Original 1856 antique engraved illustration of the Soldiers' Reading Room at St. Mary's Barracks, Chatham, printed more than 160 years ago.

• The image area measures 6" x 9¼", and the view shows a large group of British infantrymen conversing, seated at a long table reading, or standing in front of a  bookcase.



• The engraving is on a full page from the March 8, 1856 edition of The Illustrated London News, which includes an article on the barracks and its history.



• When this engraving was printed St. Mary's was being used as an 'Invalid Barracks', accommodating soldiers having to return from service in different parts of the British Empire because of illness, injury or age.



• More formally known as St Mary's Casemated Barracks, the facility had been built within the defensive earthworks to the north of Chatham during the Peninsular War and initially held French prisoners of war. The barracks were demolished in the 1960s and the land used for housing.



• Condition:  This engraving is in very good condition, bright and clean, with no marks, rips, or tears. Please see the scans, which include a view of the full 16" x 11" page, and feel free to ask any questions.



• It is an original, authentic antique 1856 engraving, not a reproduction or modern reprint, and it is fully guaranteed to be genuine.



• It would look wonderful matted and framed, and it would make an impressive display in your den or office. It would also make a perfect gift, and we'll include our helpful framing tips for your reference.



• Buy with confidence! We are always happy to combine shipping on the purchase of multiple items — just make sure to pay for everything at one time, not individually.