Genealogy Chat

Just to add to this old thread, Robert Strutt (who was my great-great grandfather) was the landlord of the Flag Inn in Lawford, Essex, He seems to have been a very religious man (the Flag only ever had a six-day licence in his time) but one of changing allegiance. His eldest son was baptised first in the Wesleyan Chapel in Manningtree in 1827 then again at the Independent Chapel in 1828. Later Robert transferred to the Church of England and became the first organist at Lawford Parish Church, where he is buried.

He wrote the Songs of Zion in 1836 and sold it on subscription for 6/- (30p) a copy, a substantial sum in those days.. A copy is held in the British Library. This seems to have been his only musical publication but this didn't prevent Robert referring to himself as a composer until his death in 1883. White's Directory for Essex of 1863 described him more truthfully as a shoemaker, music composer, and beer seller! One of his sons, probably facetiously, referred to his father as a Professor of Music when he married in 1856. Robert's view of his musical standing may have been somewhat overblown and he may have been full of his own self-importance but it was a considerable achievement for someone from a humble background.

Thanks for all the info! I've just found out from a newly discovered relative that our ancestor was a church organist.

LOL, how lovely - he must have been very proud of it anyway! Has he got a will to check? I wondered if there was a Jewish connection as there are dozens of articles on Songs of Zion, but all hebrew! Definitely sounds like music but then he would call himself a composer not author, wouldnt he?? Check for a will.

found this on Ask http://www*covenanter.org/Worship/psalmsofholyscripture.htm dated 1840 swap * for full stop per usual

amazon selling book with same title 1864 unkown author and if google name it is a religious thing

Not Jewish as far as I know! It sounds like a hymn book to me.

How strange! Was he Jewish?

Hello, I've just found a bizarre entry on the 1871 Census for my g.g.g.grandfather, Robert Strutt. Not only did he run a public house, it also states he was 'author of The Songs Of Zion'! Naturally I'm interested to find out what this is, but can't find anything on Google. Any ideas where I can look, I presume it was a book of some sort. Thanks.