be for such a purpose, 
 as while it gives every necessary protection, it 
 avoids the stiffness and formality, which attach in 
 a great measure to almost every other description 
 of boundary ; and, at the same time, allows the 
 eye to wander, free, and uninterrupted, to those 
 more distant objects, which contribute to the 
 beauty of these delightful grounds. 
 
 The usual entrance into the Gardens, is by a 
 door in the angle on the east front, a few yards to 
 the south of the eastern gate of the Palace, and 
 every requisite information as to the manner of 
 gaining admittance, may be obtained of the Porter. 
 
 Passing through this entrance door, we proceed 
 through a lawn, embellished with evergreens, and 
 a variety of deciduous flowering shrubs, to the 
 South Front of the Palace, till we arrive at its 
 western extremity, when a flight of steps conducts 
 into that most exquisite and delicious portion of 
 the ornamental grounds of Blenheim, known as 
 the Private Gardens. From the top of the stairs 
 a view presents itself of a most pleasing character, 
 and no unfavourable prelude to the many delight- 
 ful scenes which await the parties privileged to 
 enter this delicious retreat. 
 
42 
 
 A GUIDE- TO 
 
 Descending, we are instantly in the Flower 
 Garden adjoining the Western Front ot the Palace. 
 
 In an appropriate room, with Chinese decora- 
 tions, in this part of the Castle, is* deposited an 
 extensive and most valuable collection of antique 
 and curious Porcelain, Delph, and Japan ware, 
 among which are curiosities from the collections of 
 the Duke of Orleans and d'Aumont ; a pair of 
 small bottles, once the property of Queen Anne ; 
 a white tea-pot that belonged to Oliver Cromwell ; 
 a large japan tea-pot* a present from Louis XIV. 
 to the Duke of Richelieu ; many from the Port- 
 land Museum ; a singular piece from the Duke of 
 Argyll's curiosities, in the time of George II ; a 
 curious piece of Delf, from Athens ; specimens of 
 the honey-combe China, &c. &c. 
 
 The Magnolia Grandiflora, and a variety of 
 climbing plants, are trained up the walls of the 
 west front ; and on the circular beds with which 
 the area before it is dotted over, is a great variety 
 of annuals, green-house plants, and others, either 
 rare, choice, or beautiful. On the descent towards 
 the lake are fine standard Magnolias, the Abies 
 Douglassii, Arauricaria Imbricata, &c. &c. But 
 that which confers a principal charm to this 
 northern part of the Private Gardens, is the pro- 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 fusion of Roses, and the almost endless variety of 
 that universal favourite which adorns it. Between 
 fifteen and sixteen hundred species of this ad- 
 mired tree find place in these gardens, of which 
 number a large and choice portion have their 
 station here. 
 
 The Rustic Temple in this part of the gardens 
 will merit a transient notice. It is a circular 
 shaped erection, having its roof supported on a 
 double row of pillars ; the inner rank connected 
 by festoons ; the whole constructed of the most 
 simple materials, but producing a very pleasing 
 effect, and evidencing the power of taste in no 
 ordinary degree. Rustic seats in character with 
 the Temple furnish the interior, and a covering of 
 Irish Ivy, harmonizes it with the surrounding 
 scenery. Of course, its site was not fixed upon 
 without consideration, and it is hardly necessary 
 to say that this position commands pleasing pros- 
 pects. The Farm House in the Park, erected by 
 the present Duke, has a good effect as seen from 
 it, and the High Lodge appears to advantage 
 through a vista of forest trees. 
 
 Amidst trees of almost every form and size — the 
 Golden Yew, Catalpa, Table Torn, Yellow Chest- 
 nut, Scarlet Oak, Copper Beech, and a host, in, 
 
44 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 fact, which it would fill a lengthened catalogue to 
 particularize, but especially noticing an aged Oak, 
 a picture in itself, we advance in a southern di- 
 rection towards the Chinese Temple, a tasteful 
 structure, in an enclosure of Woodbine and various 
 climbing plants of a suitable character. The 
 neighbourhood of this Temple is peculiarly rich 
 in pines of various species Advancing in the same 
 direction, among other trees, we notice that which 
 furnishes the gum Benjamin, the Virgilia Lute a, 
 Quercus Rubra and Coccinea, the Tooth-ache 
 tree, an object of attention to the younger visitors 
 in general, the Quercus Macrophylla, Pinus Pon- 
 derosa, and the beautiful Cedrus Deodar, twenty - 
 feet high, growing in congenial situations to many 
 times it present altitude. At length we reach 
 the Esquimaux Hut, a rude and simple structure, 
 which, judging from the representation we have 
 seen of such objects in the Books of travellers, 
 may be regarded as a very successful imitation. 
 In the vicinity of this Hut, we have one of the 
 most lovely and enchanting scenes that imagination 
 can conceive. Its constituent parts are trees of 
 the noblest character, occupying the most favour- 
 able relative positions, and the obelisks of the 
 fountains in the depth of the valley, through 
 which flows the river after leaving the Cascade^ 
 
BLENHEIM, 
 
 45 
 
 itself a principal embellishment of this beautiful 
 sequestered spot. Every object, indeed, seems to 
 be in the most proper place, and the whole scene, 
 though of limited extent, is like a work of en- 
 chantment, and reminds one of those rich imagi- 
 native descriptions, sometimes to be met with in 
 tales of Eastern fiction and romance. 
 
 Adjoining this interesting station is the Ameri- 
 can Garden, consisting, as its name suggests, 
 of plants, &c. introduced from the New World, 
 Descending hence into the valley, we obtain a 
 nearer and more perfect view of the several ob- 
 jects we have so lately been contemplating. Of 
 these the first to be visited is the Grand Cascade, 
 the effect of which when in full force, is not to be 
 surpassed, perhaps, by any artificial fall of waters 
 whatever : and equals in beauty and interest most 
 of those natural Cascades, of greater dimensions, 
 which are met with in mountainous districts. It 
 is in fact the termination of the Lake, which here 
 discharges its surplus waters. These, gently and 
 calmly gliding to the verge of the Cascade, are at 
 once precipitated down its rugged steep ; and, 
 tossed from one projecting point to another in 
 their descent, become a mass of agitated foam, till 
 they sink again into comparative repose in the 
 canal-like river which receives them. 
 
 G 
 
46 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 Near the Cascade is New Found Well, a 
 chalybeat spring, not now possessed of any very 
 powerful medicinal properties, whatever might 
 have been the case, in that respect, at the time of 
 its first discovery. Issuing from an opening in 
 the pedestal, surmounted by an urn, the waters of 
 this spring are received in an appropriate basin, 
 and flowing thence, through the mouths of two 
 lions, are presently lost in the adjoining river. 
 
 A few yards still lower down is a small Island, 
 emerging from the centre of the placid river, with 
 its simple but picturesque thatched edifice, and 
 embellishments of handsome trees, evergreens, and 
 flowering shrubs, rendering this a highly favoured 
 and delightful little spot. But among the princi- 
 pal ornaments of this locality, we must undoubt- 
 edly rank 
 
 THE GRAND FOUNTAIN. 
 
 This was the last work on which the genius of 
 Bernini was engaged. It is, with some slight de- 
 viation, a copy of the original executed by him, 
 and erected in the Piazza Navona, at Rome. The 
 Obelisk stands upon a foundation of rude stones, 
 thrown together with apparent negligence, occu- 
 pying the centre of a large basin. On two sides 
 ©f the base of the obelisk are several armorial en- 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 47 
 
 signs ; and on another side, on the square of the 
 pedestal, which is of white marble, we read the 
 following inscription, in the Greek, Italian, 
 Spanish, and Latin languages : 
 
 AD INNOCENTIUM XI. SUMMUM PONTIFICEM 
 
 PRO. CAROLO. II. HISPANIARUM REGE 
 EXCELC : D. D. GASPAR ; DE HARO, ET 
 GUZMAN. 
 
 murchio. de carpio. et helicheo orator, 
 ad typum molis. in agonali foro erect js. 
 ab equite. bernino. opus. hoc. exstrui. 
 jussit, eodem. dirigente. qui. interim, 
 dum perficeretur defunctus. 
 hoc: posthumo. partu: inexhaustam. 
 mentis. foecunditatem clausit. 
 anno d : m : dc : lxxxi. 
 Leaving the valley, our course now lies, in a 
 northern direction, up the acclivity on the west 
 side of the lake. The ascent affords several views 
 of pleasing character and great interest. From 
 under Spring-lock Gate Cottage, erected by the 
 present Duke, beautifully situated, and highly 
 picturesque, the eye of taste cannot fail to be 
 gratified by a parting contemplation of the objects 
 we have just left ; and which, from this point, 
 combine to form a most delightful scene. Pro- 
 ceeding onwards in the same direction, our farther 
 
48 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 progress seems suddenly arrested by a formidable 
 barrier of rude stones, standing edgeways, and 
 separating us from the Rock Gardens. Like many 
 other obstacles and apparent difficulties, however, 
 this upon trial, is found not to be insurmountable. 
 On applying the slightest pressure, one of these 
 huge masses, nicely balanced, turns upon a pivot, 
 let into solid masonry, and affords an easy passage, 
 when almost immediately we find ourselves over- 
 looking the Rock Gardens, and charmed with one 
 of those lovely scenes in which the pleasure 
 grounds are so remarkably fruitful. The Grand 
 Bridge, partially hidden by a projecting tongue 
 of land, and backed by distant trees, with the fine 
 expanse of water seen through a vista of graceful 
 pendent trees, &c., are alone sufficient to give eclat 
 to this locality ; and yet, changing our position, 
 but a few yards, we are introduced to an almost 
 entirely distinct class of objects of equal interest : 
 the Palace towers in proud majesty over the Pri- 
 vate Gardens ; — in front is a light Iron Bridge, 
 connecting the Rock Garden with the opposite 
 Pleasure Grounds, while the intervening Lake 
 reflects, in soften hues, the objects on its banks ; 
 is adorned by some gliding little boat ; or enliven- 
 ed by the congregated wild fowl, sporting on its 
 glassy surface. Hence we descend to the 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 49 
 
 ROCK GARDEN. 
 
 This possesses many attractions peculiar to itself, 
 and will be sure to secure the attention of the 
 botanist. Every crevice, and every projection, is 
 occupied by some rare, curious, or beautiful plant, 
 native or exotic. The whole is on a grand scale, 
 and has given rise to a host of humble imitations. 
 
 By means of the Iron Bridge, we re-gain the 
 Gardens on the eastern side of the lake ; and, ad- 
 vancing in the direction of the Palace, we are 
 continually delighted either by some object alto- 
 gether new, or seen in a new combination or 
 position. The American Garden, now on our 
 right hand, regales the eye with Azalias, Calmias, 
 &c. in gay profusion, and the murmurs of the 
 Cascade fall upon the ear with a tranquillizing in- 
 fluence. To mention all the remarkable trees which 
 meet us in our walk through these delightful 
 grounds, is beyond our design : their frequent 
 recurrence forbids the detail, while it so greatly 
 contributes to our gratification. We cannot for- 
 bear, however, to point to the noble Portugal 
 Laurel, three hundred and twenty feet in circum- 
 ference, which is here a conspicuous object, and a 
 venerable and majestic Oak at which we speedily 
 arrive, and which would seem entitled to the 
 
50 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 honours of the Patriarch of the Private Gardens. 
 Leaving the dense woods behind, we are, ever and 
 anon, charmed by highly pleasing views, some- 
 times through narrow vistas between the trees, 
 which skirt the lake on our left hand, at other 
 times of a handsome and more open character, 
 exhibiting, with never cloying interest, the scenery 
 of the park or forest, the lofty column, or Rosa- 
 mond's well and its attendant beauties. 
 
 THE TEMPLE OF DIANA 
 Occupies a fine position, and is a handsome struc- 
 ture, designed by Sir William Chambers, not 
 unworthy of the Gardens. Four pillars, with 
 Ionic capitals grace its front, and on its pediment 
 is the following dedicatory inscription in Greek 
 Characters — 
 
 APT E MI At. 
 A T P I A-I A A I. 
 OPE2TI A A I. 
 
 To the Ionian, rural, Mountain-raging Diana." 
 
 On the back of the interior, in a central medal- 
 lion, is a representation of Hippolytus presenting 
 a wreath of flowers to the Goddess Diana, in bas 
 relief. Connected with this, by means of festoons, 
 are two other medallions, charged with a copy of 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 51 
 
 verses from the Hippolytus of Euripides, and the 
 annexed translation of them : — 
 
 To thee, bright Goddess, these fair flowers I bring, 
 
 A chaplet woven from th' untainted mead, 
 
 Thy cool sequester'd haunt, where never yet 
 
 Shepherd approach'd ; where the rude hind ne'er heaved 
 
 Th* unhallow'd ax : nor voice nor sound is heard, 
 
 Save the low murmuring of the vernal bee. 
 
 The day spring from above the dew distils 
 
 Genial and mild, from the pure stream exhaPd, 
 
 On every fragrant herb and favourite flower. 
 
 We might linger in these delightful retreats for 
 months without weariness, and explore them 
 without exhausting their interest. We must, 
 however bid them a reluctant adieu, and, ap- 
 proaching the western front of the Palace, which 
 from no other quarter appears more grand and 
 majestic, we retire, as we entered, by the stairs 
 at its south-western angle. 
 
 THE PUBLIC GARDENS. 
 
 An excellent gravel walk, now conducts us for 
 some space, in a southern direction, having the 
 Private Gardens immediately on our right hand, 
 and on our left the fine open lawn, in front of 
 the Palace, adorned with clumps and noble trees. 
 Gradually, however, but now at a considerable 
 distance, we recross the Palace, catching, at in- 
 tervals, views of the south front, thrown into vari- 
 
52 A GUIDE TO 
 
 ous perspective ; and, in the opposite direction, of 
 the spire of Handborough church, of Bladon and 
 its tower, the lofty woods of Botley, and the hills 
 of Beckley and White Horse, the latter elevating 
 themselves in the distant back ground. The pros- 
 pect, as we advance, is perpetually diversified in 
 the most agreeable manner, not merely by the 
 change of our relative position, but by what artists 
 denominate accidents — the brilliancy of the sun or 
 his obscuration by some passing cloud, &c. In- 
 deed every season lends its peculiar charm, and 
 every hour of the day confers a special interest on 
 the scene. 
 
 "We now arrive at the Arboretum, thickly 
 planted with a mixture of evergreens and decidu- 
 ous tress, many of great rarity and beauty. It is 
 intersected with several paths of turf, from the ex- 
 tremities of some of which the artist and the 
 sketcher may select subjects not unworthy of their 
 attention. The two venerable and highly pic- 
 turesque oaks, with riven trunks and mantling ivy, 
 near the northern angle of the Kitchen Gardens, 
 have afforded subjects for the pencil, on many 
 occasions ; and, no doubt, have .occupied their 
 station long enough to witness the comparatively 
 modern origin of all around them. Time, how- 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 53 
 
 ever, is slowly, but surely doing its office, though 
 they may yet survive many storms, and secure the 
 admiration of the visitor for years to come. The 
 few spruce firs in this locality are perfect speci- 
 mens in their kind : towering aloft with their 
 gradually tapering tops, their lower branches 
 sweep and rest upon the ground, neither disfigur- 
 ed by any injudicious application of the pruning 
 knife, nor injured by the ravages of cattle or 
 decay. Here, oft-times the doves coo in the lofty 
 branches, and our sweetest songsters of the woods 
 pour out their richest melody. Altogether this is 
 a delicious contemplative spot, to the charms of 
 which the neighbouring rustic edifice, and its con- 
 tiguous little sheet of water, stored with appro- 
 priate aquatic plants, are important contributors. 
 
 Of the Kitchen Gardens, which we have just 
 passed, some idea may be formed on looking 
 through the gate which connects them with the 
 Arboretum. They occupy a space of not less than 
 twelve acres. Fruit Trees, neatly trained, cover 
 the lofty walls. Hot Houses and Conservatories 
 come in aid of our less genial climate ; and, in 
 short, every culinary requisite, and delicacy of 
 the dessert, are reared in these gardens in perfec- 
 tion and abundance. The whole of these Build- 
 ings were erected by the present Duke. 
 
 H 
 
54 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 THE AVIARY. 
 
 This edifice consists of two detached wings without 
 any connecting centre, and forms a kind of inter- 
 rupted crescent. It occupies a retired, but not 
 unembellished spot, and is stocked principally 
 with gold and silver Pheasants. Not far from its 
 position, is a pleasing vista, through which the fine 
 tapering spire of Kidlington Church, backed by 
 the hills of Buckinghamshire, is a striking object. 
 Threading our way through noble trees of venera- 
 ble aspect, with the Park and its fine forest timber 
 immediately on our right hand, we reach a 
 structure which will be contemplated with feelings 
 of interest by all, who can appreciate domestic 
 virtues in a sovereign, and distinguished loyalty 
 and affection in a subject : — we mean the 
 
 TEMPLE OF HEALTH. 
 Corinthian capitals embellish this edfice, and in a 
 tablet of polished marble, over which is a beautiful 
 medallion of George the Third, is the following 
 inscription, which sufficiently explains the circum- 
 stance under which it was erected : 
 
 DEO MAXIMO CONSERVATORY 
 ET PRQVIDENTI^E DIVINJE : 
 OB RECUPERATAM GEORGII TERTII, 
 REGIS OPTIMI, PIENTISSIMI SALUTEM ; 
 HOC MARMOR 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 55 
 
 GE0RGIUS DEX MARLBURIENSIS 
 EXPLETO DESIDER10, VOLIQUE COMPOS^ 
 IN ALIQUOD GRATI ANIMI TESTIMONIUM 
 L^ETUS, LUBENSQUE DEDICAVIT. 
 ANNO SOLUTIS HUMANJE 
 MDCCLXXXIX. 
 
 Our circuit of the Gardens is now nearly com- 
 plete. We approach again the eastern front of 
 Blenheim ; again catch sight of the tower of 
 Woodstock, the Triumphal Arch, and the Ducal 
 Column ; and, through the same door by which 
 we gained admission, terminate our inspection of 
 the ornamental grounds of Blenheim, feeling that 
 we have indeed traversed C€ a perfect Paradise." 
 
 THE PARK. 
 The Park of Blenheim is of unrivalled magnifi- 
 cence. Nothing can be more happy than the 
 undulations of its grounds ; the beauty and variety 
 of its walks, rides, and drives ; the fine views, 
 internal and external, which it commands ; and 
 the several capital objects which adorn it. Its 
 circumference is about fourteen miles, and its 
 area about three thousand acres, but its real 
 boundary is generally concealed from view by a 
 belt of trees, broken and varied, however, in its 
 outline towards the park, by clumps and groups 
 of trees, so as to avoid stiffness and too great 
 uniformity. 
 
56 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 The extent of his excursion, and the course 
 which the visitor will take, in viewing the park^ 
 will be regulated by the time at his disposal, and 
 other circumstances. But the ride of somewhat 
 more than three miles, from the Triumphal Gate, 
 at the entrance, in the direction of Bladon, leading 
 over the New Bridge, towards the High Lodge, 
 returning by the Column and the Grand Bridge 
 in front of Blenheim, will give an opportunity of 
 seeing the principal objects and beauties of the 
 park, and afford no mean idea of its magnificence 
 and many charming features. Taking this route, 
 as is usual with visitors, after crossing the Mall, 
 and leaving behind the splendid prospects, on the 
 right hand, which we enjoy up to this point, the 
 road conducts, for some distance, through a fine 
 grove of noble elms. It then leads towards the 
 New Bridge through a more open district, afford- 
 ing pleasing glimpses of the Castle on the one 
 hand, and the village of Bladon, &c. on the other. 
 
 Near the New Bridge we catch sight of the ex- 
 treme south end of the Private Gardens ; and 
 scarcely have we passed over it before we are 
 gratified by a distant view of the foaming Cascade. 
 Again the road is imbosomed in the shade of 
 trees, and again we emerge to the fine open 
 country in the direction of Handborough, 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 57 
 
 Passing through Spring-lock Gate, and admiring 
 its neat and charming Lodge, newly erected, we 
 come in sight of the High Lodge, situate on the 
 most elevated spot of ground within the precincts 
 of the park, and commanding one of the most ex- 
 tensive and beautiful prospects, in which the City 
 of Oxford is a capital object. In the High Lodge 
 once lived, as Ranger of the Royal Park, and there 
 also died, Wilmot, Earl of Rochester, famed 
 for his wit, but sullied by his immorality, of 
 which, however, he happily lived to repent. 
 
 Leaving the High Lodge on our left, and bend- 
 ing our course towards the east, we presently 
 enjoy the most splendid and enchanting scenery, 
 in which, the Castle of Blenheim, the Column, 
 and Grand Bridge, backed by the town and tower 
 of Woodstock, are main and conspicuous objects. 
 Amidst the ever varying perspective of these, we 
 descend into the valley, and proceed towards the 
 Column, which, in itself, in the design of its 
 erection, and its commanding situation in full view 
 of the Palace, is deserving of particular notice. 
 It is of the Doric order ; the shaft finely fluted, 
 and surmounted by a colossal statue of the first 
 Duke of Marlborough, in a Roman dress, holding 
 in his right hand a figure of Victory, ready to 
 place a Crown upon his head, and in the other 
 
58 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 the General's baton 5 while a pair of Eagles are at 
 his feet. The Column is one hundred and thirty 
 feet high, and three sides of its square pedestal are 
 covered with extracts of Acts of Parliament, re- 
 lating to the grant of the manor of and the descent 
 of the title, &a On the side next Blenheim is 
 the following elegant and animated inscription, 
 descriptive of the character and exploits of the 
 hero, believed to be from the pen of Lord 
 
 BoLINGBROKE : 
 
 The Castle of BLENHEIM was founded by QUEEN ANNE 
 In the fourth year of her Reign, 
 In the year of the Christian JEra 
 One Thousand Seven Hundred and Five. 
 A Monument design'd to perpetuate the Memory of the 
 Signal Victory 
 Obtain' d over the French and Bavarians, 
 Near the Village of Blenheim, 
 On the Banks of the Danube, 
 By John, Duke of Marlborough, 
 The Hero, not only of his Nation, but of his Age : 
 Whose Glory was equal in the Council and in the Field : 
 Who, by Wisdom, Justice, Candour, and Address, 
 Reconcil'd various, and even opposite Interests ; 
 Acquired an Influence 
 Which no Rank, no Authority can give, 
 Nor any Force, but that of superior Virtue ; 
 Became the fixed important Centre, 
 Which united, in one common Cause, 
 The principal States of EUROPE ; 
 Who, by military Knowledge, and irresistible Valour, 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 59 
 
 In a long Series of uninterupted Triumphs, 
 Broke the Power of FRANCE, 
 When raised the highest, when exerted the most, 
 
 Rescued the Empire from Desolation : 
 Asserted and confirmed the Liberties of EUROPE. 
 
 S€ Philip, a Grand-son of the House of France, 
 united to the Interests, directed by the Policy, 
 supported by the Arms of that Crown, was placed 
 on the Throne of Spain. King William III. be- 
 held this formidable Union of two Great, and once 
 Rival Monarchies. At the End of a Life spent 
 in defending the Liberties of Europe, He saw 
 them in their greatest Danger. He provided for 
 their Security in the most effectual Manner. He 
 took the Duke of Marlborough into his Service. 
 
 " Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary 
 u To the States General of the United Provinces. 
 
 u The Duke contracted several Alliances, before 
 the Death of King William. He confirmed and 
 improved these, He contracted others, after the 
 Accession of Queen Anne : and re-united the Con- 
 federacy, which had been dissolved at the end oC 
 a former War, in a stricter and firmer League. 
 
 " Captain General and Commander in Chief 
 "Of the Forces, of Great Britain. 
 
60 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 " The Duke led to the Field the Army of the 
 Allies. He took with surprising rapidity Venlo, 
 Ruremonde, Stevenswaert, Leige. He extended 
 and secured the Frontiers of the Dutch. The 
 enemies whom he found insulting at the Gates of 
 Nimeghen, were driven to seek for shelter behind 
 their Lines. He forced Bonne, Huy, Limbourgh, 
 in another Campaign. He opened the Communi- 
 cation of the Rhine, as well as the Maes. He 
 added all the Country between these Rivers to 
 his former Conquests. 
 
 " The Arms of France, favoured by the Defec- 
 tion of the Elector of Bavaria, had penetrated into 
 the Heart of the Empire. This mighty Body lay 
 exposed to immediate Ruin. In that memorable 
 Crisis, the Duke of Marlborough led his Troops, 
 with unexampled Celerity, Secrecy, Order, from 
 the Ocean to the Danube. He saw, He attacked, 
 nor stopped, but to conquer the Enemy. He 
 forced the Bavarians, sustained by the French, in 
 their strong intrenchments at Schellenberg. He 
 passed the Danube. A second Royal Army, com- 
 posed of the best Troops of France, was sent to 
 re-inforce the first. That of the Confederates was 
 divided. With one part of it the Siege of In- 
 goldstadt was carried on : With the other, the 
 Duke gave Battle to the united strength of France 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 61 
 
 and Bavaria. On the second day of August, one 
 thousand seven hundred and four, He gained a 
 more glorious Victory than the Histories of any 
 Age can boast. The heaps of slain were dread- 
 full Proofs of his Valour : a Marshal of France, 
 whole Legions of French, his Prisoners, pro- 
 claimed his Mercy. Bavaria was subdued, Ratis- 
 bon, Augsbourgh, Ulm, Meminghen, all the 
 Usurpations of the Enemy were restored. From 
 the Danube, the Duke turned his victorious Arms 
 towards the Rhine, and the Moselle, Landau, 
 Treves, Traerbach, were taken. In the course of 
 one Campaign, the very Nature of the War was 
 changed, The Invaders of other States were re- 
 duced to defend their own. The Frontier of 
 France was exposed in its weakest Part to the 
 Efforts of the Allies. 
 
 " That He might improve this Advantage, that 
 He might push the Sum of Things to a speedy 
 Decision, the Duke of Marlborough led his Troops 
 early in the following Year once more to the 
 Moselle. They whom He had saved a few months 
 before, neglected to second Him now. They who 
 might have been his Companions in Conquest, 
 refused to join Him When He saw the generous 
 Designs He had formed frustrated by private In- 
 terest, by Pique, by Jealousy, He returned with 
 
 i 
 
62 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 speed to the Maes. He returned, and Fortune 
 and Victory returned with Him. Leige was re- 
 lieved : Huy retaken. The French, who had 
 pressed the Atmy of the States-General with 
 superior Numbers, retired behind Intrenchments 
 which they deemed impregnable. The Duke 
 forced these Intrenchments with inconsiderable 
 Loss, on the seventh day of July, 1705. He de- 
 feated a great Part of the Army which defended 
 them. The rest escaped by a precipitate Retreat 
 If Advantages proportionable to this Success were 
 not immediately obtained, let the Failure be as- 
 cribed to that Misfortune which attends most 
 Confederacies, a Division of Opinions where one 
 alone should judge, a Division of Powers where 
 one alone should command. The Disappointment 
 itself did Honour to the Duke. It became the 
 Wonder of Mankind how He could do so much 
 under those Restraints which had hindered Him 
 from doing more. 
 
 " Powers more absolute were given Him after- 
 wards. The Increase of his Powers multiplied 
 his Victories. At the opening of the next Cam- 
 paign, when all his Army was not Syet assembled, 
 when it was hardly known that He had taken the 
 Field, the Noise of his Triumphs was heard over 
 Europe. On the twelfth day of May, one 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 63 
 
 thousand seven hundred and six, He attacked the 
 French at Ramallies. In the space of two Hours 
 their whole Army was put to flight. The Vigour 
 and Conduct with which He improved the Success 
 were equal to those with which He gained it. 
 Louvain, Brussels, Malines, Liere, Ghent, Oude- 
 narde, Antwerp, Damme, Bruges, Courtray, 
 surrendered. Ostend, Menin, Dendermonde, 
 Aeth were taken. Brabant and Flanders were 
 recovered. Places which had resisted the greatest 
 Generals for Months, for Years ; Provinces dis- 
 puted for Ages, were the Conquests of a Summer. 
 
 " Nor was the Duke content to Triumph alone. 
 Solicitous for the general Interests, his Care ex- 
 tended to the remotest scenes of War, He chose 
 to lesson his own Army, that He might enable the 
 Leaders of other Armies to Conquer. To this it 
 must be ascribed, that Turin was relieved, ithe 
 Duke of Savoy reinstated, the French driven with 
 Confusion out of Italy. 
 
 " These Victories gave the Conferates an Op- 
 portunity of carrying the War on every side into 
 the Dominions of France, But She continued to 
 enjoy a kind of peaceful Neutrality in Germany. 
 From Italy She was once alarmed, and had no 
 more to fear. The entire Reduction of this Power, 
 whose Ambition had caused, whose strength sup- 
 
64 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 ported the War, seemed reserved to Him alone, 
 who had so triumphantly begun the glorious Work. 
 
 " The Barrier of France on the side of the Low- 
 Countries, had been forming for more than half a 
 Century. What Art, Power, Expense could do, 
 had been done, to render it impenetrable. Yet 
 here she was most exposed : For here the Duke of 
 Marlborough threatened to attack Her. 
 
 " To cover what they had gained by Surprise, 
 or had been yielded to them by Treachery, the 
 French marched to the banks of the Schelde. At 
 their Head were the Princes of the Blood, and 
 their most fortunate General, the Duke of Ven- 
 dome. Thus commanded, thus posted, they hoped 
 to check the Victor in his Course. Vain were 
 their Hopes. The Duke of Marlborough passed 
 the River in their Sight. He defeated their whole 
 Army. The Approach of Night concealed, the 
 Proximity of Ghent favoured their Flight. They 
 neglected nothing to repair their Loss, to defend 
 their Frontier. New Generals, new Armies ap- 
 peared in the Netherlands. All contributed to 
 enhance the Glory, none were able to retard the 
 Progress of the Confederate Armies. 
 
 " Lisle, the Bulwark of this Barrier, was beseig- 
 ed. A numerous Garrison, and a Marshal of 
 France, defended the Place. Prince Eugene of 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 65 
 
 Savoy commanded, the Duke of Marlborough 
 covered and sustained the seige. The Rivers 
 were seized, and the Communication with Holland 
 interrupted. The Duke opened new Communica- 
 tions with great Labour and great Art. Through 
 Countries over-run by* the Enemy, the necessary 
 Convoys arrived in Safety. One alone was attack- 
 ed. The troops which attacked it were beat. 
 The Defence of Lisle was animated by assurances 
 of Relief. The French assembled all their force. 
 They marched towards the Town. The Duke of 
 Marlborough offered them battle, without sus- 
 pending the Siege. They abandoned the Enter- 
 prise. They came to save the Town: They were 
 Spectators of its Fall. 
 
 € * From this Conquest the Duke hastened to 
 others. The Posts taken by the Enemy on the 
 Schelde were surprised. That River was passed 
 the second Time, and, notwithstanding the great 
 Preparations made to prevent it, without oppo- 
 sition. Brussels, beseiged by the Elector of Ba- 
 varia, was relieved. Ghent surrendered to the 
 Duke in the middle of a Winter remarkably 
 severe. An Army, little inferior to his own, 
 marched out of the Place. 
 
 " As soon as the season of the Year permitted 
 him to open another Campaign, the Duke beseiged 
 
66 A GUIDE TO BLENHEIM. 
 
 and took Tournay. He invested Mons. Near this 
 City, the French Army, covered by thick Woods, 
 defended by treble Intrenchments, waited to 
 molest, nor presumed to offer Battle. Even this 
 was not attempted by them with impunity. On 
 the last day of August, one thousand seven hun- 
 dred and nine, the Duke attacked them in their 
 Camp. All was employed, nothing availed against 
 the Resolution of such a General, against the 
 Fury of such Troops. The Battle was bloody : 
 The Event decisive. The Woods were pierced : 
 The Fortifications trampled down. The Enemy 
 fled. The Town was taken. 
 
 " Doway, Bethune, Aire, St. Venant, Bouchain, 
 underwent the same Fate in two succeeding Years. 
 Their vigorous Resistance could not save them. 
 The Army of France durst not attempt to relieve 
 them. It seemed preserved to defend the Capital 
 of the Monarchy. 
 
 " The Prospect of this extreme Distress was 
 neither distant nor dubious. The French acknow- 
 ledged their Conqueror, and sued for Peace. 
 
 " These are the Actions of the Duke of MARLBOROUGH, 
 Performed in the compass of a few Years, 
 Sufficient to adorn the Annals of Ages. 
 The Admiration of other Nations 
 Will be conveyed to latest Posterity, 
 In the Histories even of the Enemies of BRITAIN. 
 
BRIEF HISTORY OF FIRST 
 
 6T 
 
 The Sense which the BRITISH Nation had 
 Of his transcendent Merit 
 was expressed 
 
 In the most solemn, most effectual, most durable manner, 
 
 The Acts of PARLIAMENT inscribed on this Pillar 
 Shall stand as long as the BRITISH Name and Language 
 last, 
 
 Illustrious Monument, 
 Of MARLBOROUGH'S Glory, 
 and, 
 
 Of BRITAIN'S Gratitude. 
 
 The illustrious nobleman, in whose honour this 
 Column was erected, was the eldest son of Sir 
 Winston Churchill, and was born at Ashe, in 
 Devonshire, in the year 1650 ; he commenced his 
 military career as an ensign in the guards when 
 he was about 16 years of age. In 1672 he was a 
 Captain of Grenadiers in a regiment commanded 
 by James, Duke of Monmouth, and distinguished 
 himself so much in the campaign against the 
 Dutch and at the siege of Nimeguen, that he was 
 particularly noticed by the celebrated Marshal 
 Turenne, who bestowed on him the name of the 
 handsome Englishmen : and, at the reduction of 
 Maestricht, the French King thanked him for his 
 behavionr at the head of the line, and assured 
 himhe would acquaint his Sovereign with it. 
 
 His gallant conduct obtained him the post of 
 
68 
 
 DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH. 
 
 Lieutenant-Colonel; but the war with the Dutch 
 having terminated, he passed his time chiefly at 
 court. In 1679 he attended the Duke of York 
 to the Netherlands, and through all his peregri- 
 nations, till he was suffered again to reside in 
 London. While he waited upon the Duke in 
 Scotland he had a regiment of dragoons given 
 him, and shortly after, in 1681, married Sarah, 
 daughter and co-heir of Richard Jennings, Esq. 
 of Sandridge, in Hertfordshire, and, by this match, 
 strengthened the interest he had already at court. 
 On Dec. 21, 1682, he was created Baron Churchill 
 of Eymouth, in Scotland, and the next year, being 
 now a General Officer, he obtained the command 
 of the 1st regiment of Dragoon Guards, then 
 newly raised. He was continued in all his posts 
 upon the accession of James II., who nominated 
 him ambassador to the court of France to notify- 
 that event : on his return his Lordship walked, as 
 one of the Lords of the bed-chamber, at his Ma- 
 jesty's coronation, and in May following, was 
 created a peer of England, by the title of Baron 
 Churchill, of Sandridge, in Hertfordshire. 
 
 In June, being then Lieutenant-General of His 
 Majesty's forces, he was ordered into the West to 
 suppress Monmouth's rebellion, being next in 
 command to Lewis Duras, Earl of Feversham. 
 
BRIEF HISTORY OF FIRST 
 
 69 
 
 When the Prince of Orange landed in 1685, he 
 was amongst the first who went over to his High- 
 ness ; and, in the convention, voted for the vacancy 
 of the throne, and for filling it with the Prince 
 and Princess of Orange. After their being de- 
 clared King and Queen, Lord Churchill was 
 advanced to the rank of Earl of Marlborough ; a 
 title which seems to have been chosen on account 
 of a family connection with the last Earls of that 
 name. The same year he was sent to command 
 the English forces in the Netherlands, under 
 Prince "Waldeck, General of the Dutch troops, 
 who, speaking in his commendation to King Wm. 
 declared " That he saw more into the heart of war 
 in a day than some Generals in many years " He 
 served the King also in Ireland and in Flan&ers, 
 but, in 1692, upon a surmise of an insurrection in 
 England, he was divested of all his employment, 
 and apprehended by a warrant from the privy 
 council, and together, with the Earl of Hunting- 
 don, sent prisoner to the Tower, from whence he 
 was shortly after released : the reason of his com- 
 mitment has never been fully understood ; during 
 Queen Mary's life, however, he kept at a distance 
 from court, attending principally with his lady on 
 the Princess Anne. 
 
 Upon Queen Mary's death he was restored to 
 
 K 
 
70 
 
 DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH. 
 
 favour ; and, in June, 1698, appointed by the 
 King, governor to the Duke of Gloucester, with 
 this extraordinary compliment — " My Lord, make 
 him but what you are, and my nephew will be all 
 I wish to see him." 
 
 When King William was forming the grand 
 alliance, he declared the Earl of Marlborough, on 
 June 1, 1701, General of Foot, and Commander- 
 in-Chief of all his forces in Holland ; and also, 
 on the 28th of that month, constituted him am- 
 bassador and plenipotentiary for the negociations 
 carrying on at the Hague. 
 
 Queen Anne succeeding King William on 
 March 8, 1702, appointed his lordship, on the 
 15th, Captain-General of all her forces in Eng- 
 land, and of those employed abroad in conjunction 
 with her allies ; and, on the 28th, nominated him 
 ambassador extraordinary to the States general. 
 War was declared against France and Spain, May 
 4 ; the general issue of which, and the share the 
 Duke had in the glorious result, is ample detailed 
 in the foregoing inscription on the monumental 
 column. 
 
 The history of ten eventful campaigns, evinces 
 that nothing was expected from him that he did 
 not perform ; and that there was not a single 
 accomplishment of a General, in which he did not 
 
A GUIDE TO BLENHEIM. 
 
 71 
 
 excel. His comprehensive and various capacity- 
 was equally adapted to complicated and detached 
 objects. In the several departments of plan and 
 stratagem, of enterprize and action, he was alike 
 successful. The general arrangement of the cam- 
 paign, and the disposition which he made in the 
 day of battle : the choice of ground ; his composure 
 and presence of mind in the heat of an engage- 
 ment ; his improvement of victory, and his ready 
 expedients under bad fortune — for a defeat he 
 never knew — were all evidences of such a diver- 
 sity of talent, and such a stupendous pitch of 
 military genius, as never were surpassed by those 
 of the "greatest commanders in ancient or modern 
 times. 
 
 From the commanding situation occupied by the 
 Column, the eye ranges freely to a great distance 
 on every side ; and, while the covers, in and 
 around the Park contain pheasants, and other 
 game in abundance, we are here almost sure to be 
 gratified by some fine specimen of the noble 
 animal, 
 
 " Quod proebet lautis divitibusque dapes;" 
 
 some 
 
 " Well grown stag, whose antler's rise 
 High o'er his front," 
 
 and bringing forcibly to mind the motto " Ramos a. 
 
72 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 Cornua Cervi," upon the arms of the neighbour- 
 ing borough of Woodstock. Whole herds of deer, 
 in fact, continually sweep past us in our rambles 
 through the park ; are seen standing gracefully at 
 gaze : reposing quietly in groups, or, grazing, 
 peacefully' in the distance. It is not, however, 
 the pampered palate of the wealthy epicure only, 
 which is regaled by the luxurious haunch from 
 the numerous herds of Blenheim. Since the ac- 
 cession of his present Grace to the Marlborough 
 honours^ hundreds of deer have been slaughtered 
 in a single season, and distributed among the poor, 
 and the industrious labourers of the surrounding 
 villages, who have thus been enabled to enjoy a 
 delicacy at their tables, to the relish of which they 
 might otherwise have remained entire strangers. 
 
 The easy declivity of a beautiful lawn conducts 
 us from the column towards the Grand Bridge, a 
 short distance to the west of which, on the north 
 side of the lake, is the celebrated 
 
 ROSAMOND'S WELL. 
 
 Here a fine and never-failing spring of water, 
 which, if not " health to the sick/ 5 is, doubtless, 
 very frequently " solace to the swain," gushes 
 out near the bottom of a precipice, faced with ma- 
 sonry, and backed by a dense clump of beeches, 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 when its cool and limped waters are almost imme- 
 diately received in a square basin of freestone,, 
 enclosed by iron pallisades, and thence conveyed 
 by a subterraneous passage into the adjoining lake. 
 
 Of the Bower of the fair, but frail Rosamond, 
 concerning which curiosity is naturally excited on 
 visiting this spot, no authentic record remains, and 
 this spring, which it is thought by some, must 
 have supplied her bath, does not appear to us well 
 calculated for such a purpose. Neither are there 
 now any visible traces of the Labyrinth, in which 
 she is supposed to have been concealed by her 
 royal lover, Henry II., and which formed, as it is 
 said, a communication between her bower and the 
 ancient Palace. 
 
 From the vicinity of Rosamond's Well, the en- 
 graving which forms our frontispiece, was taken, 
 and the north front of the Palace, has here, a very 
 fine and magnificent appearance. 
 
 Near a cedar, about midway between the well 
 and the bridge, we have one of the best echoes 
 now in the park, the effect of which depends, in a 
 considerable degree, upon the state of the atmos- 
 phere and other circumstances. That, mentioned 
 by Dr. Plott in his Natural History of Oxford- 
 shire, which, in a calm day, would repeat seven- 
 teen syllables, and by night twenty, has almost 
 
74 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 entirely lost its powers. From a curious sketch 
 he has given in illustration of it, in the work 
 just named, it would appear, that the " Centrum 
 Phonicum," or speaker's place, was a little to the 
 north of the Triumphal Gate at the entrance of the 
 park, and the Centrum " Phonocampticum," or 
 echoe's place, in the opposite elevation towards 
 the High Lodge. 
 
 About the same distance to the east of the 
 bridge, that Rosamond's Well is to the west of it, 
 and on the same side of the lake, was the site of 
 the ancient Palace, or Manor House, once the fre- 
 quent resort of royalty, and possessing an increased 
 interest to the generality of visitors, in connection 
 with Sir Walter Scott's novel of " Woodstock/' 
 several of whose richest scenes are laid here. 
 Within its walls too, history informs us, that the 
 Princess Elizabeth, afterwards Queen of England, 
 was some time confined by her sister Queen Mary : 
 and that a fire, kindled in her bed room by de- 
 sign or accident, on one occasion placed her life 
 in jeopardy. While kept in durance here, she felt 
 her painful situation keenly ; and, at the sight of 
 a milk-maid singing in passing the window of her 
 prison, she is said to have shed tears and expressed 
 a wish that a condition equally humble and happy 
 had been her own. While immured here she 
 
BLENHEIM. 75 
 
 composed the following verses, which were written 
 with charcoal on the window-shutter of her prison- 
 room. Whatever may be thought of their spirit 
 or poetry, they will no doubt be perused with in- 
 terest as the early production of an afflicted 
 Princess, whose subsequent reign was distinguish- 
 ed by great wisdom and glory. 
 
 Oh, fortune ! how thy restless wavering state 
 Hath fraught with cares my troubled witt, 
 Witness this present prison, whither fate 
 Could bear me, and the joys I quit. 
 Thou causedst the guiltie to be losed 
 From bandes wherein are innocents inclosed ; 
 Causing the guiltles to be straites reserved, 
 And freeing those that death well deserved ; 
 But by her malice can be nothing wroughte ; 
 So God send to my foes all they have thoughte. 
 
 Elizabethe Prisoner. 
 
 Anno Dom. 1555. 
 
 Not a vestige of the ancient Palace now remains r 
 its foundations have been removed ; the revelry 
 which, doubtless, reverberated through its massive 
 walls, is now silenced, and a pair of large Syca- 
 more trees, too transient and unenduring for such 
 a charge, mark the spot where it stood. Turning 
 away our steps from these objects, which, if par- 
 taking a somewhat mournful character, are yet 
 calculated to produce salutary reflections, we 
 advance to 
 
76 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 THE GRAND BRIDGE, 
 
 An important adjunct of the park, whose two 
 portions, the home and high park, it connects with 
 equal elegance and utility, affording a noble ap- 
 proach to Blenheim from the north, and being in 
 excellent keeping with the lake, or as it is some- 
 times called the river, which it spans. It is a 
 substantial building of three arches, the cord of 
 the principal one in the centre, measures one 
 hundred and one feet. Between the central and 
 side arches are square projecting piers, which 
 break the continuous line of the bridge, in the 
 interior of which are small rooms, with open 
 windows and circular topped doors, accessible from 
 
 THE LAKE. 
 
 From the top of the Bridge the Lake is seen to 
 great advantage ; from no other station, perhaps, 
 do we obtain a more complete and satisfactory- 
 view of this highly ornamental feature of the 
 park. Its principal source and supply is the river 
 Glyme, which, rising near Heythrop Park, and 
 flowing past Kiddington, Glympton, and Wootton, 
 after receiving one or two small tributary streams, 
 enters the park, on its eastern side, between Old 
 and New Woodstock, through a bridge of seven 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 77 
 
 small arches. A happy genius, " Capability" 
 Brown, suggested the grand idea of erecting a 
 barrier at the lower extremity of the lake, and of 
 causing the waters of the Glyme, by that means, 
 to accumulate and expand, converting a mere 
 meandering [thread of a rivulet, into one of the 
 finest artificial sheets of water in the kingdom ; 
 harmonizing it with the Grand Bridge, beneath 
 whose stately structure it before flowed in almost 
 ridiculous disproportion ; and, at the same time 
 producing the Cascade, itself a capital and appro- 
 priate embellishment. 
 
 The lake is well supplied with different kinds 
 of fish, some of which attain a large size. The 
 portion of it between the Seven-arched and the 
 Grand Bridge, it may be remarked, occupies a 
 space of about ninety acres, while the remaining 
 portion between the last mentioned bridge and 
 the Cascade, is stated to be two hundred and fifty. 
 The shape of these two portions, and also of 
 their respective shores, is very similar, and bears 
 a considerable resemblance to that of the Roman 
 capital letter S. At the first bend of the eastern 
 portion, next the Column, is Queen Pool, so 
 called from Phillippa, Queen of Edward III., 
 where finely imbosomed in a highly picturesque 
 clump of trees, is the Fisherman's Cottage, &c. 
 
 L 
 
78 
 
 A GUIDE TO 
 
 In the corresponding bend of the expanse below 
 the Grand Bridge, the water stretches up the 
 valley of Coombe -bottom ; and, its termination in 
 that direction being concealed from the eye, imagi- 
 nation has room for exercise, and, not unnaturally, 
 conjures up the idea of some noble river, here 
 pouring in its copious streams to supply the lake. 
 Towards the cascade, the lake seems to be em- 
 bayed, and its silver-like surface, particularly on 
 a bright day, set, as it were, in the rich frame 
 work of the Private Gardens, and the fine forest 
 trees of the High Park, which are feathered down 
 to its very margin, has a pleasing effect. 
 
 Falling over the Cascade, the water assumes a 
 canal-like aspect, which, passing under the New 
 Bridge, it maintains for some distance, till ap- 
 proaching the village of Bladon, and bending its 
 course through delightful scenery, it once more 
 expands to a considerable breadth, is precipitated 
 over a second cascade, and mixes with the Even- 
 lode, the southern boundary of the park. At this 
 point the Glyme, which under skilful management 
 has so largely contributed to the embellishment of 
 Blenheim, loses it name, and taking that of its 
 new associate, flows gently with increased volume 
 to join the celebrated Isis. 
 
BLENHEIM. 
 
 79 
 
 We have thus in a summary manner, directed 
 attention to the leading features and attractions of 
 Blenheim, omitting, however, all mention of num * 
 berless objects and scenes of great beauty and 
 interest, which indeed, could not be particulariz- 
 ed, much less detailed, except in a work of several 
 volumes We cannot, however, conclude this 
 description without the expression of a sentiment 
 which we doubt not, will find a ready echo from 
 the gratified visitors of Blenheim. The well- 
 merited rewards which the British nation con- 
 ferred on her distinguished and successful general, 
 the first Duke of Marlborough, are received again 
 with interest from his descendants. Under the 
 liberal indulgence of his present Grace, the public 
 not only enjoy the privilege of inspecting the 
 Palace, its invaluable treasures of paintings, and 
 other works of art, but, in its Park and Gardens 
 may contemplate the charms of nature improved to 
 the utmost : a perfection of beauty and grandeur 
 attained, to the production of which, on so magni- 
 ficent a scale, few private individuals are equal ; 
 and which, but for Blenheim, few perhaps, would 
 have imagined possible, and fewer still have 
 witnessed. 
 
80 
 
 BRIEF ACCOUNT 
 
 NEW WOODSTOCK. 
 
 New Woodstock, commonly styled Wood- 
 stock, without any prefix or addition, being the 
 general approach to Blenheim, and very intimately 
 connected with it in other respects, seems to claim 
 a brief notice on the present occasion. 
 
 It is pleasantly situated on the elevated ground 
 south of the river Glyme, which, flowing through 
 the valley between it and Old Woodstock, pre- 
 sently enters the park of Blenheim, and contri- 
 butes essentially to the beauty of that noble scene. 
 
 It is in the County of Oxford, and immediately 
 contiguous to the eastern side of the park of 
 Blenheim. 
 
 Though less ancient, as its name implies, than 
 Old Woodstock, its near neighbour, it is neverthe- 
 less of great antiquity ; and, as appears from the 
 rolls of Parliament, was a borough by prescription 
 long antecedent to the period of its first incorpo- 
 ration under the charter of Henry the VI. The 
 charter it received from Henry the Sixth was fol- 
 lowed by several others, the last being that of 
 James the Second. But the charter under which 
 the Corporation now act was granted by Charles 
 the Second, the one forced upon the Borough in 
 
OF WOODSTOCK. 
 
 81 
 
 the fourth of James the Second having been 
 speedily cancelled by proclamation, and that of 
 Charles the Second revived. 
 
 The Corporation consists of the Mayor, and four 
 Aldermen, a High Steward, Recorder, two Cham- 
 berlains, Town-clerk and fifteen capital Burgesses, 
 in all twenty-five, besides an indefinite number of 
 Freemen. These last-named acquire their privi- 
 lege by birth, apprenticeship, or the gift of the 
 Corporation, and the Mayor and Chamberlains are 
 chosen annually on the Monday next before the 
 feast of St. Matthew. 
 
 Previous to the Reform Act, Woodstock re- 
 turned two Members to Parliament. Since that 
 enactment, it has been entitled but to one repre- 
 sentative, whose constituency is not confined, as 
 formerly, to the freemen of the borough ; but, 
 besides such of these as have not forfeited the 
 privilege, includes also the ten pound inhabitant 
 house-holders of a district extending much beyond 
 the limits of the ancient borough. Except aa 
 relates to the representation in parliament, the 
 constitution and privileges of this borough remain 
 unaffected by the Reform Bill. 
 
 Woodstock at one time was famous for its pro- 
 ductions in steel, which were wrought and polish- 
 ed in the most exquisite manner, and commanded 
 
82 
 
 BRIEF ACCOUNT 
 
 almost incredible prices. The process, however, 
 was too expensive to compete with the machinery 
 of Birmingham and Sheffield, and this branch of 
 its trade in now entirely annihilated. Its chief 
 and distinguished existing trade is in gloves, of 
 which large quantities are manufactured in the 
 town and neighbourhood for exportation, as well as 
 as home consumption. For summer wear, gloves 
 made of kid and some other light fabrics may 
 perhaps deserve a preference ; but for winter and 
 the colder portions of the year the genuine Wood- 
 stock glove has neither substitute nor rival ; and 
 those who have once experienced its comfort and 
 superiority will not willingly be without a supply. 
 Few, indeed, of the numerous parties visiting 
 Blenheim omit the opportunity of making pur- 
 chases of this desirable article at one or other of 
 the respectable glove shops of the Borough, or 
 depart without securing a portion of the peculiarly 
 neat and tasteful fancy articles, such as tippets, 
 reticules, purses, &c. made of the leather manu- 
 factured here, and designed more particularly for 
 the accommodation of ladies, with whom they find 
 universal favour, and for whom they constitute 
 most appropriate and welcome presents. 
 
 The streets of Woodstock, recently paved 
 with Yorkshire stones, are wide and commodious, 
 
OF WOODSTOCK. 
 
 83 
 
 and the houses, mostly of stone, are, in general, 
 well and substantially built. Its appearance is 
 singularly neat and cleanly. Its population ac- 
 cording to the last census was 1412, and its inha- 
 bited houses about 270. 
 
 The Coat Armour, Crest and Supporters, of 
 the Borough, were thus emblazoned, in 1574. 
 
 Arms. In a field, gules, three stags' heads 
 caboched, and the stock of an oak tree in base, 
 argent, a border of the second charged with oak 
 leaves, vert. 
 
 Crest. On the helmet waper issuing out of a 
 coronet ducal, an oak tree, proper. 
 
 Supporters. Two wild men with their clubs, 
 proper, mantled gules, doubled, argent. 
 
 Motto. Ramosa Cornui Cervi. 
 
 Its public buildings are not numerous, nor, 
 generally speaking, of remarkable beauty or 
 interest. 
 
 The Parish Church, or rather Chapel, the mo- 
 ther church being at Bladon, is a commodious and 
 substantial structure, but the several parts of it are 
 most heterogeneous, and of very different dates. 
 The tower, considered by itself, is chaste and neat, 
 and form an agreeable feature in the landscape : 
 but it does not, perhaps, sufficiently harmonize 
 with the original structure. It is furnished with a 
 
84 
 
 BRIEF ACCOUNT 
 
 clock, a ring of eight excellent bells, and a set of 
 musical and pleasing chimes, playing at intervals 
 of four hours, and having a distinct and peculiar 
 tune for each day of the week. It was erected at 
 the expense of a former Duke of Marlborough ; 
 and, indeed, frequent traces of the munificence of 
 that distinguished family and of their kindly feel* 
 ing towards Woodstock are to be^ met with in the 
 borough. On the south side of the Chapel, which 
 exhibits evident marks of antiquity, is an interest- 
 ing though mutilated specimen of the Circular 
 Norman Arch, originally a door-way, but now 
 closed with masonry. The north front, which is 
 of recent date, is in the worst taste that can be 
 imagined, and the pulling it down and rebuilding 
 it in an appropriate style, would be a commenda- 
 ble deed entitling its author to public gratitude. 
 The interior is well pewed, and capable of seating 
 a large congregation. It contains a tolerable organ, 
 and three clustered pillars surmounted by heads of 
 grotesque character, supporting pointed arches — 
 objects possessing some charms for the antiquary. 
 
 Few of its monuments are of much public inter- 
 est. The population of Woodstock are principally 
 of the Established Church, but various shades of 
 dissent are intermingled, and there are two small 
 dissenting meeting houses, in one of which the 
 
OF WOODSTOCK. 
 
 85 
 
 Wesleyan Methodists, and in the other the Bap- 
 tists hold their religious assemblies. 
 
 The Town Hall, another instance of the muni- 
 ficence of the Marlborough family,) was built after 
 a design by Sir William Chambers, and occupies 
 a conspicuous and advantageous position in the 
 borough, of which it is one of the most striking 
 ornaments. It is of hewn stone, and though more 
 especially oppropriated to the use of the Mayor 
 and the exigencies of the corporation, is liberally 
 granted to the public on every fitting occasion. 
 
 Almost adjoining the Town Hall is the Market 
 House, not much used for the purposes of its pro • 
 fessed destination. Its turrit contains a good clock, 
 and a part of the building, not required as a 
 Market House, is employed as a store house for 
 coal, to be retailed to the poor at a moderate rate, 
 in seasons of scarcity and high prices. But though 
 little business is transacted in the Market House, 
 the town is well supplied with provisions, and on 
 Tuesday, the principal market day, a considerable 
 quantity of corn usually changes hands. Several 
 fairs, too, are held in the course of the year, and 
 at some of these the attendance is numerous, and 
 large supplies of superior cheese are pitched and 
 disposed of. 
 
 Woodstock has to boast of a long list of charities 
 
 M 
 
86 
 
 BRIEF ACCOUNT 
 
 for the benefit of its poor ; most of these, carefully 
 enumerated in the report of the Charity Commis- 
 sioners, are under the management of the Corpo- 
 ration, by whom, it is but just to observe, they are 
 administered with disinterested care and fidelity. 
 
 Besides some other respectable educational 
 establishments, it has the advantage of a Grammar 
 School, founded by Richard Cornwell, who, by 
 will dated the 16th of May, 1583, bequeathed as 
 follows : — " I will and bequeath £300. to erect 
 a Free Grammar School in the Town of New 
 Woodstock, where I was born ; £100 for the 
 house, and £200 for to purchase lands for the 
 school and master, whom I would have to be a 
 good preacher of the word of God." "With the 
 money thus bequeathed several houses, &c. were 
 purchased, which eventually will doubtless pro- 
 duce a respectable salary for the master. At 
 present the remuneration available from this 
 source is insufficient for the services of a competent 
 teacher, and is made up by payments from the 
 scholars, who are generally the children of the 
 most respectable inhabitants of the town and its 
 vicinity. The school room is sufficiently large and 
 lofty, and adjoins the chancel of the church. 
 
 The education and clothing of the poorer classes 
 of children are partially provided for by the 
 
OF WOODSTOCK. 87 
 
 charities of Cocks and Johnson. The former of 
 these taking its rise from a purchase of a fortu- 
 nate lottery ticket by Sir Robert Cocks, the 
 proceeds of which was invested in land, is now 
 adequate to much more than its original design of 
 clothing and educating eight poor children, putting- 
 out one of the same apprentice, &c. unless the 
 poor house-keers not receiving collections within 
 the borough, who are entitled to the surplus, are 
 made the recipients of a far greater proportion 
 than seems to have been originally intended for 
 them. Of late this last-mentioned charity has not 
 been duly administered, but under the manage- 
 ment of the present Rector, Mr. St John, and 
 his coadjutors there is no doubt it will be properly 
 attended to, and its intentions fully carried out. 
 
 The greatest want, however, of the place, and 
 one which has been long and severely felt is the 
 want of National Schools. A want which is 
 now being supplied in a very liberal and effectual 
 manner. Through the exertions of a few indi- 
 viduals a Committee has been formed and a fund 
 raised, a beautiful site has been granted by His 
 Grace the Duke of Marlborough, on the right hand 
 side, just as we enter Woodstock from Oxford, and 
 a building containing Boys, Girls, and Infants' 
 Schools, and capable of accommodating 380 chil- 
 dren is in rapid progress. 
 
88 
 
 BRIEF ACCOUNT 
 
 This beautiful building is in the gothic style, 
 and, with its pointed gables, mullioned windows, 
 and clock tower of exquisite design, promises to 
 be at once an ornament to the town, a credit 
 to the Architect, and a source of incalculable 
 benefit to the rising generation. Mr. S. S. Teulon 
 is the architect who has given the designs for the 
 building, and Mr. Qtjarterman of St. Aldate's, 
 * Oxford, who is the Contractor, has executed them 
 in a manner calculated to reflect much credit on 
 local enterprise and talent. 
 
 On the opposite side, and separated from the 
 road only by a slip of garden ground, our atten- 
 tion is arrested by the Almshouses, 
 
 " neat, but void of state," 
 
 built and endowed by Caroline, Duches of Marl- 
 borough, in which the declining years of a few 
 females are made to glide past in comparative ease 
 and comfort. 
 
 Before we take leave of this branch of our sub- 
 ject, we must not omit the mention of Queen 
 Elizabeth, as one of the Benefactors of Woodstock. 
 Besides other instances of her royal favour, the 
 grant of the marsh, called Lee Pool, conferred 
 upon the Mayor and Commonalty by Henry VI. 
 was confirmed by her ; and though probably the 
 pool at that time was of comparatively small value, 
 
OF WOODSTOCK. 
 
 89 
 
 it is now become a highly fertile and productive 
 property, and contributes materially to the revenue 
 of the Corporation. 
 
 On the east side of Woodstock, and almost in 
 immediate contact, stands the Union Workhouse, 
 a substantial edifice, well adapted to its object, 
 where the destitute not only find food and shelter, 
 but meet, we have reason to believe, with more 
 humane treatment and attention than is experienc- 
 ed in some other of these not very popular asylums. 
 
 If Woodstock has not given birth to many men 
 of distinguished genius, its history is yet connect- 
 ed with several illustrious names. Among these we 
 may particularize that of Chaucer, " the father 
 of English, poetry," who for some time resided 
 here, and by his allusions to its sweet neighbour- 
 ing scenery in some of his poems, has certainly 
 conferred upon it a classic renoun. His residence 
 stood on the right hand in passing from Wood- 
 * stock into the quadrangle through which we ap- 
 proach the Triumphal Gate of Blenheim Park. 
 Of the folio volume of his works in M.S. said to 
 have been chained to a reading desk in his house, 
 and in existence the beginning of the last century 
 nothing remains. But the truth of this account 
 seems to be confirmed, and its memory till of late 
 authenticated and kept alive by the circumstance 
 
90 
 
 BRIEF ACCOUNT 
 
 that " Chaucer's book' 5 was mentioned in the title 
 deeds as being conveyed along with the property 
 in question. 
 
 But a few years ago the number of stage coaches 
 daily passing and repassing through Woodstock, 
 was very considerable. Of these however, all 
 have ceased to run, being compelled to yield to 
 the superior force of steam. Yet, notwithstanding 
 this, and the diversion of much of its wonted 
 traffic by modern railways, which, doubtless, has 
 seriously impaired the value of property in Wood- 
 stock, there are few inland places, offering to 
 persons, who can exercise the liberty of choice, 
 equal inducements to select them for a residence. 
 More railways than one, approaching it within 
 a moderate distance, are alreay completed, and 
 its means of transit to every part of the kingdom, 
 are still abundant. Its vicinity affords numerous 
 pleasing drives. Whilst its home walks, and the 
 inexhaustible variety of delightful rambles in 
 Blenheim Park, which may be reached in less 
 than five minutes from its remotest quarter, abound 
 in botanical riches, and entirely supersede the 
 want of a carriage, to persons who do not choose, 
 or cannot conveniently afford, to indulge in that 
 expensive luxury. As already stated, it is amply 
 
OF WOODSTOCK. 
 
 91 
 
 supplied with provisions, and contains, in addition 
 to several well-conducted and excellent Inns, re- 
 spectable shops, and tradesmen in nearly every 
 kind of business. Medical gentlemen and surgeons 
 of acknowledged skill and standing, reside within 
 its limits, though the purity of its air and the 
 salubrity of its situation, happily, render the aid of 
 the physician less requisite than in most other 
 places. To crown all, its neighbourhood is not 
 without good society, and the sociability, kindness 
 of disposition and hospitable character of its in- 
 habitants, are not to be surpassed. 
 
 " Ille terrarum mihi prseter omnes 
 Angulus ridet." 
 
 THE END. 
 
 ECCLES, PRINTER, WOODSTOCK, 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 PAGE 
 
 General Information 4 
 
 The Palace, &c 5 
 
 Triumphal Gate 10 
 
 Eastern Gate 14 
 
 The Grand North Front 16 
 
 East Front , 17 
 
 The Hall... 19 
 
 Bow Window Room 21 
 
 State Bed Room and the Billiard Room 22 
 
 The Breakfast Room 23 
 
 The Grand Cabinet 25 
 
 The Small Drawing Room . . 26 
 
 The Large Drawing Room. 28. 
 
 The Dining Room 29 
 
 The Saloon 31 
 
 First State Drawing Room 32 
 
 Second State Drawing Reom 33 
 
 Third State Drawing Room 34 
 
 The Library 35 
 
 The Chapel 37 
 
 Titian Room , 39 
 
 Private Gardens • • 39 
 
 Grand Fountain.., 46 
 
 Rock Gardens 49 
 
 Temple of Diana 50 
 
 Public Gardens 51 
 
 The Arboretum , 52 
 
 Avairy and the Temple of Health . 54 
 
 The Park 55 
 
 High Lodge and the Column 57 
 
 Brief History of the Life of first Duke of Marlborough 67 
 
 Rosamond's Well 72 
 
 Grand Bridge and the Lake, &c 76 
 
 .Brief Account of Woodstock < 80 
 
(9X1 5 a