12 Facts About Octavius Morgan

Charles Octavius Swinnerton Morgan DL, JP, FRS, FSA, known as Octavius Morgan, was a British politician, historian and antiquary.

Octavius Morgan was a significant benefactor to the British Museum, in which there is a collection that is named after him.

Octavius Morgan was the fourth son of Sir Charles Morgan, 2nd Baronet, of Tredegar Park, Monmouthshire, by his wife Mary.

Octavius Morgan's nephews were Charles Rodney Morgan, Godfrey Morgan, 1st Viscount Tredegar and Col.

Octavius Morgan had an octagonal preaching platform installed halfway up the main wooden staircase where he would conduct services every day.

Octavius Morgan served as a Justice of the Peace and Deputy Lieutenant for Monmouthshire.

Octavius Morgan had published research papers on multiple subjects including astrolabes, clocks, episcopal rings, early communion plate, local history, watches and watchmaking.

In 1852 Octavius Morgan had published a series of papers in the Archaeological Journal about the assay and hallmarking of gold and silver, the first information that had been made public on this ancient practice.

Octavius Morgan never married and died on 5 August 1888 aged 84.

Octavius Morgan was buried in his family's vault at the Church of St Basil, Bassaleg in Newport.

Octavius Morgan left his clock collection, astronomical instruments and episcopal rings to the British Museum.

Octavius Morgan's astrolabes included the 14th-century astrolabe used to call the faithful to prayer in Damascus.