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

Harvard House

Standing in the High Street, Harvard House was built after the destructive fire of 1595 for town official Thomas Rogers. Helpfully the date 1596 and owner’s initials are carved in the woodwork below the first-floor window together with the initials of his wife Alice and son William. The Grade I listed building displays genuine c16th timbers albeit with some restoration including moving the front door from the centre to the right. In the early c20th our other famous writer, Marie Corelli, persuaded American millionaire Edward Morris to purchase the by then dilapidated building and pay for significant interior restoration and furnishing.

Known for many years as “The Ancient House”, why then Harvard House? Thomas and Alice had a daughter, Katherine, who married Robert Harvard. Katherine gave birth to a son, John Harvard, who emigrated to America and founded a college which became Harvard University. Following the Corelli/Morris restoration Mr Morris handed the Stratford building to the university. Still the property of Harvard it is now managed on their behalf by The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

Thomas Rogers was quite a character. He was a member of Stratford Corporation rising from burgess to alderman to town bailiff, a position he held during the 1595 fire. He was also a wealthy businessman hence his ability to rebuild his home so rapidly and in such an extravagant way. If you study the timbers, you will find multiple embellishments with grotesque figures and beasts.

Returning to my picture, I illustrate the tale of Thomas Rogers being accused of hoarding grain after a disastrous harvest. Although he treated the accusation with contempt, he can be seen attempting to remove the evidence!

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.