The Statutes of Dulwich Colledge [sic].

[Alleyn (Edward)]

Published by c, 1680

About this Item

manuscript in ink on paper, red ruled margins, a few spots and stains, pp. 69, plus initial blank leaf, and 12 blank (save for red rules) leaves at end, folio, loose in the original limp vellum binding, title as above in MS on upper cover, a bit dust-soiled and a few other minor stains, good. This is a relatively early copy of 'The Original Book of the Statutes and Ordinances of the College of God's Gift in Dulwich, Sept. 29, 1626, with an additional clause dated Nov. 20, 1626' (Henslowe-Alleyn Digitisation Project, Muniments Series 3, Group 594). The College was originally 'Alleyn's College of God's Gift at Dulwich', but was known colloquially as Dulwich College more or less ab initio (but not correctly until 1808). The additional clause is dated only five days before Alleyn's death. The dates of Edward Alleyn, (1566 1626), actor and theatre entrepreneur, are close to those of Shakespeare. Alleyn was two years younger, and survived the dramatist by a decade. 'The impulse for this foundation had come from a variety of factors: Alleyn's childlessness; the current vogue for building such foundations, exemplified by such patrons as Thomas Sutton (who built Sutton's Hospital, that is, Charterhouse, in 1611); and the driving impulse to achieve fame and build a monumental legacy that seemed to be one of Alleyn's defining traits throughout his life. He had purchased the manor of Dulwich in 1605; the bargain was completed in late spring the next year and the entire estate passed into his hands in 1614. In May 1613 the physical construction of the college had begun (Alleyn having moved to Dulwich from his former house in Southwark) and in September 1616 the college chapel was consecrated by George Abbot, archbishop of Canterbury. Then, in 1618, Alleyn encountered opposition from Francis Bacon, then lord chancellor, who attempted to stay the patent for the institution because he opposed the transfer of personal fortunes to foundations. But Alleyn was not one to be easily beaten down. After almost a year of politicking he managed to convince Bacon to change his mind, and on 13 September 1619 he read the deed of foundation and statutes in the college. Distinguished statesmen attended the event, including Francis Bacon, Inigo Jones (the king's surveyor), Thomas Howard, earl of Arundel, Sir Thomas Grimes, John Finch (later lord keeper), and Sir John Bodley' (ODNB). Seller Inventory # 61126

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Statutes of Dulwich Colledge [sic].

Publisher: c

Publication Date: 1680