Trowbridge Town Hall

In the heart of Trowbridge, Wiltshire, stands a testament to Victorian grandeur and civic pride: the Trowbridge Town Hall. This architectural gem, a Grade II listed building, has been the focal point of the town's administrative and social life since its opening in 1889. Its storied past and vibrant present make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich history of Trowbridge.

The Genesis of Trowbridge Town Hall

The origins of Trowbridge Town Hall are deeply intertwined with the town's industrial boom in the 19th century. As the cloth industry flourished, the population surged, necessitating the establishment of a local board of health in 1864. By the 1880s, it became evident that Trowbridge needed a municipal building to serve its growing community. Enter Sir William Roger Brown, a prosperous cloth merchant, who generously offered to fund the construction of the town hall to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.

The foundation stone was laid with great ceremony by Mrs. Brown on June 21, 1887. Her dedication speech, invoking divine blessings and celebrating the prosperity enjoyed during Queen Victoria's reign, set the tone for the building's purpose: to benefit the inhabitants of Trowbridge and serve as a lasting memorial to the era's achievements.

An Architectural Marvel

Designed by Alfred Samuel Goodridge of Bath, Trowbridge Town Hall is a stunning example of the Jacobethan style. Constructed from ashlar stone at a cost of £20,000, the building's asymmetrical façade is a visual delight. The central bay, with its arched doorway and elegant balustrade, is crowned by a tall Italianate clock tower with a spire, a striking feature that has become a Trowbridge landmark. The clock itself, crafted by J. W. Benson Ltd. in 1888, adds to the building's historic charm.

Flanking the central bay are two distinctive sections: the left bay boasts a giant round-headed window with intricate tracery, topped by a shaped gable, while the right bay features a large oriel window, also with a shaped gable. These elements, combined with the building's overall grandeur, reflect the pride and ambition of Trowbridge's civic leaders at the time.

A Hub of Civic Activity

Upon its opening by the Duchess of Albany on June 14, 1889, Trowbridge Town Hall quickly became the epicenter of the town's civic life. The principal rooms within – the courtroom, council chamber, and ballroom – served a variety of functions. The courtroom hosted petty sessions, while the council chamber was the meeting place for the Trowbridge Urban District Council, established in 1894.

The ballroom, with its elegant design, became a popular venue for local dances and musical events. In the 1960s, it even played host to performances by legendary rock bands such as Rod Stewart and the Soul Agents, The Who, and Small Faces, cementing its place in the annals of Trowbridge's cultural history.

Royal Visits and Civic Milestones

Trowbridge Town Hall has also been graced by royal visits, most notably by King George V and Queen Mary in November 1917. Their visit underscored the building's importance as a symbol of civic pride and community spirit.

For much of the 20th century, the town hall remained the headquarters of Trowbridge's local government. However, with the formation of the larger West Wiltshire District Council in 1974, the seat of government moved to new offices on Bradley Road. Despite this shift, the town hall continued to play a vital role in the community, serving as a magistrates' court until 2003 and hosting coroners' inquests into the deaths of military personnel.

Revitalization in the 21st Century

Recognizing the building's historical and cultural significance, a group of dedicated residents formed the Trowbridge Town Hall Trust in 2011. Their mission: to restore and revitalize the town hall for future generations. Thanks to their efforts, the building now hosts exhibitions, community events, and cultural activities, breathing new life into this historic structure.

As of 2023-2024, extensive restoration work is underway, funded by the UK Government's Future High Streets fund. Once completed, the Trowbridge Town Hall Trust will hold a long lease, ensuring the building's continued use as a vibrant community hub.

Art and Heritage

Visitors to Trowbridge Town Hall can also appreciate its artistic heritage. Notable works include a bust of Sir William Roger Brown by Edward Sheppard and a portrait of the benefactor by an unknown artist. These pieces serve as reminders of the individuals whose vision and generosity helped shape Trowbridge's civic landscape.

In conclusion, Trowbridge Town Hall is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the town's rich history, community spirit, and enduring pride. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Trowbridge Town Hall promises a fascinating journey through time and a deeper appreciation of this charming Wiltshire town.