Historical request - stonemasons

[Nicola <Nicola@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello,

I came across your listserve and hope that someone might be able to provide
me with information or advice.

Over the past year I have been gathering information on my ancestors - the
Strong's.  They were well known stone masons - originally from
Gloucestershire & Oxfordshire (projects included:  various country manor
houses, Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford etc) in the 1600's and subsequently
London (late 1600's & 1700's), where they became mason contractors - working
for Hawksmoor & Wren after the Great Fire of 1666 (projects included St
Paul's Cathedral, numerous London churches, Greenwich Hospital & Blenheim
Palace).  They owned two quarries, which provided stone to their
constructions in the Cotswolds, Oxford & London.  The quarries were based in
Little Barrington and Tayton (near Burford - Oxfordshire/Gloucestershire).

I have recently started to transcribe and research original London Masons
Livery records (with absolute fascination) and other records on stonemasons
during this period.  My data is starting to piece together, but there are
many data gaps, and resources I still need to access.  I also plan to
develop more of a contextual understanding of life in London/Oxfordshire etc
at the time of their workings, as well as develop more of an understanding
of what stonemasonary would have entailed during this time (this has not
been easy).

I would be most grateful if anyone could provide me with information or
advice on the Strong's; stonemasonry/quarrying during this period; the
buildings/quarrys mentioned; useful resources etc or any other information
you feel would be of value.

On the off chance:  I believe Edward Strong Snr wrote up his memoirs when he
retired to Hertfordshire in mid-1700's.  Would anyone know how I could trace
this?

Should anyone be interested in my findings to date please do not hesitate to
contact me.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Nicola

............................................................................
    Nicola Jenkin
    Projects Manager

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