Arthur Richardson, Crediton violin maker.
Recently, CAHMS was contacted by Casey Ellison, owner of Arthur Richardson violin number 227, made in 1935. Casey was trying to find out a little more information about Mr Richardson and the violin, and our archivist John Heal was able to fill in some gaps. It was a useful reminder to us that there isn't much material on our website about one of Crediton's more famous sons.
Working from his Crediton home, Derbyshire-born Mr Richardson (1882-1965) made 291 violins, 207 violas and 28 cellos. In partnership with the renowned violist Lionel Tertis, he did much to popularise the viola.
Alan Quick wrote a detailed biography of Mr Richardson for the Crediton Courier. We are hoping to acquire permission to reproduce it.
There is further historical information, and a charming personal encounter, in the section entitled 'A Crediton Craftsman' of Eric Delderfield's book 'Just Wandering in Devon' published by Raleigh in 1954.
Arthur Richardson, with 2 of his violins and a viola.
Some of Mr Richardson's templates and moulds, on display in a recent Crediton Museum exhibition.
This is Richardson violin number 221, made in 1935, and happily still in Devon.