IX . CHRONOLOGY OF THE FCO AND ITS BUILDINGS
1253
The first official mention of a King's Secretary (John Maunsell) in the context of foreign affairs.
1479
John Shirwood, first resident English Ambassador, was appointed to Rome. .
1505
On his appointment to Spain John Stile became the first English Ambassador resident at a secular court.
1640
Northern and Southern Departments created.
. 1782
Northern Department becomes Foreign Office, housed at Cleveland Row. Moves to the Cockpit, Whitehall, in 1786 and to Downing Street and Fludyer Street in 1793.
. 1794
'Colonial Office' becomes an accepted term following Henry Dundas's appointment as Secretary for War with nominal I_"esponsibility for the Colonies. Housed in Horse Guards, moves to 14 Downing Street in 1798. and to 13 Downing Street in 1827.
180l
Colonial Affairs became the responsibility of the Secretary of State for War and the Colonies and the name Colonial Office began to come into common use.
1839
Foreign Office and Colonial Office buildings condemned as unfit and unsafe by Report from Select Committee . on Public 路Offices.
1854
Colonial Office separateiy constituted, when all remaining military business hived off.
1856
Introduction of a qualifying examination for FO and Diplomatic Service. Announcement of Open Competition for new offices on site between Parliament Street and S t James's Park.
1858-60
George Gilbert Scott appointed architect of new Foreign Office but Lord Palmerston objects to his Gothic design and 路 an Italian Palladian style prevails. . India Office created and occupies old East India .H ouse in Leadenhall Street, and later, temporary accommodation in the Westminster Palace Hotel, Victoria Street.
1867
New India Office completed.
1868
Foreign Office moves in to new building.
1875
New Colonial and Home Offices completed and open for business.
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