10th March 2020
Beautiful, Curious and Rare – highlights of the Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum
Doctor James Taylor made a welcome return visit to the centre for a presentation at the March meeting, held at Blakedown Parish Rooms. On this occasion, the spotlight was on the Russell- Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth.
The museum houses an amazing and extensive collection of works of art, built up by Sir Merton Russell-Cotes (1835-1921). There are some 1600 items in the collection. Sir Merton was born in Wolverhampton, and started work as a travelling hat salesman. He became something of a “wheeler-dealer”. He married his wife Annie (1835-1920) in 1860. Some money came from Annie’s family, and this was used to acquire the leases of two hotels in Scotland. They prospered and subsequently bought the Bath Hotel in Bournemouth in 1876. This was refurbished and became the Royal Bath Hotel in 1880.
Russell-Cotes was Mayor of Bournemouth in 1894/95, he was granted the freedom of the borough in 1908, and was knighted in 1909. He always promoted Bournemouth, and helped ensure the railway came to the town. His art collection grew steadily, and he acquired the imposing Victorian building, East Cliff Hall in 1901, to house his collection. The house was presented to his wife on her 66th birthday and the collection was presented to the town in 1908. The museum opened to the public in 1922.
James Taylor highlighted a number of paintings within the collection. A significant proportion of which are by female artists, including Henrietta Brown (1829-1901), Lucy Elizabeth King-Welch 1869-1958) and Laura Knight (1877-1970). Russell-Cotes travelled widely and bought and sold paintings, so building up the collection. There is an emphasis on the Pre-Raphaelites and links with the Birmingham School of Artists and also Wightwick Manor.
James Taylor illustrated his presentation with a wide selection of images including works by Frank Richards (Birmingham born) (1863-1935), William Powell Frith (1819-1909), Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898), Joseph Edward Southall (1861-1944), Harold Williamson (1898-1972), Alfred Reginald Thompson (1894-1979) and John Brett (1831-1902).
It is clear the museum is well worth a visit. Many people may not be aware of this remarkable collection in Bournemouth. Doctor Taylor’s enthusiasm for the Museum will inspire future visits. The quality of the collection is outstanding.
11th February 2020
Annual General Meeting
The Centre’s annual general meeting was held at Blakedown Parish Rooms. The traditional format was followed, and the President, David Brown, chaired the meeting. He welcomed all those present and expressed his warm thanks to the centre’s officers and committee members for their commitment and hard work. He paid tribute to the late Alan Beaumont, the centre’s treasurer for 16 years, for his service and important contribution to the Centre’s success. He stressed the importance of volunteering, taking part in the work of the centre and of the Trust.
The Chairman, Chris Fonteyn, presented his 31st annual report, he referred to the steady progress and the development of the centre since it was found in 1984. Much had been achieved over the years, and it is a pleasure to support the NT in its important work. The close relationship is greatly valued. He referred to the significant contributions made by the centre’s officers and committee members to its activities and growth. It is a privilege to work with the current dedicated and enthusiastic team. However, it is essential others come forward to serve on the committee and take on roles within the centre. This issue cannot be ignored. Without a policy of phased succession there is a risk that the centre will be unable to function in a few years’ time and may just fade away. We do not want this to happen, but members must take action.
Our centre is a fine example of a successful and vibrant NT supporter group, but the level of membership does need to rise. All members are encouraged to promote the merits and enjoyment of membership, so that we see a positive increase in our numbers.
The chairman reviewed the centre’s various meetings, outings and activities during the year. The overall programme had been well supported by members, and much positive and welcomed feedback was received. In another year of consolidation, members support has remained loyal and satisfying, and the confidence shown in the leadership and administration of the centre is appreciated. )
The Treasurer, Trevor Sidaway, presented the audited accounts. The centre’s finances are in good shape, and there are no concerns. He highlighted the donations made to various NT properties and projects, and the funds raised from the centre’s activities.
The President, officers and committee members were duly re-elected. In recognition to the centre over long periods, awards were presented to Vic Powell (35years), Margaret Duerden (35years), and Roy Fox (20years).
Holly Kemish, fundraising consultant (Midlands Region) addressed the meeting. She thanked the centre for its work in support of the National Trust. She referred to the Trust’s recent 125th anniversary, and various fundraising activities being organised to celebrate this landmark. She also mentioned:
-The aim to strengthen community relationships within properties
-The NT is promoting nature and tree planting
-Work is being undertaken to make visitors to NT properties more welcome
-The Green Academics Project locally at the Clent Hills and open spaces in Birmingham continues to work well
-An update was given on the projects at Sunnycroft (conservatory) and Hanbury Hall (ash pans), relating to Joan White’s legacy. Income from legacies is so important to the NT and has a significant impact
-Regarding recruitment the NT is building on strengths to create a diverse and representative workforce
-The amazing success of secondhand bookshops at properties continues, providing enormous income
Eric Greenwood gave his annual presentation on the destinations to be featured in the forthcoming 2020 outings programme, helping to whet the appetite of members.
Jeff Cope gave the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the meeting.
15th January 2020
The Fleece Inn at Bretforton
The speaker at the centre’s first meeting of 2020 was Nigel Smith, landlord of the Fleece Inn at Bretforton, near Evesham. He has been there for 17 years.
The Fleece Inn is known for folk music, Morris dancing and asparagus. It is a medieval half timbered longhouse dating from about 1400, and is now a traditional village inn. Generations of the Byrd family lived there until 1977. It became a public house in 1848 and was left to the National Trust, acquired in 1978. The Trust owns a number of public houses including the George Inn at Southwark, and the Crown Bar in Belfast.
The Fleece Inn has many interesting artefacts including chairs, ceramics, a cheese press, and an extensive collection of pewter. The pewter is the largest collection outside the Victoria and Albert Museum, mainly made in Bewdley. There is a one handed clock from the Black Forest, dating from the 1730s. Most of the items are associated with the Byrd family.
On the 27th February 2004 a chimney fire at the Fleece caused extensive damage, particularly to the roof. It took 12 hours to get the fire under control. A human chain was formed to remove artefacts from the building. It was rebuilt and £30.000 was spent on the roof tiles alone. There was much engagement with the village.
An Asparagus Festival is held at the Fleece Inn, and asparagus is auctioned to support local charities. Henry Sandon is the patron. The event has featured on BBC’s Countryfile, and a service of celebration takes place in Worcester Cathedral.
Nigel Smith referred to the characters who lived at the Fleece Inn. It is very much part of the local community, and said to be haunted. Hollyhocks thrive around the building. Nigel aims to build on its traditions and welcoming reputation.