Taking a closer look at the Temple Church silver, in the context of the religious and political conflicts of the seventeenth century.
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Uncovering a variety of complaints made to the Inn over the past 400 years, with grievances ranging from being kept awake by noisy neighbours to dissatisfied diners in Hall.
Exploring the complicated and challenging environment faced by Roman Catholics at the Middle Temple over the centuries, from state surveillance to emancipation, via the building of Hall, the Gordon Riots and a mysterious stained glass pomegranate.
Shining a light on past methods of illumination at the Inn, reliance on natural light and dim, smoky candles giving way to oil and gas, and finally to the bright electric lighting of the present.
Looking at archival records which tell the (often dramatic) stories of the Inn's porters and watchmen, and exploring their personalities, heroism and misdemeanours, by way of noisy policemen, plundering soldiers and the Great Plague of London.
The 2020 edition focuses on some of the biggest issues that we have faced over the 12 months, not just at the Inn, but across society. Read more:
Uncovering the history of four silver salvers in the Middle Temple’s silver collection. Inconsistencies between the dates of production of the salvers led to discoveries relating to their origin as well as a dramatic tale of grand larceny.
Telling the story of the foundling children abandoned at the Inn and taken into its care, looking at who they were, where they came from and how the Inn provided for their health, education and future.
Delving into the history and archive of New Inn, one the now dissolved Inns of Chancery that acted as preparatory schools for the Inns of Court.
Delving into the history of the production and display of armorial panels at the Inn, as well as exploring the preservation and conservation work undertaken in the present day to ensure the survival of this unique collection.