A Bikwil Epitaph for an Extraordinary Musical Aristocrat - Tony Rogers

.....But for pure Bikwilian idiosyncratic nobility of purpose, no bearer of the surname can take the outrageous cake as can Gerald Hugh Tyrwhitt (1883-1950). In my editorial in Bikwil No. 13 (May, 1999) it was Gerald Tyrwhitt whom I intended to feature in our series Memorable Moments in Music as the British composer who wrote the words for his own headstone. Further investigation, however, has led me to realise that his role as self-epitaphist (anomalous though it may have been) was relatively minor in the full eccentric scheme of his gloriously unlikely life. In short, he deserves an extended laudatory article unto himself, well beyond the confines of the memorably musical.

The full article in 4 parts can be found on the Bikwil website. Part1: Part2: Part3: Part4

Extract from Pigot & Co's Directory of 1824

"Within three minutes' walk of the town, is Faringdon Hill, well known for its extensive view over the surrounding country; it rises gradually from the vale of White Horse, the whole of which it commands, as well as a rich and varied prospect of parts of five counties, viz Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Buckinhamshire.

There are many single points of view, which equal, or perhaps surpass, that to be seen from this place, but when a circuit is made of its summit, and new beauties are found at every step, it cannot fail to be pronounced the finest circular view in the kingdom"

Pink Pigeons and Blue Mayonnaise

New Criterion Nov 1, 1998
Gerald Berners is a man who tends to show up in other people's memoirs, letters, and diaries. He generally does so in a somewhat oblique fashion, arriving late, leaving early, never the life of but always a guest at the party.........

Grade II Listing dated 25 March 1988

Grade II identifies buildings of local/regional interest which warrant every effort being made to preserve them. Buildings dating from 1840 to 1914 are only considered when they are of definite quality and character, the selection being designed to include the principal works of the principal architects. Selected buildings of 1914 to 1939 are also considered.

This pdf files contains the listing for 2 other properties in Faringdon also

The view from the tower - short version

A description of the view to the West,North, East and South

The view from the tower

A detailed description of the view to the West, North, East and South

The view from the tower - in Pictures.

History of Folly Hill

Short History from 12th century to tree planting in 18th century

Account of excavations at Folly Hill in the Antiquaries Journal July 1937, Vol XVII, No 3

An adulterine castle on Faringdon Clump, Berkshire. Report 1, and Report 2

An adulterine castle is a British unlicensed private castle built by a baron primarily during the Anarchy of 1135 to 1154 during the reign of King Stephen

http://www.berkshirehistory.com/castles/faringdon_cast.html