A community group in Staffordshire is setting up a new hub to celebrate a city’s history in one of its most remarkable buildings – which has never before been fully opened up to the public.
Lichfield Discovered will hold workshops, tours, events, talks and displays in The Schoolmaster’s House on St John Street for an initial five-year period, through an agreement with the local council.
The building, which dates back to 1682, was part of Lichfield Grammar School for more than two centuries and educated such luminaries as Samuel Johnson and David Garrick.
It later became a doctor’s surgery and army pay office during World War One, before turning to its present use as council offices.
The former classroom, which was rebuilt in 1849, is now used as a council chamber.
Many historical features remain throughout the building – including wood panelling, fireplaces and a wooden spiral staircase to the attic which was used as a dormitory by boarders and still bears some of their names carved into the doors.
The Lichfield Discovered group includes historians, teachers, community workers and museum curators who all work voluntarily in their own time and are passionate about sharing stories about the area.
They have exciting plans in the pipeline, including:
- Monthly open days (beginning in May) at The Schoolmaster’s House featuring tours of the building.
- Evening events, exploring Lichfield’s history, giving attendees access to archaeology and historical objects.
- Local people will be invited to come and share their own history – including memories, family stories and research.
- Summer activities for the Old School Yard (now a garden facing St John Street) including events during the school holidays.
- Each month, a special exploration of the city or site elsewhere in the district starting from The Schoolmaster’s House.
The group plans to help other community groups and organisations from across the district create changing displays at The Schoolmaster’s House too.
Katie Gomez, chair of Lichfield Discovered, said: “The building really is stunning and is packed with history.
“We’re passionate about using it as a place to share Lichfield’s wider history too and look forward to talking to local people about how we might do that.”
For more information about Lichfield Discovered visit www.lichfielddiscovered.org or follow the group on Facebook.