The legacy of two governors and their mausoleums

Slug: World Heritage Day

Surat: Surat, known as the Diamond City, stands as a vibrant business hub, famous for its diamonds, textiles, and chemicals that reach global markets. But Surat's history is not just defined by its commerce—it also boasts a rich maritime legacy that stretches back several centuries. The city played a crucial role in the early development of Mumbai (then Bombay) during the 17th century. The first and second governors of Bombay, George Oxenden and Gerald Aungier, are buried in Surat. Their grand mausoleums, still standing today, serve as enduring symbols of Surat's pivotal role in the creation of what is now India's financial capital, Mumbai.

Located in Katargam, the heart of Surat's diamond polishing industry, the mausoleums are located in the British Cemetery, which is home to about 500 graves. Among these, two mausoleums stand out. The most striking is the one dedicated to Christopher Oxenden and Sir George Oxenden. This magnificent structure features two stacked cupolas. Christopher passed away in 1659, and a domed monument with four pinnacles was constructed in his memory.

In 1669, George Oxenden, president of the English factory in Surat, died during an epidemic. The book ‘Conservation of Built Environment: The Historic Cemeteries', Surat by RN Shelat and MR Bhatt mentions that George was a man of high character, respected by all. In honour of his contributions, a more elaborate and costly cupola was built above the tomb shared by George and Christopher Oxenden.

George Oxenden's career was distinguished. In 1662, he was appointed president of factories in Surat, and in 1667, he became the governor and commander-in-chief of Bombay. This marked the beginning of Surat's influence in the governance of Bombay. His epitaph, inscribed in Latin, reads: "Sir George Oxenden of Kent, the third son of James Oxenden, Knight, and himself honoured with the rank of knighthood. He was president of the English in India, Persia, and Arabia, and governor of the Island of Bombay... He was honoured for his oft-repeated services to the Company, with special marks of favour and gratitude. A man most eminent for his noble blood, experience of affairs, fortitude, prudence, and probity, he died on the 14th of July amidst the tears of many, and was buried on the 15th of July in 1669, in the 50th year of his age."

The Oxenden mausoleum is noted for its upper dome, which features an open cross structure, supported by pillars with steps leading inside.

The other prominent mausoleum is that of Gerald Aungier, George Oxenden's successor. This structure, also featuring pillars and stairs leading to the first floor, originally lacked an inscription bearing Aungier's name. The epitaph was only added in 1916, following the suggestion of Lord Curzon, who had visited Surat several times during his viceroyalty. Lord Curzon was a keen historian of the early history of British colonial activities in Surat.

After George Oxenden's death in 1669, Gerald Aungier took over as president of the Surat English factory. Under his leadership, Bombay began to flourish commercially, with Aungier offering various incentives to attract skilled workers and businessmen, especially from Gujarat. His efforts helped Bombay's population to grow significantly. Aungier passed away in 1677 in Surat and was laid to rest in the British Cemetery.

These mausoleums stand today as silent witnesses to Surat's pivotal role in British India's commercial and political history, forever linking the city with the early development of Bombay.