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Buckingham House Palace

Was erected in 1703, on the site of what was originally called the Mulberry Gardens, by the learned and accomplished John Duke of Buckingham, who, after passing an active life, distinguished by bravery, retired from his labours to his mansion, and died in 1720, aged 75.

It was purchased in 1761 for 21,000l;. and was, since that period, the late queen' mansion, or palace, exclusively ; and, during the health of his majesty, it was his residence and that of his consort, when they were domesticated in town. The front is of red brick, with white pilasters, entablatures, door and window frames. Portions of the interior are large and commodious, particularly the staircase, grand rooms, &c. There are a great number of valuable Cabinet Pictures and Miniatures here, which were the private property of the late Queen, though they are not mentioned in her majesty's will, and the hall and staircase display some of the finest works of the elegant artist Canaletti, painted when he was in England. These will probably now be added to the Prince regent's collection. The celebrated Cartoons of Raphael were formerly placed in Buckingham House, and have since been removed to Hampton Court. The late queen possessed this palace for her life.

Source: Leigh's New Picture of London. Printed for Samuel Leigh, 18, Strand;
by W. Clowes, Northumberland Court. 1819