50th anniversary issue: Saving a century
No. 27 March 2008
This issue, as we celebrate 50 years since the first meeting of the Society on 25 February 1958 in the drawing room at Linley Sambourne House, we can be forgiven for being a little introspective. It's curious how opinions about Victorian architecture have changed. Now, cab drivers and corporate leaders alike will unhesitatingly tell you how beautiful they find St Pancras Station whereas even ten years ago admiration was accorded only grudgingly if at all.
Popular credit for saving St Pancras has gone to cuddly Sir John Betjeman. But, as Simon Jenkins wrote in The Guardian, 'the true saviour of St Pancras [was] the Victorian Society, which single-handedly fought ... ministers and railwaymen'
Fifty not out Mark Girouard describes the Society's inaugural meeting and the first campaigns
Six great Victorian buildings Six members reflect on a building of particular importance in the life of the Society
- St Pancras booking hall Amicia de Moubray
- St George's Hall, Liverpool Peter de Figueiredo
- Eaton Hall Colin Cunningham
- Little Germany Chris Hammond
- The Hereford Screen Marian Campbell
- Holy Trinity Bingley Andrew Saint
Saving a century Jane Fawcett recalls the early days
The Victorian Society 50th anniversary exhibition Gavin Stamp previews the Society's exhibition at the Royal Institute of British Architects, London
House Notes Janet Collings is preparing for spring. And should you remove paint from brick or stone walls or not?
Reviewed in this issue:
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