A little Manual adapted to assist the enquiring stranger in his
perambulation around Shrewsbury having been long required, an ardent
attachment to his native place, and compliance with the wishes of many
friends whose opinions demand respect, are circumstances that have
induced the present writer to undertake the task, in which he has been
materially assisted by the possession of several volumes of SALOPIAN
ANNALS, or memoranda of all the principal events that have occurred in
the town for several past years, the collection whereof has afforded him
a pleasing recreation in those scraps of time snatched from active
professional avocations—periods wherein every one has his favourite
pursuit, and in which any individual may, by prudently employing them for
his own pleasure, not unfrequently render himself useful to others.
It may be further stated that the present design is purely patriotic; and
whilst no expence has been spared in the numerous embellishments, candour
and truth (combined with accuracy and conciseness) have been carefully
observed throughout a more extensive field of local information and
graphical illustration than has heretofore been cultivated in any
previous work adapted as a Guide through the Metropolis of
Shropshire,—many subjects being now classified and brought under general
notice for the first time.
The Author would therefore hope that the MEMORIALS OF SHREWSBURY will be
found to afford a comprehensive and faithful illustration to the stranger
of whatever may be important in this ancient and beautifully situated
town, as well as useful and deserving the confidence of his
fellow-townsmen in particular, to whom he offers them (to use the words
of our great lexicographer) “in the spirit of a man that has endeavoured
well,” and with the utmost sincerity for the best interests of his native
place.