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Blaze threatens historic records at College of Arms
Mark Blunden5 Feb 2009
Heraldry records of Britain's most eminent families were today under threat after a fire broke out at the 17th-century building storing them.
About 40 firefighters tackled the blaze within three hours at the Royal College of Arms, near St Paul's Cathedral. The College, founded by Richard III in 1484, grants titles and coats of arms to peers. London Fire Brigade said 20 per cent of the third floor and 10 per cent of the fourth floor had been damaged by the blaze, which began at 11am. No one was hurt and the cause was not yet known.
A spokeswoman added: “Crews have been working with the College curator to try to preserve the historical manuscripts.”
An investigation is under way.
Reader views (4)
Such a terrible tragedy to such a priceless and worthy
heraldic research collection. Perhaps it is time to digitialize the collection - to photogrpah the collection
with highest resolution for computerized storage. This might be a really great project and possibly several
Computer Companies would do this for gratis - to be associated with and help to preserve the historical materials of the finest heraldic authorities in the world. My thoughts also go to Garter and the Duke of Norfolk and to all others attached to the College of Arms.
- Je Constable, USA, 10/02/2009 15:56
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My greatest fear during the 1992 fire at Windsor was that it would reach the library and its priceless collection. This feels very much the same. May all be well.
- K. Cuthbertson, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, 06/02/2009 22:08
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I've done much research at the College of Arms over the years and have had tremendous support from the kings and heralds, as well as archivist. This fire is troubling because of the age of the structure and the extreme value of the historic materials involved. Hopefully, the Garter can begin a drive to have the records put on micro-film or other more permanent digital resources. I wish everyone at the College the best, under this difficult situation.
- Wilford Kale, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA, 06/02/2009 13:45
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This is terrible.
I was shocked when i heard of the fire, and am greatly relieved that sofar no documents seem lost.
It is so sad when historic items are gone for ever.
I hope soon we may see updates on the story, hopefully confirming that nothing was lost in the blaze.
My thoughts go out to the Duke of Norfolk and all others attatched to the Collage.
- Marjon Van Aken, Duive, The Netherlands, 06/02/2009 12:09
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