Blog
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Tags: Archeology, Conservation, Books, Cornwall, Archives, History, Collections
Grand Summer Raffle
There’s a hint of summer in the air, and we’re once again holding our Grand Summer Raffle. Last year’s was a brilliant success, and we’re hoping to repeat that triumph with another, to be drawn at our Summer Fete on 16th June. We’ve again managed to get some fabulous art prizes, the first being an original Kurt Jackson oil painting. Second prize is an oil painting of a local scene by Ann Bull, third a piece of Norman Stuart Clarke Glassware, and fourth is a framed print by Ken Symons. There will also be plenty of other smaller prizes to be announced on the day. All the prizes are currently on display in the library, so do take a look next time you’re in, and don’t forget to pick up a ticket or two, or more! They’re just a pound each, so well worth the small investment. If you’d like to be extra supportive, we’d welcome more ticket sellers, so if you’re passing, and think you can sell some, pick up a few raffle books and alert your pals! All money rasied will go to the library.
On your marks…
The new extension is underway! Fences are up and and fencing, ready to be filled with machinery, and work has officially started. On Monday, there was a Ground-breaking ceremony, attended by committee, Cornwall council and, importantly, our generous benefactor Mr Myner. Mr Myner has been associated with the library for over 40 years, and is donating the proceeds of a legacy from his sister, Patricia, who died in 2010. With all the necessary approvals in place, work is due to be completed before the end of the year. We can’t wait to get the much needed extra book & work space, the lift (which will enable us to be much more accessible) and the new room for the photographic archive. We’ll keep you posted as things progress, and please bear with us during this time , we’re sure there will be little obstacles to overcome but are certain it’ll be worth it when we have our lovely new extension!
Slide Collection
FISH SL 0001 (slide collection 2)
April’s offering from the slide collection is this delightful study of ‘The Fisher Boy’ with his oilskin smock and Sou’wester leaning against a wooden barrel on the newly completed section of the North Pier at Newlyn, circa 1890.
Behind him is the foreshore where small boats once landed the catches from the Mount’s Bay Luggers anchored in Gwavas Lake.
Stacked in the background are piles of barrels, boxes and fish baskets, on the site where later, in 1907-8, the Mackerel Market and the Harbour Offices were. Basket makers and Coopers worked all year round to sustain the demand.
Further back is the area referred to as ‘The Strand’ at Street-an-Nowan. The Coombe river was diverted behind the new pier to create this scene.
This shot is particularly special as it shows part of Newlyn and the harbour area captured in time – lots of changes were to be made to this area around the turn of the century.