Plaque number 76 can be found at this location.
This plaque can be found at first floor level on Dollond & Aitchison's building in Catherine Street.
The O/S grid position is SU 14541 East 29898 North.
Salisbury Civic Society
The Violin Maker Benjamin Banks
1727-1795
Lived and worked here.
Benjamin Banks was one of the leading English makers of Amati violins.
He had a business in Catherine Street for forty years making cellos, violins and violas. Included in the items he made was a specially commissioned violin for the Earl of Pembroke who lived at Wilton House near Salisbury. During a storm a cedar of Lebannon was brought down on the estate and the Earl asked Banks to make a violin from the wood. His business was carried on by his two sons after his death.
At least two of his instruments are still (2008) being played by Salisbury musicians. One of these, a violin, is owned by Salisbury City Council and is loaned to the leader of the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra.
His grave is in St Thomas's Church's south churchyard at O/S grid position SU 14338 East 29967 North.
Salisbury and South Wilts museum is worth a visit to learn more about Benjamin Banks.
The gravestone is inscribed:
Ann, wife of Benjamin Banks
died 14 Sep.
1785
Aged 57 Years
Benjamin Banks
departed this Life
18 Feb. 1795
Aged 67 Years
In memory of the most eminent English maker of stringed musical instruments.
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