148
THE ESSEX NATURALIST.
ments and poetic ability. He was followed by his son Thomas one of
whose daughters, Rebecca, married George Mildmay of Corbets Tye, and
died in 1757, being buried on March ye 21 in the Vicar's Chancel of Dagen-
ham Church.
Henry Merttins was the next owner and he died at Valence on March
28th, 1725, and was buried in Dagenham churchyard, as was also his son
and successor, John Henry Merttins, who died at Valence in 1776. The
tenant, or owner, in 1786, was one Bird; he was there in 1800 but gone by
1812.
Succeeding tenants have been John Hopkins Dare, Samuel Seabrook,
J. G. Cholmondeley, Geo. Winmill, Chas. Cathie and Thomas May.
Mr. O'Leary, Librarian to the Council, then spoke of the collection
of local prints and watercolours which he had got together as the nucleus
of a comprehensive set of Essex topographical drawings.
He said that a photographic survey of the few old houses remaining
in Dagenham was being undertaken and mentioned that a Central Public
Library and two branch Libraries were in process of formation—further
very satisfactory evidences of the Council's activity.
The visitors then proceeded to a detailed inspection of the house
and grounds, from roof to cellar of the premises being visited. In spite of
various additions to the older portions, necessitated by modern require-
ments, Valence House still retains some of its original features. It is built
on a L plan and boasts many quaint gables. Mr. Allen's private office was
discovered, some two years ago, to be lined with hidden oak panelling, of
apparently 17th century date, and this has been exposed and carefully
restored. Other panelling is seen in other of the rooms, and this seems to
be 18th century work. The staircase balustrading is very handsome.
Mr. Allen mentioned that, notwithstanding the miles of streets which
now hem in the grounds of Valence—a veritable rus in urbe—birds have not
deserted the place, but still nest there. Tits, starlings, blackbirds, and
little owls are constant inhabitants, while a pair of Mute Swans and various
water-fowl have been introduced to the moat which forms, to the east of
the house, a broad expanse, almost lakelike. Moorhens nest here regularly.
Tea had been thoughtfully provided by Mr. Allen in the Council
Chamber and was greatly appreciated by the visitors. The Hon. Secretary
voiced the thanks of the party to the Chairman of the Council for the
kind invitation given to the Club, to Mr. O'Leary for the trouble he had
gone to in arranging the display of local prints and, last, but by no means
least, to our member, Mr. Allen, for his kind hospitality which they had
just enjoyed. Mr. Allen briefly responded and leaves were taken and the
party dispersed.
ANNUAL MEETING (684TH MEETING)
AND ORDINARY MEETING (685TH MEETING).
SATURDAY, 28TH MARCH, 1931.
These meetings were held, as usual, in the Physics, Lecture Theatre
of the Municipal College, Romford Road, Stratford, the President, Sir
David Prain, C.M.G., CLE., F.R.S., etc., in the Chair. 45 members
attended.