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In 1977 the Wellington Exhibition was opened in part of the Stables to depict,
in graphic terms, the life and times of Arthur, the first Duke of Wellington.
It houses a vast collection of momentoes of his long life as a soldier and statesman
in the service of his country. It includes maps, weapons, caricatures with an
infinite variety of clothes, as well as the original Wellington Boots and robes
made for the coronation of George IV.
The magnificent, richly ornamental funeral carriage was made of bronze cast
from melted down french cannons captured at Waterloo. It was designed and constructed
by a number of designers and craftsmen over a period of two months and was built
in four sections in only 18 days.
In 1861 it was lodged in the Crypt of St Paul's where it
remained until 1981 when it was moved to Stratfield Saye on
permanent loan.
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