AN UNUSUAL CAMP OF BENGAL ARMY IN LAHORE IN 1809;
CPT BENJAMIN BLAKE WRITES ABOUT LAHORE GARDENS.

The history of Lahore is traversed by strange sources. One most unusual article is by Captain Benjamin Blake, who was stationed in Lahore suburbs in 1809. It was only a three week camp, but left strong impressions. He printed his experiences in the Journal of Science and the Arts. It was entitled:

           DESCRIPTION OF THE ROYAL GARDENS OF LAHORE.

Benjamin Blake was born in 1788 and died in 1838. The article is printed and dated1820.It is rather a very early account and may spotlight some things which are relevant for researchers.

Captain Blake is with C.T. Metcalfe, Ambassador of East India Company, and got permission from Ranjeet Singh. He talks of the ruined wall of Lahore City as well as the falling Delhi Gate. He talks of Shalimar Bagh in great detail and mentions three tiers of the  garden. Including details of the buildings and the addition by Ranjeet Singh. Also talks of the novel arrangement of use of water from a well through a bucket system to cool the accommodation of the Sikh ruler.

Captain Blake visits the Mausoleum of Emperor Jahangeer and mentions scanty details. However one interesting thing he adds is the presence of trees of oranges and pomegranates in the courtyard of the mausoleum. He also talks of various fallen buildings of Emirs of Mughal Court. He mentions the white marble jaalis of Lahore Fort.

It is an interesting very early account of the gardens of Lahore but not much is added to our knowledge of same. Any case worthy of being read.