Hello readers, as The Stratford Artist my favourite subjects are the historic buildings of Stratford-upon-Avon. A few years ago, I started a project to draw and paint all the town's structures that are on Historic England's "listed buildings" schedule. There are over 350 in the town centre alone of which I have dealt with 60 or so.

To add unique interest to my work I do a little research into the history of each building looking for a quirky story, be it fact or fable, which I then illustrate with my little characters.

This is number eight in a series of articles featuring a picture and story from my historic buildings collection. I hope you like it.

Number 21 Chapel Street – Chaucer Head Bookshop

The building at 21 Chapel Street is Grade II listed and described in the schedule as “Town house now shop/dwelling, mid to late 16^th century, refronted c1790”.

We understand from archives that it was the home of yeoman Robert Gibbs until his death in 1596. It was then home to wealthy wool merchant Julius Shaw who served as high bailiff in the years 1615/16. At that time Shakespeare lived just a couple of doors away in New Place. The Bard called on Shaw to witness his will (Will’s will!).

The house has had many different uses. Currently it houses the Chaucer Head Bookshop, the owner living on the premises. From 1902 to 1930 The Shakespeare Head Press (not to be confused with the Shakespeare Press at 4 Sheep Street) occupied the building with their fine printing business. During the 19^th century a charitable Public Dispensary was established there including two small wards for in-patient care.

My picture recalls the period from 1790 when No 21 was leased to Charles Henry Hunt, the young town clerk. Hunt agreed under the terms of the lease to carry out necessary rebuilding work. This mainly involved a new frontage in the typical local brick bond with buff “headers”. Hunt was a businessman who seemed to be in the habit of overstretching his finances. He was declared bankrupt in 1800 but not before opening 21 Chapel Street as the first bank in the town. The bank was taken over by two of Hunt’s creditors but lasted only a few more years. The building still looks pretty much as it would have as Hunt’s Bank including the fancy entrance and heavy front door. The ne’er-do-well running off down the street must be disappointed with his swag… a copy of “Bank Robbing for Dummies” maybe?

Originals or prints from my historic buildings collection are often available and I welcome commissions for portraits of your home or other favourite building. Email me at ken.morgan96@yahoo.com for details.

© Ken Morgan

Ken Morgan, aka The Stratford Artist, is a professional artist working from his studio close to the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon. His favourite subjects are the historic buildings and structures in and around his hometown. He works in ink and watercolour. Architectural accuracy is important, but his style brings life to the pictures, often helped by the addition of humorous or quirky characters.

Another thing...can you find the little blackbird which appears in all Ken's pictures?

See more of Ken Morgan's work on Instagram @thestratfordartist.