Plymouth History Comes to Auction: The Sir James Clifford Tozer Collection.
Under the Hammer with Paul Keen:
This week I want to share the story of one of Plymouth's most influential figures, Sir James Clifford Tozer, whose collection of silver, antiques and personal effects will feature in our Summer Antiques Auction this August.
The collection comes directly from his former home and offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a man whose legacy can still be seen throughout Plymouth today.
Sir James began his remarkable public career at just 23, when he was elected to Devonport Borough Council in 1912. He later became Mayor of Plymouth in 1930, an Alderman of the city and, in 1939, was knighted by King George VI for his outstanding public and political service.
Among the items coming to auction are several pieces presented to him by the city he served, including his 9ct gold medal as an Honorary Freeman of Plymouth, awarded on 6 September 1952. There is also a ceremonial spade used by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress at the opening of Whitleigh Footbridge on 5 September 1953, together with a silver inkwell commemorating the opening of Central Park on 29 June 1931.
The collection also reflects the family's long civic connection with Devonport. A large silver tyg was presented to Sir James's father, Mayor of Devonport, to mark the laying of the first brick at the purified sewage works on 6 April 1903.
Beyond the civic treasures are the contents of a remarkable Plymouth home: Sir James's leather armchair, his walnut desk, Art Deco dining chairs, photographs, old postcards of Plymouth, a portrait painting and even letters to Randolph Churchill.
It is a privilege to bring this important collection to auction and, through these objects, tell the story of a man whose dedication helped shape modern Plymouth and whose legacy still surrounds us today.
