Image ID: 09487

Newark Castle and Gilstrap Free Library, Castlegate, Newark, c 1900-1904

Castlegate
Newark on Trent
Nottinghamshire
England

This photograph shows the ruins of what was once a remarkable building. The site has revealed Saxon remains, and there is evidence of Norman habitation, but the castle remains seen here were built c 1133 by Alexander 'The Magnificent', Bishop of Lincoln, with gatehouse, free-standing chapel (now gone) and long and high river front (265 ft long, 170 ft high), containing a watergate. A later bishop, perhaps Henry De Burghersh (1320-40) rebuilt the curtain walls in different shaded oolite and sandstone and added traceried arched windows, and yet another bishop, Thomas Rotherham (1471-80), added the Oriel windows to light the new hall and upper storey that he had put in. Henry VIII took over the castle during the Reformation, but it was allowed to deteriorate. In 1581, it was leased to the Earl of Rutland who modernised what was left as a residence, adding fireplaces and window glass (luxury!). It then passed to his son, Lord Burghley, who made it so comfortable that in 1603, the new King, James I, stayed there. It's association with royalty from hereon ultimately led to its down fall. During the Civil War, 1642-46, Newark held out for the Royalist cause and the Castle became a Royalist garrison and stronghold, until told to surrender by King Charles I, who was staying at nearby Southwell. After this the townsfolk were ordered to demolish all siegeworks, including the castle. Stone and timber was taken for building use elsewhere and squatters moved into parts of what was left. Despite all this, it still remained a Crown possession, and in 1845-8 it became the first monument to be restored at government expense. The Gilstrap Library was first opened in July 1883. It was a gift to the town from Sir WIlliam Gilstrap of Gilstrap, Earp & Co, Maltsters, and cost

Date: 1900 - 1904

Organisation Reference: NCCE003482

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