| Administrative History | Robert R Duke served his apprenticeship as a builder but taught himself draughtsmanship. He moved to Buxton, probably in the late 1830s, because of his poor health. He worked for some time as a builder in partnership with Mr Samuel Turner. With Turner he served on the Board of Management for the Devonshire Hospital and was the architect for the alterations and additions in 1879. He was also responsible for the building of the Royal Hotel in Spring Gardens. |
| Custodial History | Acquired by Derbyshire Record Office in 2002. Originally part of collection of Robert R Duke and acquired by donor's father with some additions |