Several notable incidents have occurred in the Market Square. In 1547 the pictures of Our Lady from St. Mary’s Church, of Mary Magdalene and of St. Chad from St. Chad’s Church, were publicly burned here because they were supposed to be coloured with Popery. In 1579, on the 18th of August, the assizes were held in this place, “open and in the face of day.” The judicial bench consisted of the scaffolding of some new building, and from this dignified seat justice was dispensed. On the 17th of July, 1584, the public were entertained with a play performed in the Square by a company belonging to the Earl of Essex. Six years later, in the month of July, 1590, there was more public acting. A platform was erected for feats of skill, and a Hungarian, with a number of the Queen’s players, succeeded in some extraordinary achievements in the way of tumbling, rope-dancing—achievements of such an astonishing sort that “the like had never before been seen in Shrewsbury.” In the latter part of December, 1740, a portion of the roof of the Market Hall fell down, destroying life and property to the enormous extent of two millers’ horses, which were so inconsiderate as to stand underneath the covering. Thus this central part of the town reveals to us the development of local history. Once it presented a proof of an apprehension of Popery which led to an act of bigotry, then it marked the administration of justice, then it afforded room for the histrionic art, and then it was the stage for introducing to the good folk of Shrewsbury some wonderful gymnastic games. The immediate vicinity of the Square is rich in antique buildings. The Mercer’s Hall and the old Judges’ Lodgings have already been just glanced at. Now, in turning to the left opposite the latter another fine old structure presents itself. It is IRELAND’S MANSION, erected about 1570 as the town residence of the ancient family of Ireland. It was, of course, one house only, but it is now divided into three. Still keeping to the left we find ourselves in front of THE NEW MARKET, a handsome and commodious building, designed by Mr. Robert Griffiths, of Stafford, and constructed by Mr. Barlow, of Stoke-upon-Trent. The foundation stone was laid in 1867 by Mr. John Thomas Nightingale, then mayor of the borough. The total cost reached a sum not far short of £50,000. The market supplies a great and long-felt want, and, architecturally, adds to the attractions of the town. The Market brings us into SHOPLATCH