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Saturday 24 September 2016

Saving the Admiral Cornwallis Gravestone

A famous ex-resident of Milford on Sea is Admiral William Cornwallis and 2019 sees the bicentenary of his death. 

Experts and enthusiasts in the navy of Nelson’s time are of the opinion that Cornwallis is hugely under-recognised for his contribution to the wars with France in the final years of the 18th and the early 19th centuries. Had he not commanded the blockade of the French channel ports with such efficiency, it is unlikely that Nelson would have been able to engage in, much less win, the Battle of Trafalgar.

His grave ledger has deteriorated. It is broken in two, the inscription is almost illegible and it has extensive lichen growth. It is in danger of further deterioration from ground moisture and mowing operations. 

Conservation and repair of the ledger will cost in the region of £3,000, including VAT. In addition, it is proposed that interpretation and information material be produced detailing Cornwallis’s naval career and achievements, his connection with Milford alongside those of John Whitby, Whitby’s widow and Admirals John Peyton and Robert Mann who are also buried in Milford on Sea.

It is anticipated that, in 2019, some form of rededication ceremony will be arranged with significant naval presence and media coverage. The Museum of Army Chaplaincy holds a set of memorial communion plate given by the Whitby’s daughter in memory of Admiral Cornwallis and it is hoped that this will be made available for display at the service.

The Milford on Sea Historical Record Society is therefore raising funds for the restoration of the Cornwallis and Peyton Memorials at All Saints Church, Milford on Sea.

People, Places and Things is a A talk by Chris Hobby and Bob Braid about Milford on Sea, which will be held on Saturday 22nd October at 7.30pm, at All Saints Church Hall, Milford on Sea.

Tickets are £5 (to include a drink and nibbles). Tickets available from The Village News, High Street, Milford on Sea, from Chris Hobby (01590 645164, hobbychristopher@gmail.com), and on the door.

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