History society looks to honour the past

2:29pm Thursday 16th October 2008

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TENBURY Wells and District History Society is proposing to erect plaques on appropriate buildings in Tenbury, subject to the necessary consents.

Many buildings dating from the 17th and 18th centuries were adapted and refronted in more recent times and thus look less old than they really are. Some have interesting histories that are not readily apparent.

For example, 43-49 Cross Street was erected in 1829 to house Tenbury National School, the forerunner of Tenbury CE Primary School. The school moved to More House in Bromyard Road in 1855 and to its present premises in 1896.

In 1855 the Baptists bought the Cross Street building and it was used as part of the premises of Goffs School. In 1860 the building was converted into the present four houses. The main Goffs School building is now the museum in Cross Street.

Pembroke House got its name because in 1687 it was purchased together with adjoining land, by Pembroke College, Oxford. The revenues from the property were used to benefit Oxford fellowships.

The present Bedford Dials building was erected in 1858 as the Corn Exchange. From 1917 it was used as Tenbury’s cinema until the Regal was built. Temeside House near the bridge, was built in 1837 as the workhouse for the Tenbury district.

It is hoped that the plaques will inform people about the origins of Tenbury’s more interesting buildings. The society would be very pleased to hear from anyone who has information on local buildings or who would like to suggest which buildings should have plaques.

At a later date the society will be consulting interested parties.

Information should be given to the undersigned: Peter Bevis, Westfields Farm Bungalow, Berrington Road, Tenbury Wells, WR15 8EN. Tel: 01584 811719