An unusual late Victorian cricket bat, made from the wood of a willow tree that had grown just thirty yards from a cricket clubhouse, presented by the celebrated English cricket equipment manufacturer Stuart Surridge & Co. in October 1899.

The bat retains its traditional form, with a broad willow blade displaying attractive grain and a dark-wrapped cylindrical handle. It is mounted vertically within a purpose-made glazed wooden display case, against a rich red fabric backing.

An engraved presentation plaque mounted beneath the bat reads:

"THIS BAT WAS MADE FROM
A WILLOW GROWING THIRTY YARDS IN FRONT
OF THE CLUB HOUSE IN OCTOBER 1899
PRESENTED BY
Stuart Surridge & Co."

Stuart Surridge & Co. was an established English manufacturer of cricket bats and sporting equipment, associated with the development and production of quality cricket bats during the late Victorian period and beyond.

The inscription provides a particularly interesting record of the bat's origins, linking it directly to a willow tree growing beside a cricket clubhouse. Its presentation by Stuart Surridge & Co. suggests that it was intended as a commemorative or presentation piece, celebrating the local source of the timber and its transformation into a cricket bat.

A charming and unusual piece of English sporting history, combining Victorian craftsmanship, cricketing heritage and a remarkable story of provenance.

England, dated October 1899.

Condition: in good antique condition, with wear, marks and patination to the bat consistent with age. The wooden display case shows surface wear, scratches and minor losses, while the interior fabric exhibits some age-related fading and wear. Please refer to photographs.

Dimensions: 31cm wide, 14cm deep, 110cm high