We had an afternoon talk with Sandra from the Russell Cotes Museum which is situated here in Bournemouth just a stone throw away from Brompton Court. Sandra, using power point and our projector system in the Hobbies Room, gave an insight to the fascinating history and background of the Victorian Villa called East Cliff Hall which was the home of Merton (1835-1921) and Annie Russell-Cotes (1835-1920). The building of East Cliff Hall was begun in 1897 and was completed in its first form in 1901. The house was designed by the architect, John Frederick Fogerty, but Merton and Annie had a great deal of input into the design. It was designed so that Merton and Annie could live in style and comfort and to house their growing collections. The house was to be a showcase, not simply for their own enjoyment, but also for the people of Bournemouth to whom it was given. On 15 July 1901, Merton presented East Cliff Hall to his wife as a gift on her 66th birthday. This was the same year that Queen Victoria died, making the house one of the last Victorian buildings ever built.
Tea and scones with cream were served which topped the afternoon! We thank Sandra for her visit and look forward to her return with another talk!
Tea and scones with cream were served which topped the afternoon! We thank Sandra for her visit and look forward to her return with another talk!
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