Ministry of Works: Audley End

Audley End (1955)

We tend to think of the formal ‘blue’ Ministry of Works guidebooks. But the one for Audley End in Essex (London: HMSO, 1955; 1 shilling) is not only green but has a line drawing on the cover. It was written by B. H. St. J. O’Neil (formerly Chief Inspector of ancient Monuments), R.J.B. Walker (Curator of Pictures, Ministry of Works) and F.J.B. Watson (Assistant Director, Wallace Collection).

The guide runs over 22 pages and there are plans (p. 10-11) and black and white photographs:

• History (3-9) [No mention is made of the wartime role of the house.]
• Description (12-22)