Discover the history of Stretford Public Hall at our free heritage open day

The Friends of Stretford Public Hall look forward to welcoming local residents to our Heritage Open Day on Sunday 15th September, from 12 noon until 3pm.

Come and learn about the history of this impressive Grade II listed building and the people and events that helped to shape it through the years, turning it into the prominent and valuable community resource it is today.

Visitors will have the chance to tour parts of the building that are not usually open to the public, such as the hall’s clock tower and the vast basement.

Throughout the afternoon we will be showing films about the hall’s most recent history, explaining how our Friends group took on the challenge of managing and restoring the hall.

We will be hosting a tea party, where people are invited to chat about their own histories and connections to the hall. Following the national Heritage Open Day theme of Routes, Networks and Connections, we will explore the networks of people who have been connected to the building over the years, and the route that the building itself has taken throughout the course of its history and its role as a community hub. People will be invited to add their own memories to our timeline.

Kate McGeever, Hall Manager, said: “Stretford Public Hall was built by the philanthropists John and Enriqueta Rylands, and was opened in September 1879, so it is now 145 years old, and has plenty of stories to reveal.

“Many members of the Stretford community have fond memories of the hall. Some will remember it as Stretford Civic Theatre. Lots of our volunteers recall attending events here in their youth, including discos, tea dances and family get togethers, such as wedding receptions.

“Our heritage open day is a chance for people to find out more about the hall’s history and its significance. Visitors are invited to bring along any photos they may have of events they attended at the hall in years gone by, and to share their memories.”

Children will be able to try out a variety of craft activities during the afternoon.

Refreshments and cakes will be available at our café.

The heritage open day will be run by hall staff and volunteers who will be on hand to provide information and answer any questions. Anyone wishing to get involved with the hall can sign up to become a volunteer.