“There must have been an important master mason behind the house’s design”

A Breath of Fresh Air: Williams’ The Country Houses of Shropshire

Gareth Williams’ The Country Houses of Shropshire is a welcome addition to the literature on the region’s architectural heritage.

The book offers a comprehensive and meticulously researched exploration of the county’s diverse country houses, from grand mansions to modest manor houses. One of its most significant contributions is its meticulous attention to detail, particularly in rectifying historical inaccuracies that have plagued previous accounts.

One such inaccuracy that Williams has admirably addressed is the long-standing misconception regarding the date of Soulton Hall. Previous works, including those by Pevsner and others, had erroneously attributed the hall’s construction to the 17th century. However, Williams’ thorough investigation has called this out:

Soulton… proclaims its presence by standing bolt upright, a tall brick box with Grinshill sandstone dressings and four regular stacks of chimneys, which further elevate the house amidst the north Shropshire plain.

The dating of the house has been misunderstood on account of the elaborate dated armorial doorcase which was added in 1668 to commemorate the marriage of the then owner, Thomas Hill (d. 1711)… Although the brickwork of the façade has clearly been disturbed to receive the stonework of the portal, the date of the house is often said to be wholly of 1668. The original build of the carcase, however, is evidently much earlier… Soulton… is of a form found at Doddington, Lincolnshire (1593–1600)… The north-facing entrance front shows an extraordinary confidence in its simplicity… There must have been an important master mason behind the house’s design; if only we knew more about the original build.

This correction not only sets the record straight but also offers a more accurate understanding of Soulton Hall’s place within the architectural landscape of Shropshire and England.

A Williams’ dedication to accuracy is evident throughout The Country Houses of Shropshire. The book is replete with detailed descriptions, historical context, and supporting evidence, demonstrating the author’s deep knowledge of the subject matter. This commitment to rigorous scholarship is essential for producing reliable and valuable historical works.

Gareth Williams’ The Country Houses of Shropshire is a must-read for anyone interested in the architectural history of the region. The book’s careful research, meticulous attention to detail, and correction of historical errors make it a valuable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts alike. Williams’ work serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing research and critical analysis in preserving and understanding our architectural heritage.