Old Church Street - Artisans

Artisans

Charles Shapley (Chapley) "... coal merchant and lighterman..." (c. 1710 – 1780)

Charles Shapley was bound apprentice lighterman to Thomas Rowles on 13. Jan 1726, at Christ Church (Blackfriars, Southwark). He gained his freedom as "Freeman of the River Thames" after 7 years on 14. Feb 1733. . In his will made 19 August 1779 (Public Record Office ref. - PROB 11/1069 - ) Charles Shapley (Chapley) "... coal merchant and lighterman ...", gave his residence as his "freehold house" in Church Lane, Chelsea . He bequeathed two freehold houses in Church Lane and another two freehold houses around the corner in Lombard Street which was formerly that part of Cheyne Walk lying between No. 67 and the entrance to Danvers Street . Charles Shapley made provision for his interment in Chelsea Old Church north side where he had caused a stone to be raised ("All Saints" 1788 showing Arch House . Lombard Street was through the arch). In the year 2000, the Museum of London Archaeological Services carried out an archaeological dig at the cemetery . One of the few graves identified was that of "Charles Shapley (70 years)". His coffin was fitted with a large decorated lead plate bearing the inscription "Mr Charles Shapley Died 16 Sept 1780 Aged 70". The plate is archived by the Museum of London Archaeological Services.