It was always Mark’s dream to see the cemetery gates and railings painted black with the fleur de lis finials burnished in gold. Custodian of the military history of the cemetery, Mark was a painter and decorator by trade and the state of the cemetery railings was a source of professional frustration for him. Today the gates and railings reveal a motley coat of green and black paint, which came first is difficult to work out.
In 1885, just four years after the cemetery had opened, it would seem the railings were already in need of maintenance.
The Swindon Burial Board are desirous of receiving tenders for the following work:- Clean and Paint, with two coats of good oil paint, the whole of the iron fencing around the Cemetery; Paint twelve seats with three coats of good oil paint; Size and Varnish the outside of the chapel door.
For further Particulars, apply to the Caretaker, The Cemetery Lodge.
Tenders to be sent to me the undersigned, on or before the 11th day of May, 1885.
The Board do not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any Tender.
H.F. Townsend
42, Cricklade Street, Swindon, 22nd April, 1885.
The North Wilts Herald, Friday, April, 24, 1885.
Kent Road gate
Clifton Street gate
Clifton Street gate
Radnor Street gate
Dixon Street gate
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Radnor Street Cemetery 