Note 407 — Chapter XXII · Declining Years of Boulton and Watt—Bereavements—Gregory Watt—Death of Boulton.
Reading edition
The following is the inscription on the mural monument erected to his memory in the side aisle of Handsworth Church, in the composition of which James Watt assisted:—
Sacred to the Memory of Matthew Boulton, F.R.S. By the skilful exertion of a mind turned to Philosophy and Mechanics, The application of a taste correct and refined, And an ardent spirit of enterprize, he improved, embellished, and extended The Arts and Manufactures of his country, Leaving his Establishment of Soho a noble monument of his Genius, industry, and success. The character his talents had raised, his virtues adorned and exalted. Active to discern merit, and prompt to relieve distress, His encouragement was liberal, his benevolence unwearied. Honoured and admired at home and abroad, He closed a life eminently useful, the 17th of August, 1809, Aged 81, Esteemed, loved, and lamented.