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Unveiling The Hidden Secrets of Texas Embassy in London
Every corner of the historic city of London has a story to tell; none more interesting than the tale of the Embassy of the Republic of Texas. Nestled in Westminster, an alleyway plaque sits as the only reminder of a formative time in Texan history. Revisiting these stories, not just as static monuments, but as real-life mysteries, is an integral part of a London Sightseeing Taxi Tour experience. Take a black cab tour to visit these hidden gems of London, making unforgettable memories.
History Behind the Plaque
This captivating story begins with Berry Brothers & Rudd, a long-established wine merchant in St. James’s Palace’s proximity. Here in 1730, a building with a rich history and intriguing secrets was erected at 4 St James’s Street. Once home to a brothel, a gambling den, and the impromptu stage of London’s last public duel, it sparked the curiosity of many. During 1836 and 1845, it was a venue of utmost importance; the Embassy of the Republic of Texas was located here.
A Moment in Time: Texas In London
When Texas was an independent sovereign nation, its borders felt pressure from both the United States and Mexico. Texas President Sam Houston decided to send Dr. Ashbel Smith, Secretary of State, to secure this diplomatic representative space in England. This was an attempt to build international sentiment for their embattled country. A twin Embassy was also positioned in France, specifically in what’s now known as the Hôtel de Vendôme.
Even though England supported Texas’ independence, Texas joined the Union in 1845, leading to the closure of their Embassy in London. The Texan delegation left behind a hefty outstanding rent bill of £160, despite their strategic location above the city’s finest wine shop.
The Resurfacing of a Forgotten Tale
Today, Berry Brothers & Rudd is a thriving wine shop. The account of their Texan tenants might have dissipated, but it stays alive within the narrow alleyway next to the shop named Pickering Place. A modest plaque still holds the echoes of the past, bearing the proud name, “The Republic Of Texas,” with the inscription “Texas Legation in this building was the legation for the ministers from the Republic of Texas to the Court of St. James 1842 – 1845.”
This plaque may seem like a common historical marker at first. But when it’s part of London Sightseeing Taxi Tours, your journey becomes an exploration beyond the usual tourist trails. You’ll experience the city’s unique and lesser-known historical sites.
The Lone Star State Repayment
In 1986, to mark the Texas sesquicentennial, 26 vibrant members of the Anglo-Texan society arrived at the wine shop in full buckskins. Their mission was to settle the unpaid rent debt that the Republic of Texas had left unfulfilled.
This fascinating story of the Texas Embassy in London is one of many that the London Sightseeing Taxi Tours aims to bring to light. Dive deep into the hidden histories, alleyway plaques, and cultural peculiarities of London that make it the intriguing city it is today. One ride, myriads of stories, London Sightseeing taxis are your time machine to the past!”