Falmouth’s First Town Hall, 1725 -1866

One of the oldest buildings in Falmouth, this talk draws on original sources not seen before to tell the story of the Old Town Hall. 

It started life in troubled times as a non-conformist chapel in the late 17th century. But when was it first built? The dates found range from 1662 to 1710, and the talk will try to solve that mystery. What is known is that it was owned by Martin Killigrew, and in 1725 he gifted to the town for use as a town hall for the sole benefit of the public.

It remained as the town hall, also housing the assizes and a district County Court until 1866, when the councillors moved to a new building next to the Moor. They sold the old one to the Oddfellows, who occupied it for over 80 years, selling it into private ownership in 1948.

Since then, it has been used as an antiques shop and an art gallery, while retaining much of its charm and character.  

The talk celebrates the Civic Society erecting a blue plaque to recognise its significance in the life of the town, so do join us for a glass of Prosecco afterwards.

Tickets: £3 A £1 Poly Fund payment is added to each ticket sold