AUGUSTINE STEWARD was an important Norwich merchant and member of the Mercer's Guild.   He was Mayor of Norwich on three occasions, 1540, 1543 and 1556, as well as being Deputy Mayor during Kett's Rebellion in 1549.
A fine timber-framed house was built for him in Tombland, Norwich, opposite the main gate of the Cathedral Close.   Unfortunately, over the years, this has suffered from subsidence, which may be a considerable inconvenience for the occupants, but from a tourist point of view, has been nothing but good news, since along with its outstanding location, its charming crankiness makes it one of Norwich's most popular photographic subjects.

The jettied frontage of the building (Image 1) extends over the opening leading to Tombland Alley and the rear of St. George's Churchyard.   The corbel (image 2) beside the opening was originally decorated with a shield showing the mark of the Mercer's Guild (the head of a maiden) halved with the monogram "AS" and the date 1549.   Image 3 shows the rear of the building in the year 2000.   Images 4 to 7, show various views from Tombland Alley and the adjacent raised churchyard at various dates.   Note the missing window in image 5, a result, no doubt of changes made during one of the restorations occuring in 1900, 1944 (roof rebuilt after fire), 1962 and 1991-94.