Abel Smith Mausoleum

A lavishly carved Gothic Revival chapel with trefoil-headed windows, wrought-iron grilles and gates of the same material. There are fifteen plaques with inscriptions inside the building.

Architect

George Gilbert Scott

Style

Gothic Revival

Listing

Grade II (England and Wales)

Year built

1872

History

The mausoleum was built for John Abel Smith (1801-71). He was a banker by profession who entered Parliament as MP for Midhurst in 1830 and was returned for Chichester the following year. Apart from one short break, he continued as MP for Chichester until 1868. A staunch Liberal, he is best known for his support of religious emancipation and for advocating the admission of Jews into Parliament.

Condition

At risk. The slates have gone from the roof exposing the timber planks beneath and the iron grilles, though still in place, are rusting. If repairs are not undertaken soon the marble-lined interior will be badly affected (2002).

Sources

The John Abel Smith Papers, with documents relating to this chapel, are deposited in the Sussex County Record Office.

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