Celebrating 50 years: 1965 - 2015
July 2015
Press Release
In search of memories of Shrewsbury Market Hall
Shrewsbury Market Hall marks its 50th anniversary in September and to help with celebrations bosses are seeking out people's memories, photographs, artwork and stories of the building for a major exhibition.
The Market Hall, which includes the town's 240ft clock tower, an indoor market and a ground-floor shopping centre, was hailed "the most modern building" in Shropshire when it opened in September 1965.
Developed by the Second Covent Garden Property Company Ltd to replace an ailing Victorian market hall, it cost £1 million to build and was designed by London architect David du Roi Aberdeen who famously designed the Trade Union Congress headquarters, Congress House, in London.
Today the indoor market is thriving with over 70 small businesses ranging from popular contemporary cafes and gift retailers to artisan producers and traditional market stalls selling fresh produce.
"We're searching for all types of memories, photographs, artwork and artefacts that can help to bring alive the history of this building and the characters and people who have been part of its story over five decades," said facilities manager Kate Gittins.
Over 20 years ago the market even attracted stars such as The Bachelors, The Nolan Sisters and Cannon and Ball who entertained large crowds for the market's annual Christmas carol charity concerts. The market is keen to trace the public's memories and photos of these performances.
Remarkably all 48,000 bricks used in the construction of the 200ft clock tower, which is topped by a 40ft aluminium finial, were laid by two local brothers, Tom and Fred Clarke who "never dropped a brick". Tom lived in Albert Street and Fred lived in Victoria Street.
"We'd love to hear from them or their relatives and anyone else who was involved in the construction as well as past market traders," added Mrs Gittins.
The Market Hall was commissioned by the old Shrewsbury Corporation. Today it is jointly managed by Shropshire Council, which is responsible for the permanent stalls located around the perimeter of the main market floor and the gallery, and Shrewsbury Town Council which manages the canopied stalls in the centre.
People who have memories, photographs or other material to share for the exhibition are urged to get in touch with the Visual Art Network at admin@visualartnetwork.org.uk, tel: 01743 344906 or visit the VAN Gallery on the gallery floor of the market, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10am-4pm.
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