Taylor Crested Silverware returned to Ardgillan Castle

Ardgillan Castle: Taylor Family Silver

The Taylor Family Crest and Historical Silver
The Taylor family, whose influence shaped the history of Ardgillan Castle, left a rich legacy, symbolised in part by their distinctive crest: a bare arm holding an arrow. This crest appears on several pieces of antique silverware, now believed to have originated from the castle itself. The Taylor crest is also carved into the wooden panels in the Dining Room of Ardgillan Castle, which can be seen while taking a self guided tour of the castle.

About the Silver

This remarkable collection includes:
• Three table forks, two dessert spoons, and two table spoons, all bearing the Taylor family crest.
• An unusual spoon made in India between 1821 and 1845, featuring an additional bird crest and an engraving reading “Madras 1808.” This piece may reflect the Taylors’ military connections and travels in India, offering a unique glimpse into the family’s global influence.
• A silver sauce ladle with the same crest, which remains in private collection but shares a connection to these historical items.

The silver was saved decades ago by Jon Taylor, whose father, a jeweller, discovered them in a batch of scrap silver destined to be recycled. Mr. Taylor (not related to the Ardgillan Taylors), lives in Chelmsford in Essex. He retired in 2016 and had the time to undertake extensive research into the history of the silverware. Recognising their significance, he preserved them, and through his research, confirmed their connection to the Taylors of Ardgillan Castle through Dublin hallmarks, engravings, and historical context.

A Generous Gift to Ardgillan
In a gesture of great generosity, these historic pieces were donated to Ardgillan Castle. By returning them to their rightful home, these artifacts offer a tangible link to Ardgillan Castle’s rich history. Their preservation allows visitors to connect with the daily lives and global reach of the Taylor family.

A Glimpse into Ardgillan’s Past
The silver adds to the growing collection of items that bring the castle’s story to life, enhancing the experience for all who visit.

Acknowledgment: Ardgillan Castle gratefully acknowledges Jon Taylor for his extraordinary dedication to preserving history and for his generous donation of these items. The Silverware, now on display in Argillan Castle, now serve as a lasting connection to the Taylors’ heritage.