Today, 24 June 2024, marks a momentous occasion for Penlee House Gallery & Museum as it celebrates its 75th anniversary as a gallery and museum.
Located in Penzance, Cornwall, Penlee House is a significant cultural landmark with a rich history that dates back to its construction in 1865.
A Glimpse into the Past
Penlee House was originally built for John Richards Branwell, a wealthy miller and merchant. The Italianate-style house, likely designed by Penzance Borough architect John Matthews, was completed in 1865. The estate featured formal and informal gardens, adding to its grandeur.
In 1946, the Penlee House estate was purchased by public subscription to serve as a War Memorial and to house the town’s historic and art collections. The house officially opened as the District Museum on 24 June 1949, with Sir Cyril Fox presiding over the ceremony. Over the years, the museum underwent refurbishments in 1974 and 1997, ensuring its preservation and enhancement.
Evolution of the Museum
The origins of Penlee House Gallery can be traced back to the Penzance Natural History and Antiquarian Society, established in 1839. Initially housed in the Penzance Market House, the museum moved to the newly constructed Public Buildings (now St John’s Hall) in 1867. Despite periods of inactivity and challenges such as insect damage to collections, the museum persevered.
The museum found its permanent home in Penlee House after World War II. The estate, purchased for £13,000, was saved from development through the efforts of then Mayor Robert Thomas and the generosity of the public. The museum was managed by the Borough Librarian until 1974, when Penzance lost its borough status, and the museum’s ownership transferred to Penwith District Council. In 1985, ownership reverted to Penzance Town Council, which continues to operate Penlee House today.
Penlee House as the Branwell family home (Photo – Penlee House Collections).
Penlee House Today
Penlee House Gallery & Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Newlyn School and Lamorna paintings, alongside local archaeology, history, and photography exhibits. The gallery hosts special exhibitions, such as the current “The Exceptional Harold Harvey,” which showcase works from its collection and loans from UK museums and private collectors.
Cllr Joan Beveridge, Chair of the council’s Arts & Culture Committee, emphasised the gallery’s modern approach: “Penlee House Gallery & Museum doesn’t dwell on the past, despite an impressive history, it has embraced modern technology and social media, inviting visitors, especially younger people, to not only engage with the artworks but more importantly, to create their own art.”
The gallery also offers various community programmes, including school visits, Baby Sensory sessions, Little Penlee Explorer sessions, and family activities every Saturday.
Call for Support: Fix the Roof
As Penlee House celebrates its 75th anniversary, it faces a critical challenge: the need for urgent roof repairs. Parts of the historic roof, now over 150 years old, require immediate attention to safeguard the invaluable collections housed within.
The museum has set a fundraising target of £90,000 to cover the cost of these essential repairs. Penlee House is calling on the community and supporters far and wide to contribute to this vital cause. Your donations will ensure that the museum’s treasures are protected for future generations to enjoy.
How You Can Help
Donating is simple and can be done in several ways:
- Online: Visit the Penlee House Donation Page to make a contribution.
- In Person: Donations can be made at the gallery using the contactless donation station or at the shop.
- By Text: Detailed information on how to donate via text is available on the Penlee House website.
All contributions will be processed and administered by the National Funding Scheme, operating as DONATE, a registered charity in England, Wales, and Scotland.
Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. By supporting this campaign, you are helping to preserve a vital part of Penzance’s cultural heritage. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to the future of Penlee House Gallery & Museum.
Celebrate with a Visit to Penlee House
On this special day, Penzance Parish residents can enjoy free entry to Penlee House Gallery & Museum with a Penzance Pass. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the museum’s extensive collection of Newlyn School and Lamorna paintings, as well as its impressive displays of local archaeology, history, and photography.
Visitors can also experience the current exhibition, “The Exceptional Harold Harvey,” which showcases remarkable works from Penlee’s collection alongside pieces from other UK museums and private collectors.
Penlee House offers a variety of engaging programmes for all ages, including exciting school visits, free fortnightly Baby Sensory sessions, free monthly Little Penlee Explorer sessions, and free family activities every Saturday from 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
Discover the rich history and vibrant present of Penlee House. For more information on exhibitions, programmes, and visiting details, visit the Penlee House website.
Celebrate the legacy and future of this cherished cultural institution by planning your visit today.
