Monmouth School, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

August 15, 2014

Hundreds of historical photographs are being exhibited to celebrate one of Britain’s oldest schools’ 400th anniversary.

Monmouth School is inviting people to come along to the Shire Hall between Saturday, August 16, and Friday, August 29, to see memorabilia and pictures showing how it has changed with the town since opening in 1614.

The free-to-enter exhibition, Monmouth School, Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, will include images from the archives of Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls, together with photographs of the town’s old buildings, famous faces who attended the Schools and events which occurred during the First World War.

It is back by popular demand after a successful run in June.

Dr Steven Connors, Monmouth School Headmaster, said: “The exhibition explains why the School was founded here in Monmouth, and how it has impacted the town’s landscape over the years.

“There will be photographs of buildings which are no longer around and the School’s close relationship with the town throughout history will be depicted.

“Pictures of famous Monmouth School alumni including musicians, actors, sportsmen, politicians, scientists, military personnel and clergymen will be on show, as well as photographs of Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls since their opening in 1892.

“There will be many familiar faces at the Shire Hall, and we hope the town really enjoys walking through this fascinating collection.”

Much of the collection is also available to take home as a souvenir within the newly-published Monmouth School, The First 400 Years.

The book, penned by Stephen Edwards, was officially launched at Shire Hall on Friday, June 20.

Dr Connors added: “I can think of no better way to celebrate 400 years of educational history than to be guided through this fascinating story by our knowledgeable author Stephen Edwards to whom we owe, along with the book’s picture editor, Keith Moseley, a huge debt of thanks for this labour of love.”

The colourful book will be available to buy at the hall throughout the exhibition, which is open between 10am and 4pm.