In 1899 a western wing on the site of the eastern half of Bristol House[[290]] was added, from the designs of Henry L. Florence, to provide more accommodation for the Grand Lodge, including a Library and Museum. The most recent alterations and additions to the Tavern were made in 1910, when these premises were named “The Connaught Rooms.” These works were carried out by Messrs. Brown and Barrow. Very little of Cockerell’s work in the Banqueting Hall has been retained.
FREEMASONS HALL GREAT QUEEN STREET W.C.
PLAN OF FIRST FLOOR
BEFORE THE ALTERATIONS IN 1899.
Condition of repair.
The premises are in excellent condition.
Biographical notes.
Bristol House, Eastern Half.
After the division of Bristol House into two about 1684, the first four occupants of the eastern half (Nos. 57–58) were[[291]] the Earl of Wiltshire, the Earl of Stamford, Henry, Viscount Montagu, and the Portuguese Envoy.
Charles Powlett, afterwards second Duke of Bolton, second and eldest surviving son of the first Duke, was born in 1661. During the lifetime of his father he was known as the Earl of Wiltshire. He accompanied the Prince of Orange on his expedition in 1688, having a few months previously gone over to Holland, and was one of the advanced guard who entered Exeter with him. He seems to have stood high in William’s favour. He succeeded his father in the dukedom in 1699, and was made Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland in 1717. He continued to occupy a fairly prominent place about the court until his death in 1722. His residence in Great Queen Street began in 1684, or a little later, and he was still in occupation of the house on 22nd April, 1689.[[291]]
