Transcript

of

The Lethbrocs, Lethbrogs, or Lethbridges

Devon & Cornwall Notes & Queries 1:8, (1900) pp. 255.

by

A.J. Davey

Prepared by Michael Steer

THE LETHBROCS, LETHBROGS, or LETHBRIDGES (par. 180, page 214) - In continuation of the paper on Regner Lethbrog the following footnote to the legend of "The Raven Banner", published in the Western Miscellany, 1849, will no doubt be interesting. The writer of the legend says as follows: "If anyone walking through the South Street of Exeter, will take the trouble to step a few yards into St James' Street, he may observe on the left hand a small arched door leading to the court of some almshouses. Over the door are inscribed the following words:

Built and endow'd by Christopher Lethbridge Esq., one of the aldermen of this city. All things come of Thee, and of Thine own have I given Thee, I Chronicles, chapter xxix, verse 14.- 1669."

This Christopher Lethbridge was Mayor of Exeter in the year of the Restoration, and founded these almshouses for the habitation of six poor people, allotting them yearly the sun of £15. 12s.

He is stated by Prince in his Worthies of Devon to have been the last male descendant of Regner Lothbroc, an opinion which seems to be confirmed by his arms, which bear in chief an eagle or raven displayed sable".