THE TOWN WALLS
extended in a line with the Castle Gates across the isthmus down to the banks of the river, having a corresponding barrier on the other side of the castle. It was erected by Robert de Belesme, third Norman Earl of Shrewsbury, under the idea that his father’s fortifications were not of sufficient strength to withstand a siege from the forces of Henry I. which in 1102 marched against him (page [14]).
An additional rampart called Roushill, enclosing the space between the wall of Earl Robert and the Welsh bridge, was added during the Commonwealth. These walls for many years served as a communication between the northern and western parts of the town; but in 1835 the more modern portion was nearly buried in the formation of a new road.
RECREATIVE.
THE THEATRE.
When man is contemplated in the character of a being, who can be successfully addressed by an appeal to the passions and the understanding, the Drama, under proper restrictions, may be rendered serviceable.
I have heard
That guilty creatures, sitting at a play,
Have, by the very cunning of the scene,
Been struck so to the soul, that presently
They have proclaim’d their malefactions.Shakspeare.
The old building used for the purpose of dramatic performance in this town, is said to have formed part of a royal dwelling of the Princes of Powys Land. Having long been ruinous, it was purchased by Mr. Bennett, the manager, and taken down in 1833. The erection of the present theatre on its site has been an important improvement to the thoroughfare leading to St. John’s Hill and the Quarry, as well as an ornament to the town. It forms a centre and two wings; the lower part consists of a rusticated base, upwards of 100 feet in length, fitted up as shops, with a house for the manager. Above is a continued string-course, from which rises two pilasters in each wing, supporting a frieze and cornice.
The windows are finished with architraves, and the front of the building displays three niches, containing statues of the immortal bard Shakspeare and of the Comic and Tragic Muse, executed in compos by Mr. James Parry, a native of this town.