This building at 14, All Saints’ Street (now Duncan and Toplis Chartered Accountants) was altered at some point, because the right-hand bay has been flattened. It is not known, however, whether this was what Mr. Traylen objected to (it certainly altered the symmetry) or, indeed if it was done just after his appeal or much later.
“THE PARTICULAR INTEREST vested in the accompanying illustration is explained by the appended letter to the Mercury from Mr. H. F. Traylen, F.S.A., the well-known local architect and antiquary.
Sir, – All lovers of our beautiful old town will rejoice to hear the news of the rescue of a bit of old Stamford. I enclose a photograph of a 17th century house in St. Peter’s-street which it was proposed to alter, thus destroying its symmetry and character. I am pleased to inform you that after a talk the owner has realised the value of the building and has agreed that no alteration to the exterior shall be made.
I support there is no other town in England which possesses such a complete series of 17th and 18th century houses typifying the gradual development of this style as Stamford and in which this particular building forms such a vaulable line.
All those who love our ole town will feel a deep debt of gratitude to the owner of the property (Miss S. Wade) for her action, thus giving a lead to other owners and custodians of such interesting examples.
This is not only a local matter, but one of national importance in these days, when even foreigners are glad to chip such examples overseas.
A few enquiries before contemplated alterations of similar buildings would add to the number of Stamford’s admirers, and probably prevent the spoliation* of out links with past ages which can never be replaced.”
The Stamford Mercury, 25th November, 1927.
*The ruining or spoiling of something.