Proposed Natural History Museum Kendal

Both J S Crowther and Henry Bowman had given lectures on ecclesiastical architecture to the Society, reported in considerable detail. [Kendal Mercury 26 April 1851 page 6]

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - A design for the proposed new museum by Messrs Bowman and Crowther, architects, was laid before the meeting. It appeared that these gentlemen had made an inspection of Stricklandgate House, relative to the proposal to move the society there, but had not reported favourably on the subject. This inspection and the design above mentioned, which was most beautifully delineated, appear to figure in the disbursements of the Society at £6.

KENDAL MUSEUM and the KENDAL LIBRARY  For some time past an idea has been entertained of uniting these institutions under one building, and we now that further project has been mooted for erecting a building, which in addition to these public institutions also provide accommodation for the Savings Bank.  This would effect a considerable saving, as one curator would serve for each institution. To carry out this project it is proposed to raise the requisite sum in shares to bear five per cent interest. It has also been consideration we believe by the trustees the Savings Bank, either to erect the building out of the surplus of that institution and charge the other institutions in rent, or to apportion only the reserve for that Purpose. But whatever course may be selected, we have no doubt the requisite funds will be raised. The site suggested is a corner of the Miller Field, which of course will require the sanction of the corporation. A plan has been made by Messrs. Bowman, and Crowther, architects, but it is generally considered far too ecclesiastical in its character, and too elaborate for the purpose. Something plainer, and we may add less costly than the architects' plan threatens to be, would answer the purpose better. [Westmorland Gazette 17 September 1853 page 5]

Reference           Kendal Mercury 17 September 1853 page 6