WOOLTON TOWER (continued):

The eclectic elements are:

1. the medieval military features of the tower;

2. Tudor mullioned windows and chimneys; and

3. a Sussex hip on just one dormer.

Besides eclecticism, the two other significant features are:

1. the use of rock-faced masonry; and

2. the widely oversailing eaves - chosen for the rustic air they would impart to the building.

Inside we should note the spaciousness of the staircase (top-lit with a rooflight including painted glass) and the fireplaces.

A further speculation runs - did the client want his house to be built in this way? or did the architect make the choice? Is this a record of local taste bearing testimony to the continuing influence of Nash's Villas, and Mr Loudon's pattern books?

Owners and Occupiers:

From the deeds it appears to us that in 1856 Matthew Wilson Armour (c.1828-1906) bought a piece of land from the Rt Rev. Richard B. Roskell, (1817-1883) first R.C. Bishop of Nottingham, John Lynch and J. Roskell. This would be part of the settling up of the estate of Richard's father Robert Roskell (c.1773-1847) of Gateacre Hall, watch maker and a silversmith of national repute whose work was exhibited in the 1851 Exhibition in London. Robert had come to Liverpool from Garstang and in 1810 was living and working with his brother John in 10 & 11 Church Street, Liverpool. Soon he was living at Gateacre Hall and John was at Doe Park (Woolton Golf Club).

continued . . .