Shared description
Samson and Hercules House
Originally a mansion built by Sir John Fastolf (possibly the inspiration for Shakespeare's character 'Falstaff') it is thought that the present structure was built in 1656-7 by Christopher Jay to mark the year of his mayoralty. It is probable that the building incorporated much of the earlier house. In the 19th century the house was acquired by George Cubitt who did much to restore the building, including returning the two figures that support the entrance portico. They represent Samson and Hercules from which the house gets its name. The originals were carved from wood. They were placed outside the building in 1656-7 and removed to an inner court in August 1789. 100 years later Cubitt restored them. In the late 1990s the statues were removed. Replica statues were installed in 1999. There was a major fire in the building in 1944 which resulted in the loss of the upper floors of half the building as well as the roof. It was reconstructed in 1952-55 by J. P. Chaplin.
Created: Sun, 15 Apr 2012, Updated: Sun, 15 Apr 2012
3 images use this description:
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2012
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