Back in CLAYTON where they belong Purchased at auction 6th December 2013 for £1.096
These keys were presented to Asa Briggs esq J.P as detailed below. Where have they been for the last 100 or so years is unknown. (Asa died in 1911)
Their existence was brought to my attention by a gentleman in Bedford whose father had been given the keys as payment in kind for a gardening job.
Asa Briggs was a mill owner together with Alfred Wallis and Joseph Benn, all three were important benefactors to the villagers of Clayton. Asa in particular we need to thank for our Village Hall. Victoria Park, Asa Briggs Park Clayton Heights, Donations to the Baptist Chapel and housing development for his workers, plus donations to local clubs and the awarding of commemorative medals for the Queen Victoria Golden Jubilee and other significant occasions They are unique and an important part of Clayton’s social history, and I am glad to say back in Clayton where they belong. The History Club are keen too, and it is import too, make the keys available to the villagers of Clayton by making them available to ALL ORGANISATIONS in the village for discussion or presentation purposes. The keys have been acquired with help of Mr David Moore. The History Group have donated £500 to the cost and are still seeking further funding
See Full Description Below
KEY 1 A 9ct yellow gold presentation key with enamelled decoration and engraved inscription Presented to Asa Briggs Esq. J.P, on the occasion of the re-opening and re-dedication of the organ in Clayton Baptist Chapel, May 28th 1910, T & G Bragg, Birmingham 1909, 11.5 cm, approx. 32 gms
KEY 2 A 9ct yellow gold presentation key with enamelled decoration and engraved inscription Presented to Asa Briggs Esq. J.P, by his fellow members of the Clayton U. D. Council on the occasion of his opening Clayton Victoria Park, July 23rd 1898. Fattorini, Birmingham 1898, 15.5 cm, approx. 46 gms
The Park Key
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