A large 19th century brass bound and handled mahogany/teak maritime/seafarers' chest with ornate brass straps and handles , dimensions approx. 140 x 61 x 59cm Provenance, formally owned by Bishop Taylor Smith (Chaplin General to the forces and missionary) died at sea
Short History of The Right Reverend Bishop John Taylor Smith
Born 1860 Kendal , Attended Kendal Grammar School and went into partnership with J T Smith, Jewellers & Silversmiths on leaving school
Was keen on natural history and loved the outdoor life in Lake District including cycling on his Penny Farthing and at one stage held position of Chief Council of Cyclist Touring Club for Counties of Cumberland and Westmorland
1889 decided future was involved in church
1891-1897 Missionary work based in Freetown, Sierrra Leone 1895 Joined Ashanti Expedition on Gold Coast, before Prince Henry of Battenburg died he requested that John Taylor Smith travel to England to deliver his last message to his wife Prince Beatrice and her mother Queen Victoria , and he was invited to become honorary chaplain to Queen Victoria, regularly visiting Windsor, Buckingham Palace and Osborne House
1897 Ordained as Anglican Bishop of Sierra Leone
1901-1925 Chaplain General to Armed Forces, including during the First World War 1925 Retired but continued to travel worldwide as preacher and missionary
Bishop Taylor Smith visited Australia many times and in March 1938 whilst returning home on Ocean Liner Orion, he became ill, died and was buried at sea
More information and press cuttings available to view on request