What is recorded here
This blue commemorative plaque records: St. Edwards Hall is a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture, having been erected in 1877-78 at a cost of £4,000. It was funded partly by subscription and partly by the Stow Provident Bank. When the bank closed down in 1861, it transferred most of the accounts to the new Post Office Savings Bank, but was left with a number of unclaimed accounts. These were prudently invested and the funds were used to build the hall. A pointed wooden tower was added in 1894 for the town's fire bell. Today, the building houses the library, Visitor Information Centre, a collection of Civil War arms and armour, and an upstairs hall which is home to a large collection of 17th century paintings. Recorded plaque organisation: Stow and District Civic Society.
Why this person mattered
St. Edwards Hall, erected in 1877-78, exemplifies Victorian Gothic architecture and serves as a cultural hub housing a library, Visitor Information Centre, Civil War artifacts, and a collection of 17th-century paintings. The hall was funded by unclaimed accounts from the defunct Stow Provident Bank, highlighting an innovative reuse of dormant funds for community benefit.
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