The Properties and Complete Inventory As at 1924
Of the Armenian Holy Church of Nazareth
Calcutta
Armenian Church of St. Gregory, Karya
(now known as ‘The Small Church, Park Circus’) Calcutta
Armenian Holy Church of the Resurrection Tangra, Calcutta
Armenian St. John’s Church Chinsurah
Compiled by A.P. Arakiel
1st April 1924
Additional biographical footnotes and annotations
added by Liz Chater
Holy Church of Nazareth, Calcutta
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GOLD ITEMS
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| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Gold swinging incense burner | In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip A. George | 1856 |
| 2 | 1 | Gold cross set with diamonds and 4 glass boxes containing relics | – | – |
| 3 | 1 | Chased gold chalice, set with diamonds, emeralds, rubies and other stones, with a plain paten | In memory of Agha Petros[i], son of Arathoon | 1778
|
| 4 | 1 | Gold clasp for waist-band, a double-headed eagle surmounted by cross and crown set with emeralds, rubies and diamonds | Bought from Church funds | – |
| 5 | 1 | Small gold cross with nut and screw at base for fixing on tip of mitre, set with diamonds and rubies | Bought from Church funds | – |
| 6 | 1 | Copy of New Testament with gold covers | Marked I.M.Z[1]. | – |
| 7 | 1 | Gold frame containing a picture of Virgin Mary with silver engraved back and edge | In memory of Pogose and Zemrooth, children of Sahak and Mariamkhanoom, wife of Hovannes | – |
| 8 | 1 | Small gold goblet plan | – | – |
| 9 | 1 | Small gold box set with diamonds for carrying Holy Sacrament | In memory of George Stephen Bagram[2] | – |
| 10 | 1 | Antique gold box inlaid with carved mother-of-pearl, ivory, coral etc. | Presented by Eliza A. Moses and his wife Mary[3] | 1894 |
| 11 | 1 | Gold lamp frame with star at top lined with copper and attached by 3 chains | In memory of Mr. Phillip A. George | 1872 |
| 12 | 473 | Small gold crosses for vows | – | – |
| 13 | 1 | Gold cased decanter with stopper | In memory of Ethel[4], youngest daughter of Carapiet and Mary M. Arathoon | 1903 |
| 14 | 1 | Gold bowl, plain | In memory of Mrs. Anna Catchick Avetoom, from her loving daughters Anna and Elizabeth[5] | 1905 |
| 15 | 1 | Gold cross, small size | J.M. Zorab[6] | |
| 16 | 1 | Gold cross, small size | By Thomas A. Apcar | 1870 |
| 17 | 1 | Gold cross, medium size | By Thomas A. Apcar | 1857
|
| 18 | 1 | Gold cross, medium size | In memory of Catchik Thaddeus Avetoom[7], by Catchick Johannes and Elizabeth Avetoom, his children | 1911 |
| 19 | 1 | Gold cross, medium size | In memory of Zorab Malcolm Manukian | 1847 |
| 20 | 1 | Gold cross, plain and small | By Mrs. M.V. Apcar[ii] | 1923 |
| 21 | 1 | Very large size New Testament, bound in red velvet with a large gold plain cross | Presented by Mr. John Gregory | 1905
|
| 22 | 1 | Gold cross set with 4 rubies and one emerald | Presented by Arratoon Palian | 1923 |
| 23 | 1 | Gold cross set with 1 stone and with a long chain | – | – |
| 24 | 1 | Small gold cross set with 5 stones | – | – |
| 25 | 1 | Lot of broken crosses and 4 pieces gold, crescent shaped | – | – |
| 26 | 1 | Handle of a cross, gold | – | – |
| 27 | 1 | Gold ring set with 1 stone | – | – |
| 28 | 1 | Gold ring set with 1 stone | – | – |
| 29 | 1 | Gold monogram ring | – | – |
| 30 | 1 | Gold ring set with 1 stone | – | – |
| 31 | 1 | Gold ring set with 2 stones | – | – |
| 32 | 1 | Gold ring set with 1 stone | – | – |
| 33 | 1 | Gold ring set with rubies | – | – |
| 34 | 1 | Gold ring set with pearl | – | – |
| 35 | 1 | Gold ring set with diamonds and 1 large emerald | – | – |
| 36 | 1 | Gold ring set with 1 set | – | – |
| 37 | 1 | Gold ring set with 3 stones | – | – |
| 38 | 1 | Gold ring, plain | – | – |
| 39 | 2 | Gold rings, plain | – | – |
| 40 | 1 | Gold ring set with 1 stone | – | – |
| 41 | 2 | Small gold crosses set with stones | – | – |
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SILVER ITEMS
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| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Silver gilt cross with diamond cut border set with rough sapphires and rubies | In memory of Shamir Hovsepich Melik Beglarovian[8] | 1883 |
| 2 | 1 | Silver gilt box with chased sides and engraved lid for holding the Holy Sacrament | Marked E.A. | – |
| 3 | 1 | Small silver gilt cup containing Holy Oil | In memory of Shushan Joseph Ter Chater | 1800 |
| 4 | 3 | Large silver candlesticks with shaped triangular feet | – | – |
| 5 | 12 | Small candlesticks to match above | – | – |
| 6 | 12 | Silver candlesticks with plain beaded stem and feet | – | – |
| 7 | 2 | Silver candlesticks with bases and chased leaves on stem | In memory of Miss E.A. Demetrius | – |
| 8 | 4 | Silver candlesticks with chased fluted based and shaped stem | Mrs. M. Emin | 1858 |
| 9 | 4 | Silver candlesticks | By M.T. | 1907 |
| 10 | 2 | Silver chased splendours with plain silver stands | – | – |
| 11 | 4 | Silver chased splendours without stands | – | – |
| 12 | 1 | Solid silver gilt salver with 8 miniature goblets | – | – |
| 13 | 2 | Solid silver diamond cut bowls | – | – |
| 14 | 1 | Solid silver engraved bowl | In memory of Miss E.A. Demetrius | 1884 |
| 15 | 1 | Plain solid silver wash hand bowl with a solid silver ewer chased cutch pattern | – | – |
| 16 | 1 | Plain solid silver wash hand bowl with solid silver ewer chased cutch pattern as above but smaller | – | – |
| 17 | 2 | Solid silver incense burners, plain | – | – |
| 18 | 3 | Solid chased silver swinging incense burners with chains | – | – |
| 19 | 2 | Diamond cut solid silver sockets for large candles | In memory of Aga Joseph Eminiii | – |
| 20 | 1 | Silver gilt chased incense holder with silver spoon | In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Philip A. George | 1856 |
| 21 | 2 | Silver chased incense holders | – | – |
| 22 | 2 | Solid silver hanging lamps with covers and chains | – | – |
| 23 | 1 | Solid silver chased frame and cover for holding lamp | – | – |
| 24 | 1 | Silver gilt flagon with stopper complete | Mrs. Mary Eliza Moses3 above | 1878 |
| 25 | 2 | Solid silver book rests in the shape of a Lyre | In memory of Hosannah Jacob Johannes | 1837 |
| 26 | 1 | Silver chalice with paten | In memory of Mary and Shamir8, the wife and son of Joseph David Melik Beglarovian | – |
| 27 | 1 | Silver Chalice with paten | In memory of John Joseph Mylne, born 1884 and drowned in river Pudda 1900 | 1900 |
| 28 | 1 | Silver Chalice with paten | By Catherine G. Bagram | – |
| 29 | 1 | Silver Chalice with paten | – | – |
| 30 | 1 | Silver Chalice with paten | In memory of Hovanness, son of Arathoon of Khorom | 1750 |
| 31 | 1 | Silver cross with chased figures on each side, set with a cross of thick glass containing relics of St. George | Presented by Johannes Agha Minas | 1863 |
| 32 | 1 | Large silver casket chased and engraved on top and sides | In memory of Mariamkhanoom, daughter of Juntloomentz Catchick Arakiel, for St. “Nicholas” Arm | – |
| 33 | 1 | Large silver bowl for washing of the feet | Bought by the church | 1870 |
| 34 | 1 | Large solid silver Baptismal bowl with massive silver scroll, handle forming 3 branches for candles | In memory of Sogom[9], daughter of Nicholas S. Malchas, born 1837, died 1851 | 1851 |
| 35 | 1 | Solid silver gilt Monstrance, chased in high relief with flowers | In memory of Carapiet, son of Petros | 1813 |
| 36 | 5 | Large silver crosses with ball at bases | – | – |
| 37 | 1 | Very large silver cross with ball and socket at bottom with chased figures lined with wood | – | – |
| 38 | 1 | Silver gilt chased mitre with Vakas | In memory of Isagooli, son of Petros of Hamadan | 1797 |
| 39 | 1 | Solid silver Belt clasp | By Ripsimeh T.A. Apcar[10] | 1857 |
| 40 | 1 | Solid silver Belt clasp | In memory of Elizabeth Abraham, daughter-in-law of Aga Hovanness, the son of Khoja Minas | – |
| 41 | 1 | Solid silver Belt clasp | By J.S.G. | – |
| 42 | 1 | Solid silver Belt clasp | – | – |
| 43 | 1 | Solid silver Belt clasp | In memory of Emin Joseph[iii] | 1809 |
| 44 | 1 | Mother-of-pearl antique seal | Of Chater George Ter Simon | 1766 |
| 45 | 1 | Mother-of-pearl antique seal | Of George Chater George | 1793 |
| 46 | 1 | Mother-o’-pearl antique seal | Of Chater George | 1765 |
| 47 | 4 | Silver pencil cases | – | – |
| 48 | 2 | Silver collection bags lined with blue velvet with silver handles | In memory of Mrs. Gabriel George, 1820. Repaired by her grandson P.A. George, 1870 | 1820 |
| 49 | 1 | Large silver stand for Holy Bible with 3 crosses chased on it | In memory of Mr. Arathoon 1817. Repaired at the expense of the Church by A. Stephen & Co., 1902. | 1817 |
| 50 | 2 | Silver octagon lanterns with twisted fluted poles and pierced cross in circle at top | By J.S. | – |
| 51 | 1 | Silver Old and New Testaments bookstand | In memory of Carapiet Jacob Johanness | 1818 |
| 52 | 1 | Silver stand for the above (item 51) | In memory of Carapiet Jacob Johanness | 1818 |
| 53 | 1 | Silver mounted New Testament on above bookstand | In memory of Hosannah David, died at Mussoorie 1898 | 1898 |
| 54 | 1 | Oil painting of the crucifixion on wood with silver edges | – | – |
| 55 | 1 | Old small crucifix, copper, silver plated and gilt | – | – |
| 56 | 2 | Large silver chased branches with sockets for candles for reading desk | In memory of Khatoon, the daughter of Agazar korose, by her husband Abraham Pogose | 1798 |
| 57 | 2 | Medium size silver chased branches for candles at reading desk | In memory of Simon, by his father Stephen Simon Stephen[11] | 1870 |
| 58 | 2 | Small size silver branches for candles at reading desk | In memory of Hosannah Mirza Stephen Shakoori | 1817 |
| 59 | 1 | Large massive solid silver chandelier with 18 branches for candles | In memory of Khatoon, the daughter of Agazar Koros, by her husband Abraham Pogose | 1798 |
| 60 | 1 | Small silver chandelier with 6 branches for candles | In memory of Talethy, the wife of Arathoon | 1781 |
| 61 | 1 | Small silver chandelier with 6 branches for candles | Presented to the church | 1800 |
| 62 | 2 | Small silver chandelier with 6 branches for candles | In memory of Mariam, the wife of Martyrose | 1782 |
| 63 | 1 | Small silver chandelier with 6 branches for candles | In memory of Bagram, the son of Sookias | 1785 |
| 64 | 1 | Small silver chandelier with 6 branches for candles | In memory of Merini and her two sons Baboom and Bartholomew, the wife and children of Chater Baboom | 1810 |
| 65 | 2 | 1 mitre and 1 vakas silver parcel, gilt on red velvet and chased with panels | Made at Constantinople at the expense of the Church | – |
| 66 | 1 | Large, oval, handsome silver salver with elaborate chased trellised vine leaf border and cherub heads | Presented to A.C. John by the community of the Calcutta Greek Church, 1874, presented by his widow[12] to the Armenian Church. (Image via Armenian College Museum Facebook page) | 1891 |
| 67 | 1 | Silver cover for Holy Bible, bound in red leather | – | – |
| 68 | 1 | Silver Bible cover, large | – | – |
| 69 | 1 | Silver Bible cover, small | Presented by Mrs. Lizzie Thaddeus[13] | – |
| 70 | 1 | Silver Bible cover, small | Presented by Anna M. Manuk | 1901 |
| 71 | 1 | Silver Bible cover, small | – | – |
| 72 | 1 | Silver Bible cover, small | – | – |
| 73 | 1 | Silver cover for Holy Bible bound in red velvet (old and damaged) | – | – |
| 74 | 2 | Large solid silver salvers, plain | – | – |
| 75 | 1 | Large solid silver salver, plain | In memory of Gregory Thorose[14] | 1917 |
| 76 | 1 | Large solid silver salvers, plain | In memory of Marieh, wife of Hovannes Ter Aviet | 1804 |
| 77 | 2 | Medium size solid silver salvers | – | – |
| 78 | 1 | Silver cross | Presented by Mr. and Mrs. M.V. Apcarii | 1912 |
| 79 | 1 | Silver gilt cross | Presented by Mr. M.A. Manuk | 1923 |
| 80 | 1 | Silver gilt cross | Presented by Mrs. M. Gregory, to the memory of her mother Anna Apcar[15], born 1851, died 1913 | 1913 |
| 81 | 1 | Silver cross | In memory of Col. Jacob Petros of Gwalior and his wife | 1840 |
| 82 | 1 | Silver cross | In memory of Col. Jacob Petros of Gwalior[iv] [16] | 1837 |
| 83 | 2 | Silver crosses engraved | – | – |
| 84 | 2 | Silver crosses small | – | – |
| 85 | 2 | Silver gilt crosses set with stones | – | – |
| 86 | 2 | Silver crosses, small | – | – |
| 87 | 1 | Silver cross, plain | – | – |
| 88 | 1 | Silver square salver | In memory of Joseph Eminiii | – |
| 89 | 1 | Silver mitre cross | In memory of Mariamkhanoom Chater | – |
| 90 | 2 | Small silver candlesticks | Presented by Mrs. S.A. Lucas | 1915 |
| 91 | 2 | Silver candlesticks, plain | – | – |
| 92 | 1 | Silver candlesticks, engraved | – | – |
| 93 | 2 | Silver candlesticks, very small | – | – |
| 94 | 1 | Silver box containing 1 silver goblet, 2 candlesticks, 1 bottle for carrying Holy Sacrament | Presented by Eliza A. Moses and his wife Mary3 | 1894 |
| 95 | 1 | Large silver ewer | In memory of all those who are buried in the church | 1895 |
| 96 | 1 | Small silver bowl | Presented by Mrs. Begoom Johannes in memory of her husband | 1825
|
| 97 | 1 | Silver and gilt saint’s arm containing relics of Virgin Ripsimeh | Presented by Mrs. Begoom Johannes in memory of her husband | 1825 |
| 98 | 1 | Silver and gilt saint’s arm containing relics of St. John | Presented by Basil, S.A. Catchick | – |
| 99 | 1 | Silver and gilt saint’s arm containing relicts of St. Stephen and St. Nicholas | Made by son of Basil | – |
| 100 | 1 | Silver and gilt Saint’s arm containing relics of St. Gregory | – | – |
| 101 | 1 | Silver saints’ arm containing relics | – | – |
| 102 | 1 | Silver saints’ arm containing relics | – | – |
| 103
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1 | Silver saints’ arm containing relics | – | – |
| 104 | 1 | Silver saints’ arm containing relics | – | – |
| 105 | 1 | Silver saints’ arm containing relics | – | – |
| 106 | 1 | Silver goblet | Presented by C.M. Shircore | |
| 107 | 1 | Large brass lectern with cross on top | Presented by Mr. Ruben A. Creet in memory of his father Arratoon Hyrapiet Creet[17] | 1924 |
| 108 | 1 | Solid silver plate chased and engraved on above Lectern | Presented by Mrs. Mary Arratoon Hyrapiet Creet in memory of her husband16 | 1919 |
| 109 | 1 | Small silver box, gilt | By Aveit Ter Thaddeus | 1851 |
| 110 | 1 | Crosier in 4 pieces, top piece set with stones | Belonging to His Grace Sahak Ayvadian, Prelate of Persia and India | 1922 |
| 111 | 4 | Silver crosses, plain | – | – |
| 112 | 4 | Silver mitre crosses | – | – |
| 113 | 2 | Silver flower vases | In memory of Mrs. Anna C. Avetoom, from her daughter Elizabeth | 1911 |
| 114 | 2 | Silver flower vases | Presented by Mr. David M. Jacob[18] | 1918 |
| 115 | 1 | Silver plated bowl | Presented by Annie Eliazar Nahapiet | – |
| 116 | 6 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 117 | 2
|
Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 118 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 119 | 1 | Silver flower vase | – | – |
| 120 | 6 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 121 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 122 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 123 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 124 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 125 | 1 | Silver flower vase | – | – |
| 126 | 1 | Silver flower vase | – | – |
| 127 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 128 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 129 | 2 | Silver flower vases | – | – |
| 130 | 6 | Silver flower vases different shapes | – | – |
| 131 | 1 | Pair belt clasps, silver | Presented by Martyrose and Catherine Arathoon | 1894 |
| 132 | 115 | Silver crosses for vows | – | – |
| 133 | 6 | Silver goblets, gilt | – | – |
| 134 | 6 | Pairs buckles (4 silver, 2 brass) | – | – |
| 135 | 1 | Silver belt clasp, single | – | – |
| 136 | 1 | Silver cross set with stones and a glass case containing relics | – | – |
| 137 | 1 | Silver cross set with stones and containing relics | – | – |
| 138 | 1 | Silver cross set with glass case with relics | – | – |
| 139 | 1 | Silver cross set with stones and glass case containing relics | – | – |
| 140 | 1 | Silver cross set with rubies and containing relics | – | – |
| 141 | 1 | Silver cross set broken and containing relics | – | – |
| 142 | 1 | Silver and gilt cross with 4 glass cases and another small cross with chain set with stones and containing relics | Presented by Ter Stepannos, son of Alexander | – |
| 143 | 1 | Silver box for carrying Holy Sacrament | Marked Armenian Church, Calcutta | – |
| 144 | 1 | Silver and gilt box for carrying Holy Sacrament | – | – |
| 145 | 1 | Small silver box for Communion | – | – |
| 146 | 1 | Small silver bowl, gilt inside | – | – |
| 147 | 1 | Silver cross set with white stones, made in Russia | – | – |
| 148 | 1 | Bag containing broken silverware | – | – |
| 149 | 1 | Heart shaped silver box and chain containing relics | – | – |
| 150 | 2 | Wooden crosses with silver edges | -= | – |
| 151 | 1 | Large incense burner with tray and branches for candles | – | – |
| 152 | 1 | Silver covered 3 tiered table with Communion | – | – |
| 153 | 1 | Silver cross set with stone in centre | – | – |
| 154 | 1 | Silver cross with glass case in centre containing relics | In memory of Petros and his father Michael and his wife Mary, presented through Stepanos Vardapet by Jacob | 1754 |
| 155 | 1 | Silver chalice with paten | Presented by Ishkhan M. Zorab1 | 1854 |
| 156 | 1 | Rose water sprinkler, silver | – | – |
| 157 | 1 | Rose water sprinkler, silver | – | – |
| 158 | 2 | Candlesticks, silver | – | – |
| 159 | 1 | Silver bowl, plain | – | – |
| 160 | 1 | Silver bowl | Presented by John M. Apcar[19] | 1907 |
| 161 | 1 | Silver belt and buckle | – | – |
| 162 | 1 | Silver belt clasp | – | – |
| 163 | 4 | Silver mitre crosses | – | – |
| 164 | 1 | Silver salver, small | – | – |
| 165 | 1 | Silver soup ladle | – | – |
| 166 | 1 | Silver server | – | – |
| 167 | 3 | Silver spoons | – | – |
| 169 | 2 | Copper chandeliers for candles | – | – |
| 169 | 22 | Copper branches for candles | – | – |
| 170 | 6 | Plated candlesticks | – | – |
| 171 | 2 | Large brass candlesticks | – | – |
| 172 | 2 | Small candlesticks | – | – |
| 173 | 3 | Large brass triangular shape base candlesticks | – | – |
| 174 | 3 | Copper candlesticks | – | – |
| 175 | 1 | Copper circular basin (Thast) | – | – |
| 176 | 2 | Brass branches for candles | – | – |
| 177 | 2 | Brass branches for candles | – | – |
| 178 | 1 | Silver small box for carrying Communion | – | – |
| 179 | 1 | Large kettle, copper | – | – |
| 180 | 1 | Water jar, copper | – | – |
| 181 | 6 | Large curtains | – | – |
| 182 | 4 | Medium size curtains | – | – |
| 183 | 8 | Small size curtains | – | – |
| 184 | 12 | Purdahs | – | – |
| 185 | 23 | Old shoorjars or cloaks | – | – |
| 186 | 7 | Old aprons | – | – |
| 187 | 5 | Complete sets of silk vestments | – | – |
| 188 | 3 | Complete sets of vestments, rich embroidery and valuable silk | – | – |
| 189 | 6 | Mitres | – | – |
| 190 | 2 | Embroidered table covers | – | – |
| 191 | 8 | Pieces vestments, very old | Presented by Mr. A. Stephen and J.C. Galstaun[20] | 1922 |
| 192 | 1 | Silver frame and painting of Virgin Mary | – | – |
| 193 | 1 | Silver candlestick | – | – |
| 194 | 3 | Silver clasps for church peons
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– | – |
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OIL PAINTINGS
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| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Altar-piece in 3 parts, representing the Holy Trinity, the “Last Supper” and the Enshrouding of Our Lord | In memory of Carapiet and Hosannah Balthazar by their children[21] | 1902 |
| 2 | 1 | Old and damaged alter-piece | – | – |
| 3 | 1 | Oil painting of the Crucifix on wood | – | – |
| 4 | 2 | Oil paintings representing the Saviour | – | – |
| 5 | 1 | Alter-piece, representing the Crucifix | In memory of Jacob, son of Annania, to the Church of St. Sarkies in the town of Yawith in Armenia | 1 October 1809 |
| 6 | 1 | Altar-piece, representing the Saviour with his hands tied up | Marked Ecce Home | – |
| 7 | 1 | Oil painting on copper, representing Virgin Mary | In memory of Pogose and Zemrooth, children of Sahak and Mariam Khanoon, wife of Hovannes | 1808 |
| 8 | 1 | Oil painting on copper, presenting the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary | – | – |
| 9 | 1 | Oil painting representing the Saviour with his hands tied up | – | – |
| 10 | 2 | Oil paintings of Virgin Mary | – | – |
| 11 | 1 | Oil painting on copper, representing the Baptism of Christ | – | – |
| 12 | 1 | Oil painting on glass, representing the Birth of Christ | – | – |
| 13 | 2 | Small oil painting on wood, representing the Crucifix | – | – |
| 14 | 1 | Large oil painting of Virgin Mary and Christ | – | – |
| 15 | 1 | Large oil painting, representing the coat of arms of Armenia and the pictures of Haik, Aram, Tigran and Great and Terdat the Great | – | – |
| 16 | 1 | Painting of his Grace Sahak Ayvadian, Archbishop of Persia and India | Presented by Mr. Mackertich | 1909 |
| 17 | 2 | Small oil paintings of His Holiness Neirses Catholicos | – | – |
| 18 | 1 | Oil painting of Mr. Aganoor, a teacher of the Armenian College | – | – |
| 19 | 1 | Oil painting of Mr. Arathoon Apcar | Presented by the Hon. J.G. Apcar | 1923 |
| 20 | 1 | Oil painting of Mr. Gregory Apcar[22] | Presented by the Hon. J.G. Apcar[23] | 1923 |
| 21 | 1 | (Roll of paper) manuscript of different prayers | – | – |
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CLOCKS
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| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Tower clock with 1 dial, brought out from England at the expense of Catchick Arakiel22 in the year 1792. Repaired and 2 more dials added during the Wardenship of Johanness Avdall[24] in 1838, by L. Grey, Calcutta. | Clocks made by Alexander Hare, 1791 | 1792 |
| 2 | 1 | Large clock originally belonging to Chinsurah Church, made in Amsterdam by I.M. Juntis | – | – |
| 3 | 1 | Round clock by Cooke and Kelvey | – | – |
| 4 | 1 | Round clock by Bennett | – | – |
| 5 | 1 | Large clock | Presented by Mr. J. Boisogomoff[25] | 1923 |
| 6 | 3 | Ordinary clocks | – | – |
| 7 | 1 | Church bell made in 1752 | – | – |
| 8 | 1 | Church bell made in 1757 | – | – |
| 9 | 3 | Church bells without dates | – | – |
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FURNITURES
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| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Teak wood table | In memory of Mrs. Mary Thaddeus C. Avetoom, by her son Avetoom[26] | 1900 |
| 2 | 1 | Teak wood small table | Presented by Arathoon Thomas Apcar[27] | 1904 |
| 3 | 2 | Clay slabs representing coat of arms of Armenia
|
– | – |
| 4 | 254 | Armed chairs | – | – |
| 5 | 85 | Armless chairs | – | – |
| 6 | 1 | Bishop’s chair | – | – |
| 7 | 1 | Telescopic table | – | – |
| 8 | 3 | Round tables | – | – |
| 9 | 5 | Marble top tables | – | – |
| 10 | 4 | Tea poys | – | – |
| 11 | 8 | Bedsteads | – | – |
| 12 | 1 | Iron bedstead | – | – |
| 13 | 14 | Almirahs | – | – |
| 14 | 5 | Glass almirahs | – | – |
| 15 | 1 | Book shelf | – | – |
| 16 | 8 | Clothes horses | – | – |
| 17 | 6 | Linen baskets | – | – |
| 18 | 1 | Typewriter – English | – | – |
| 19 | 1 | Press copying press – Armenian | – | – |
| 20 | 14 | Benches | – | – |
| 21 | 5 | Wooden partitions | – | – |
| 22 | 8 | Wooden half doors | – | – |
| 23 | 6 | Writing tables | – | – |
| 24 | 3 | Toilet tables | – | – |
| 25 | 1 | Meatsafe almirah | – | – |
| 26 | 4 | Side boards | – | – |
| 27 | 1 | Invalid couch | – | – |
| 28 | 5 | Reading desks | – | – |
| 29 | 250 | Foot rests | – | – |
| 30 | 4 | Easy chairs | – | – |
| 31 | 73 | Photos and pictures | – | – |
| 32 | 1 | Stationery cabinet | – | – |
| 33 | 4 | Maps | – | – |
| 34 | 4 | Brass jardinières | – | – |
| 35 | 36 | Electric fans | Presented by Mr. J. Boisogomoff21 | 1902 |
| 36 | 3 | Electric table fans | – | – |
| 37 | 3 | Large carpets | – | – |
| 38 | 19 | Small carpets | – | – |
| 39 | 3 | Iron safes | – | – |
| 40 | 2 | Wooden collection boxes | – | – |
| 41 | 3 | Large wooden boxes | – | – |
| 42 | 7 | Small tables | – | – |
| 43 | 1 | Secretariat table | – | – |
| 44 | 11 | Electric chandeliers | – | – |
| 45 | 1 | Large framed picture, representing the “Last Supper” | – | – |
| 46 | 1 | Large hanging lamp | – | – |
| 47 | 5 | Street lamps | – | – |
| 48 | 1 | Motor car | – | – |
St. John’s Church Chinsurah
| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Large baptismal silver bowl | Presented by Mr. and Mrs. M.V. Apcarii in memory of their son Arathoon | 1905 |
| 2 | 1 | Solid silver hanging lamp | ||
| 3 | 1 | Solid silver book stand | ||
| 4 | 2 | New Testaments with silver crosses on them | ||
| 5 | 1 | Large silver Old and New Testament book stand | In memory of Hovanjan Eliza | 1825 |
| 6 | 1 | Silver cross plain | For the use of St. John’s Church | 1804 |
| 7 | 1 | Silver cross plain | Presented by Sarah Johanness | 1899 |
| 8 | 1 | Silver cross, gilt | In memory of Mariam[28], the wife of Joseph David Melik Baglarovian | 1883 |
| 9 | 1 | Silver cross | Presented by Mr. and Mrs. J.S. Abraham[29] | 1921 |
| 10 | 1 | Silver cross | Presented by Emeli C.J. Avetoom | 1901 |
| 11 | 2 | Diamond cut solid silver sockets for large candles | In memory of Agha Joseph Eminiii | |
| 12 | 1 | Silver belt clasp | Presented by Sarah S.A. Apcar, in memory of Mrs. Sarkies A. Apcar | 1802 |
| 13 | 1 | Silver Monstrance | Presented by Arathoon G. Gregory[30] in memory of his parents | 1847 |
| 14 | 1 | Bookstand in the shape of a Lyre | Presented by Sahak George Jacob in memory of his parents | 1847 |
| 15 | 1 | Diamond cut silver bowl | In memory of Carapiet Jacob Johanness | 1817 |
| 16 | 1 | Silver belt clasp | In memory of Agha Catchick husband of Mariamkhanoom | 1797 |
| 17 | 1 | Saint’s gilt arm containing relics of St. John | ||
| 18 | 1 | Silver incense holder | ||
| 19 | 1 | Chased solid silver swinging incense burner | ||
| 20 | 2 | Solid silver chandeliers each with 5 branches for candles | Presented in 1805 | 1805 |
| 21 | 1 | Chased silver chalice with paten | In memory of Anna G.M. Shircore[31], the only daughter of Carapiet Jacob | 1840 |
| 22 | 1 | Chased silver chalice with paten | In memory of Vartanness, by his wife Woskoom | 1781 |
| 23 | 1 | Chased silver chalice with paten | In memory of Gregory A. Avetick | 1846 |
| 24 | 1 | Chased silver chalice with paten | In memory of George, son of Ter Simon | 1781 |
| 25 | 1 | Silver cross, plain | ||
| 26 | 4 | Small candlesticks, silver | ||
| 27 | 1 | Silver bowl | ||
| 28 | 1 | Silver bowl | ||
| 29 | 1 | Silver covered New Testament | ||
| 30 | 1 | Solid silver wash hand bowl and ewer | In memory of Ter Hovanness Catchick Arakiel[32] | 1834 |
| 31 | 1 | Wooden box for St. John’s arm and relics | Presented by Johanness Jacob | 1817 |
| 32 | 1 | Large alter-piece (painting) representing “The Crucifix” and The Holy Trinity | ||
| 33 | 1 | Painting of Virgin Mary on glass | ||
| 34 | 1 | New Testament with silver cross on it | ||
| 35 | 1 | Picture “The Crucifix” | ||
| 36 | 1 | Painting on glass representing the descent of the body of Christ from the cross | ||
| 37 | 1 | Wooden cross painted the Crucifix | ||
| 38 | 6 | Silver vow crosses | ||
| 39 | 1 | Gold vow cross | ||
| 40 | 1 | Silver salver | ||
| 41 | 12 | Silver candlesticks | ||
| 42 | 1 | Silver hanging lamp frame | In memory of Vardini Jordan | 1913 |
| 43 | 1 | Large chandelier for 10 candles | ||
| 44 | 3 | Large chandeliers for 6 candles | ||
| 45 | 12 | Brass branches for 2 candles | ||
| 46 | 1 | Large hanging lamp | ||
| 47 | 3 | Wooden reading desks with 3 pairs brass candlesticks | ||
| 48 | 1 | Small wooden reading desk | ||
| 49 | 12 | Brass candlesticks | ||
| 50 | 12 | Plated candlesticks | ||
| 51 | 6 | Large brass candlesticks | ||
| 52 | 12 | Smaller brass candlesticks | ||
| 53 | 3 | Very large brass candlesticks | ||
| 54 | 5 | Small candlesticks | ||
| 55 | 2 | Street lamps | ||
| 56 | 4 | Large china vases | ||
| 57 | 12 | Large china vases | ||
| 58 | 8 | Metal vases | ||
| 59 | 3 | Almirahs | ||
| 60 | 3 | Large carpets | ||
| 61 | 1 | Small carpet | ||
| 62 | 3 | Large purdahs | ||
| 63 | 10 | small purdahs | ||
| 64 | 30 | Altar cloths, table covers, vestments etc. | ||
| 65 | 1 | Telescopic table | ||
| 66 | 1 | Clock | ||
| 67 | 1 | Writing table | ||
| 68 | 41 | Armed chairs | ||
| 69 | 49 | Chairs armless | ||
| 70 | 14 | Square tables | ||
| 71 | 1 | Brass gong | ||
| 72 | 4 | Beds | ||
| 73 | 1 | Linen basket | ||
| 74 | 2 | Clothes horses | ||
| 75 | 3 | Tea poys | ||
| 76 | 3 | Benches | ||
| 77 | 2 | Whatnots | ||
| 78 | 1 | Gown stand | ||
| 79 | 1 | Toilet table | ||
| 80 | 2 | Kitchen tables | ||
| 81 | 60 | Foot rests | ||
| 82 | 2 | Old durries | ||
| 83 | 4 | Church bells |
Karya Church of St. Gregory, Calcutta (aka The Small Church)
| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Altar-piece oil painting | ||
| 2 | 1 | Oil painting on glass, representing the Crucifix | Presented to Ter Hovsep Stephen | 1796 |
| 3 | 1 | Small oil painting on copper, representing the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary | – | – |
| 4 | 48 | Armed chairs | – | – |
| 5 | 48 | Foot stools | – | – |
| 6 | 1 | Large curtain | – | – |
| 7 | 2 | Small curtains | – | – |
| 8 | 2 | Coffin tables | – | – |
| 9 | 2 | Ladders | – | – |
| 10 | 1 | Wooden partition | – | – |
| 11 | 3 | Large candlesticks, copper | – | – |
| 12 | 2 | Glass chandeliers | – | – |
| 13 | 23 | Copper candlesticks | – | – |
| 14 | 6 | Glass candlesticks | – | – |
Tangra Holy Church of the Resurrection, Calcutta
| Serial No. | Quantity | Articles | In memory of | Year |
| 1 | 1 | Altar-piece oil painting | In memory of Hovanjan Petros[33] | 1786 |
| 2 | 1 | Silver cross | In memory of Pirmargar, son of Mirjan | 1730 |
| 3 | 3 | Glass chandeliers | – | – |
| 4 | 2 | Glass chandeliers small | – | – |
| 5 | 12 | Copper candlesticks | – | – |
| 6 | 2 | Large curtains | – | – |
| 7 | 8 | Small curtains | – | – |
| 8 | 1 | Reading desk | – | – |
| 9 | 12 | Benches | – | – |
| 10 | 2 | Coffin tables and covers | – | – |
| 11 | 2 | Foot rests | – | – |
| 12 | 2 | Durries | – | – |
| 13 | 5 | Large pictures | – | – |
| 14 | 1 | Teakwood table | – | – |
| 15 | 6 | Armless chairs | – | – |
| 16 | 1 | Dressing table | – | – |
| 17 | 1 | Bedstead | – | – |
| 18 | 2 | Church bells | – | – |
[1] I believe this is quite likely to be Mrs. Ishkhan Manuk ZORAB. The ZORAB family were an extremely important Armenian family of Calcutta, whose descendants are now spread around the world; from New Zealand to Southampton in the UK.
[2] I believe this is Stephen George Bagram, a major benefactor of the Armenian Church, Calcutta – see his grave
[3] I believe this is Eliaz Owen Moses who was an attorney to the Armenian community of Calcutta
[4] Ethel died on the 30th June 1902 aged 18 years 1 month and 1 day – see her grave
[5] The AVETOOM family are connected to many Armenian families of Calcutta: Agabeg, Galstaun, Apcar, Moses, Thaddeus, Arathoon, Nahapiet, to name but a few.
[6] I believe this to be Hovhannes Manuk Zorab of the Bengal Medical Service – see his grave
[7] Catchick Thaddeus Avetoom died 17 April 1906 – see his grave
[8] Shamir Beglar died 25 August 1833 in Chinsurah – see his grave
[9] Miss Sogom Malchus, born 29 November 1837, died 3 June 1851. Father: Nicholas Isaac Malchus, mother: Teki Owen
[10] Mrs. Hripsima Matilda APCAR nee AVEDICK – see grave.
[11] Stephen Simon STEPHEN married Katrina GREGORY at the Armenian Church Calcutta on 12 November 1867, the loss of their infant child Simon was a terrible blow to the family. Katrina GREGORY’s family was large, and today they live around the world; New Zealand, Florida, various parts of the UK, Australia, USA to name but a few.
[12] Aristide C. JOHN was Greek by birth. His wife Sarah nee PAUL was the daughter of the extremely and highly regarded Armenian attorney, Peter Jacob PAUL who was the trusted legal adviser of the Armenian Church Calcutta for over two decades and who offered all legal advise and guidance to them without any charge. The PAUL family are intrinsically linked with the GREEKS of Calcutta, as one of Sarah’s brothers, Sir Gregory Charles PAUL also served the Armenian Community. It is claimed that, although he served as a loyal and dedicated member of the Armenian community for over 30 years during which time, like his father, all his legal advice was given free of any fees to the Armenian Church, upon Sir Gregory’s death the Armenian Church committee refused to allow him to be buried in the grounds of the Armenian Church Calcutta and he was therefore subsequently buried in the Greek Church cemetery.
[13] Lizzi Thaddeus nee ARRAKIEL was married to Thaddeus Mesrope THADDEUS – see graves. Lizzie was a niece to Sir Catchick Paul Chater, and her ancestry can be traced as far back as 1650 to the Minas family dynasty of New Julfa.
[14]Gregory Tharverdy Thorose – see grave
[15] Anna – see grave. She was married to Alexander APCAR. They had 4 daughters; this silver cross was presented by her daughter Minnie who was married to John Marchmont GREGORY.
[16] Descendants exist today through his sons David PETRUS and Owen Jacob PETRUS.
[17] Arratoon Hyrapiet CREET was married to Merghatoon (Mary) B. Hovakim her family was very large with many connections to almost every major Armenian family of Calcutta: the Lucas, Malcolm, Michael, Gasper, Johannes, Zeytoon, Mesrope, Zorab, Aganoor, George, Martin, Emin, Arathoon, Chater, Joseph, Marcar, Hyrapiet, Thaddeus, Avetoom, Jordan, Sarkies, Carapiet, Basil, Galestin and more. Arratoon Hyrapiet CREET’S brother Peter Hyrapiet CREET was a major contributor and benefactor of the Armenian College of Calcutta, famously donating the swimming pool, amongst other things. He died at Trieste in northern Italy and is buried at the Armenian Roman Catholic Mekhitharist Monastary on the island of San Lazarro near Venice opposite the tomb of Abbot Mekhithar the Founder of the Mekhitharist Order.
[18] David Minas JACOB, born 9th October 1900
[19] John Minas APCAR was the son of Minas Vertannes APCAR. See endnoteii
[20] Both Arratoon Stephen and Johannes Carapiet Galstaun were major contributors and benefactors of the Armenian Church of Calcutta. See their graves.
[21] Known as ‘Car’ Balthazar, he was a merchant and auctioneer but became a jeweller to King Theebaw who reigned in Burma from 1878 to 1885. The King gave Car’s wife Hosannah a valuable necklace, which became a family heirloom until it was stolen in London. Hosannah was a half sister to Lizzie Thaddeus nee ARRAKIEL mentioned above.
[22] Gregory APCAR died 23rd June 1847 – see grave. Gregory Apcar stated in a Deed of Trust dated 25th March 1913, that his firm, Apcar & Co., had for many years provided certain yearly sums for support and maintenance of relatives and descendants of his grandfather and grandmother living in Julpha and the neighbourhood and that Gregory Apcar was desirous of continuing such provision. Gregory’s first wife, Khatchkhathoon SARKIES was the daughter of Johannes Ter SARKIES and Elizabeth ARRAKIEL, whose own father Catchick ARRAKIEL had donated the clock in the tower of the Armenian Church, Calcutta.
[23] Johannes G. APCAR was a son of Gregory Apcar and brother to Arathoon APCAR.
[24] Johannes Avdall was headmaster of the Armenian College Calcutta for 45 years. He married Tekli Sarkies on the 11th December 1830 at the Armenian Church. Tekli’s father was Johannes Ter Sarkies and her mother was Elizabeth Arrakiel. Elizabeth Arrakiel’s father was Catchick Arrakiel who donated the clock still position in the tower of the Armenian Church today.
[25] Buried at Tangra, but his grave is badly worn and cannot be read. However, On a black marble tablet fixed on the outside south wall of the church, it says “This tablet is erected as a mark of remembrance of the kindness of Mr. John Boisogomoff of Tiflis in furnishing the church and the 1st and 2nd flats of the Parochial buildings with 39 electric fans and wiring for installation on the 27th January 1902”
[26] A number of Armenians worked at the Calcutta Stock Exchange, several of whom were members of the Calcutta Stock Exchange Association.
Major T.C. Avetoom, was the first Armenian to establish his own firm at the Calcutta Stock Exchange. Avetoon worked as an exchange broker before the formation of the Calcutta Stock Exchange Association, of which he became a founder member in 1908 and later a committee member. In 1969 his portrait was hanging in the Stock Exchange Hall.
Avetoom was educated at La Martiniere College, joined the Calcutta Volunteer Rifle Corps, attained the rank of major and was appointed the commandant of his corps. He was an exceptionally good shot and when a captain won two medals. One was presented to him by members of the “B” Company Challenge Shield Team and the other by the First Battalion of the Calcutta Volunteer Rifle Corps. When he was a major he was presented with a marble clock (dated 1892) by the “4” Inter-Company Contingent.
[27] He was part of the APCAR clan, a barrister. He died 20 March 1905.
[28] Mariam was Joseph’s first wife. She died 25 November 1878 – see grave.
[29] Mary Abraham’s family (nee Sarkies) was from Chinsurah, her father Abraham Joseph Sarkies is buried there – see grave.
[30] Arathoon Galistan GREGORY born 28 April 1804 Smyrna, Turkey, died 26 December 1867 Calcutta – see grave.
[31] Anna married George Manuk SHIRCORE 12th June 1838 at the Armenian Church Calcutta. They had 8 children, Anna died 14th March 1851 a month after giving birth to a daughter. Anna’s father was Carapiet Jacob and her mother Taghui Arrakiel, was the daughter of Moses Catchick Arrakiel whose own father was Catchick Arrakiel who famously donated the clock to the Armenian Church at Calcutta.
[32] Reverend (Ter) Johanness Catchick Arrakiel had been ordained a priest for the service of the Armenian church of St. John the Baptist, at Chinsurah at the special desire of his pious mother, died at Calcutta on the 29th October 1832 aged 52 years, and was buried inside the church of Nazareth where both his parents and elder brother are interred, in the north side.
[33] From the Inventory of his Will and possessions it is estimated that he died between 1786-1797
[i] A successful merchant of Calcutta, he was the head of the Armenian community there and was held in high esteem by his compatriots for his benevolence and his charities.
He built the beautiful Armenian Church at Saidabad near Murshidabad in 1758, entirely at his own expense in memory of his parents. There was a brass tablet on the north wall of the Armenian church at Saidabad, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, with an inscription in Armenian, from which it appears that the church was built by Khojah Petrus to the memory of his revered parents, Arathoon his father and Hosannah his mother, Dastagool his wife, Khojah Gregory (Gorgin Khan) and Agah Barsegh (Basil) his brothers and all his blood relations, whether dead of alive. This tablet is now in the picture gallery of the Armenian Church at Calcutta.
In addition, he repaired and embellished the Armenian Church of Calcutta in 1763, and built two additional altars inside the church, one of the right side of the main altar, in memory of his brother Gorgin Khan, who was assassinated near Monghyr, and the other on the left side to commemorate his memory. Joseph Emin, an Armenian of Calcutta, in his “Life and Adventures” book printed in 1792 in London, calls Khojah Petrus “the early God of the Calcutta Armenians” which clearly shows the high esteem in which he was held by his countrymen.” Source: Armenians in India by Mesrovb Seth P.345.
[ii] Mrs. M.V. Apcar’s name was Louise nee Malchus. Her husband, Minas Vertannes Apcar came to India from Persia in 1876 at 14 years of age with only the clothes he was wearing. Funded by his second cousin Alexander “Fat Alec” Apcar, fourteen years his senior, he was sent to St Xaviers (for 6 months) and the Armenian Colleges (for 1 year) to study, and equipped himself with some business skills. He entered the firm of Burn & Co, but after a short while joined Apcar and Demetrius. He left to set up his own business holding jute agencies, then becoming successively a Zemindar and Colliery owner.
Apcar was interested in various concerns. He owned jute presses at Ghaora hat, Dewan hat, Baneswar, Balarumpur, Kakinee, Haitibanda, Baura, Gauripur, and Dubri. He also owned a colliery at Joyrampore (Jharia Field), was a agent for the Seang Line of Steamers plying between India and Chinese ports, and owner of several houses in Calcutta. He was a member of the Bengal chamber of Commerce, the Legislative Council and the Corporation, and a warden of the Armenian Church [in Calcutta]. Source: Liz Chater research and Armenian Settlements in India by Annie Basil P.141.
[iii] Joseph Emin was born in Hamadan, Iran, in 1726, and came to India for his education.
Being intensely patriotic, he set himself the task of endeavouring to rescue his countrymen from the yoke of anti-Christian oppressors. With hardly any resources at his disposal, he went to England for a course of military training, which he succeeded in obtaining through the generosity and help of the English aristocracy, with whom he became acquainted and whose sympathy for the cause of his compatriots he was able to enlist.
After succeeding in his objective, he set out for Armenia via Turkey and Georgia, his aim being the organization of a joint force of Armenians and Georgians for attainment of freedom. Unfortunately, he met with very serious opposition everywhere and, after long struggles and extensive travels lasting over two decades, he was compelled to abandon his plan and return to India. He passed away in Calcutta in 1809 and was laid to rest in the churchyard of the Armenian Holy Church of Nazareth.
WhiIe he was not able to render material help to his community in Calcutta, his zeal, enthusiasm and great patriotism are unforgettable, and his undaunted spirit and unceasing efforts stand as a praiseworthy example for his Nationals.
At the suggestion of his friends, Joseph Emin wrote his Memoirs in English, translations of which, in Armenian, are expected to be published in America shortly. A book entitled “The Life and Adventures of Joseph Emin”, containing his memoirs, letters to friends, and experiences, was compiled and published by his great-great-granddaughter, the late Miss Amy Apcar. Source: Armenians in Australia and New Zealand, Father Aramais Mirzaian, P.190.
[iv] In 1796, through the munificence of Jacob Petrus, an opulent Armenian merchant of Bombay and a native of Hamadan in Persia, the indispensable national church was erected for divine worship in the Fort. It is situated in Medows Street, where an Armenian priest is maintained for the spiritual requirements of the few Armenian families.
At the foot of the altar of the church is a square tablet with an inscription in Armenian, of which the following is a verbatim translation:
“This holy church was erected in the name of the holy Apostle Peter, during the Patriarchate of His Holiness Lucas, the Catholicos of the Armenians, by the munificence of Mr. Jacob of Hamadan, to the memory of his late parents, Mr. Petrus, his father and Zanazan Khatoon, his mother, the foundation stone of which was laid by Archbishop James, who was on an evangelical tour in India on behalf of the Holy See of Etchmiatzin in the year of our Lord, 1796, on the 14th day of Thirah (12th October).” Source: Armenians in India by Mesrovb Seth P.294