Graffiti on salvaged roof lead

This peace of lead roofing material was removed from behind the parapet on the SW of Lydiard House in 1995 when the building was being reroofed. It was salvaged on account of the graffiti that had been etched into it over a period of some 150 years.

The most noteworthy inscription was made by a GI during World War II when Lydiard Park contained a US military camp.

CPL. RITCHLEY / HENEY. KANSAS / USA 1943

Corporal Ritchley most likely left his mark on November 3rd 1943 when a group of GI's broke into Lydiard House, an act for which they were made to atone for in St. Mary's Church the following Sunday.

The earliest marks are by Charles Cook in 184(4?) and T. Smith, a Swindon Plumber in 1872. The majority of marks were made in the second half of the 20th century by Swindon workmen, probably members of Swindon Council's Direct Labour Organisation who were responsible for repairs and decoration to the building. These include 'R. (Roy) Webb 1976' who was the council's senior decorator - see Items of Interest below.