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'Streynsham Master' (1640-1724) was one of the early pioneers of the British East India Company who served as the Agent of Madras from 27 January 1678 to 3 July 1681. He is credited with having introduced the 'first administrative reforms in the Madras Government'.

Contents

Reforms

Construction of St. Mary's Church

See also

Reforms

He is credited with having introduced the role of a scavenger who was required to remove the dirt and filth of the streets and also empowered to collect the house-tax and other taxes. Watchmen were appointed to guard the settlement at night. Taverns, Hotels, Entertainment-houses and theatres had to be licensed.
To administer justice, two English choulty judges were appointed to hear cases concerning their Indian subjects.

Construction of St. Mary's Church

The St. Mary's Church near Fort St George was constructed in Master's time. The foundation of the church was laid on Lady's Day, 1678. The church was finished in 1680 and was consecrated on 28 October. St. Mary's Church was the first Anglican church to be built in India.

See also

Stransham family.