Towneley from A to Z
Towneley from A to Z
The oak tester bed on display in Long Gallery Bedroom 5 has been on loan from the Strachey family since 2001. The bed was on display at Towneley throughout the 19th century but was removed in 1902.
This bed was purchased from Todmorden Hall by Thomas Dunham Whitaker, author of the History of Whalley, who lived nearby at Holme in Cliviger. He wrote that it had been made for Saville Radcliffe (1582-1652) in 1615. Whitaker gave the bed to Charles Townley around 1802, probably as a thank you for Townley's help in the publishing of Whitaker's book. The following extract is from History of Whalley 2nd Edition p. 292 (1806).
"This magnificent Bed of Massy Oak, purchased from Todmorden Hall, and dated 1615, with a profusion of rude Carving, and Armorial Bearings.
1st upon the Head The Royal Arms and Supporters the Lion and Unicorn with the Cypher I. R. 1615
2nd Radcliffe of Todmorden. Argent a bend Dexter, engrailed Sable. A Mullet for difference
3. Ratcliffe Earl of Sussex
4. E. Stanley Earl of Derby, both within the Garter.
On each side, a crude statue. One bearing on a shield Radcliffe of Todmorden The other, Gules a Chevron - between 3 Garbs Or. for Greenacres. Under the Tester, Radcliffe of Todmorden quartering Greenacres. Crest a Bull's Head erased ducally collared or."