The Laverton Institute Trust has received a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) Sharing Heritage grant for £9,500
The money will be used to tell the story of Westbury during Victorian times and of Abraham Laverton in particular.
This exciting project ‘Victorian Westbury – a tale of industry, enterprise, philanthropy and political ambition’, is being led by project manager Lilly Bale from Westbury Town Council.
“It’s great that we have been awarded this grant and we can’t wait to get started,” explained Lilly. “The exhibition will plot the history of Westbury during the period 1837 to 1914.
“We are interested in engaging with Westbury Schools, Westbury Library, Heritage Society, youth groups and working alongside volunteers interested in Heritage for the special guided visits to The Laverton exhibition and rest of the Blue Plaque Trail buildings.
“We will be opening our doors to the general public to this amazing exhibition no later than the 30th of January, 2017.
“The Laverton Institute Trust works in raising awareness and interest in the town’s social, economic and architectural heritage during the Victorian period,” explained Lilly. “The overall aim is to build up a contextual overview of the town and local community during this period of significant growth and change that will hopefully offer historical context and foment a better understanding of its rich heritage during a significant part of the town’s history.”
Nerys Watts, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South West, said “HLF believes everyone should have the opportunity to explore their heritage, and thanks to National Lottery support this exciting project will uncover stories from Westbury’s past and bring them together through exhibitions and community events.”
The Laverton Institute was built in 1873 by Abraham Laverton, who from humble beginnings as the ninth child of a Trowbridge handloom weaver became a mill owner, JP and Liberal MP for Westbury.
The building was one of his many philanthropic gifts to the people of Westbury. Abraham wished to provide a venue for religious, educational, scientific, philanthropic and political purposes and it still remains as it was meant to be till this day.
