Spalding Gentlemen’s Society could be moving into Ayscoughfee Hall after offer from South Holland District Council as its Broad Street museum needs renovation
A well-known museum could be moving into Spalding’s historic Ayscoughfee Hall while members await the results of a grant application to refurbish their existing site.
Spalding Gentlemen’s Society has been offered Ayscoughfee Hall Museum as a temporary home while work is carried out on its Broad Street Museum.
The gentlemen’s society – which was founded by Maurice Johnson II in 1710 – holds one of the oldest museum collections in the country but its current site is in need of some renovation.
Chairman of Spalding Gentlemen’s Society, Petronella Keeling said: “This is a great opportunity to build upon our existing collaboration and small displays already in Ayscoughfee.
“We will hear early next year whether we are successful with a grant application to enable renovation to our own Broad Street Museum., In the meantime we will be showcasing some of our local heritage collection with an exhibition ‘Aspects of Spalding’ opening in October in Ayscoughfee Museum.”
The collaboration between Ayscoughfee Hall Museum and the Spalding Gentlemen’s Society will give a greater opportunity to explore local heritage and stories alongside both organisation’s exciting programme of events and activities.
This is a unique opportunity for the Spalding Gentlemen’s Society to have a more visible presence in the family home of their founder, Maurice Johnson II, whose portrait hangs prominently in Ayscoughfee Hall Museum.
Coun Tracey Carter, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Operational Housing said: “We’re very excited at the prospect of having Spalding Gentlemen’s Society move into Ayscoughfee Hall.
“As a council we’re committed to supporting local heritage and this collaboration will allow a greater number of residents and visitors to see and appreciate South Holland’s fascinating history.”
This arrangement is subject to a five day call-in period, under the council’s procedures.
