Molteno Hall Renovations in Fortingall
The committee of the Molteno Memorial Hall in Fortingall is delighted to announce that the much needed renovations to the hall are set to start early next year.
The hall is not only a major centre of social life in the district but also an important part of our heritage. It was the final building of the development of Fortingall into a model village started by Sir Donald Currie.
In the 1880’s Currie hired pioneer Arts and Crafts architect Sir James MacLaren to design developments to his estate and his assimilation of Arts & Crafts ideas to the Scottish vernacular are now known to have inspired other outstanding Scots architects such as Mackintosh and Lorimer. |
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MacLaren’s early death meant that his designs had to be completed by his partners and successors. This development was completed in 1935 when the village hall was built as a memorial to Currie’s daughter and her husband. Designed by W Curtis Green, it fits perfectly into the vernacular ensemble with its crowstepped gables while the interior features a spectacular scissor-based timber roof.
Improved Facilities
Although some improvements have been made over the years the committee of 14 local folk which manages the hall felt that major work was required to bring it up to 21st century standards. The core of this is to improve the kitchen and toilet facilities, improve the heating and lighting systems and provide better access for the disabled.
Obviously we want to preserve and, if possible, enhance the present character and features of the hall, which are admired by all. It is hoped that the refurbishment will build the foundations for (at least) another 70 years of even wider community accessibility.
As the final cost of the work is expected to be in the region of at least £60,000 numerous fund raising events have already been held, including various fairs and ceilidhs. The latest fund-raiser was a dinner and ceilidh, which was held in May. The music was provided by Piper Active and everyone would agree that it was a marvellous night.
Sponsors
The fund raising is ongoing but, on behalf of the committee, I would like to thank all of our sponsors to date: Perth & Kinross Leisure, Quality of Life Trust, The Hugh Fraser Foundation, Awards for All, Piper Active, The Bluemli family, the Masonic Lodge Tay & Lyon, many local anonymous donors and last - but certainly not least - all who have attended recent functions and contributed so generously.
The next event is the Summer Fair on 19 July and we look forward to welcoming you all.
Sue Finlay
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