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parish of St. Martin-in-the-Fields are few, and the continuous
efforts of a few years might make it what it
ought to be, as the residence of royalty,—a model for
the rest of the metropolis.
Among the most important sanitary measures of the
present year may be mentioned the removal of all
coffins and human remains from under the Church.
The zeal, energy, and ability with which this important
work was directed by our late Churchwarden, Mr. Latchford,
deserves the cordial thanks and gratitude of the
whole Parish in general, and more especially of the
congregation which assembles in the building. The
liberality and decision of our Churchwarden was ably
seconded by Mr. Burstall, who carried out the details,
not only in a business way, but to the great satisfaction
of the relatives of those who had friends buried in the
vaults under the Church. Among the special things
to be remembered in association with this good work,
was the discovery of the remains of that great physiological
philosopher, John Hunter, and their removal to
that receptacle of the illustrious dead—Westminster
Abbey. The inhabitants of St. Martin-in-the-Fields
have now the satisfaction of knowing that not a single
coffin remains under their Church. The crypt, which has
been exhumed by destroying the vaults, aud which
Mr. Latchford has decorated by many old and interesting
monuments and tablets, is well worthy of a visit.
I have honor to be,
Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
LIONEL J. BEALE,
Medical Officer of Health
June, 1858.