South Shields Town Hall

South Shields Town Hall, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of South Shields, Tyne and Wear, England, is a beacon of civic pride and historical significance. This Grade II listed building serves as the headquarters of South Tyneside Council and stands as a testament to the town's rich heritage and community spirit.

The Evolution of South Shields Town Hall

The story of South Shields Town Hall begins in the 18th century with the construction of the first town hall, commissioned in 1768 by the Dean and Chapter of Durham. This building, located in the Market Place, was initially a manorial courthouse. Its design featured arcading on the ground floor to facilitate markets, a door on the first floor accessible by steps on the north side, and Venetian windows on the first floor on the other sides. Atop the roof, a square timber turret with a cupola added a distinctive touch.

Following the incorporation of South Shields as a municipal borough in September 1850, the South Shields Corporation acquired this building for use as a town hall in 1855. However, as the town grew, it became evident that the old town hall was no longer fit for purpose. In 1869, a competition was held to design a new building on the same site, but the project was abandoned due to local objections regarding cost and location.

The Birth of the New Town Hall

The idea of a new town hall resurfaced in the 1880s, driven by the continued inadequacy of the old building. By the 1890s, the South Shields Corporation had decided to procure new premises. The chosen site was a piece of open land at the corner of Bent House Lane (later known as Beach Road) and Westoe Road. The foundation stone for the new building was laid in 1905.

Designed by Ernest Fatch in the Edwardian Baroque style, the new town hall was completed at a cost of £78,000. It was officially opened by the Mayor, George Thomas Grey, on 19 October 1910. The design featured a symmetrical main frontage with thirteen bays facing Westoe Road. The end bays projected forward as pavilions, while the central section of three bays also projected forward, boasting a grand doorway with a stone surround on the ground floor and a round-headed window on the first floor, flanked by paired Ionic columns with a broken pediment above. Atop the pediment was a seated figure supported by two reclining figures.

The Iconic Clock Tower

One of the most striking features of South Shields Town Hall is its 46.6-meter-high clock tower, which rises above the north pavilion. The tower includes a belfry with figures representing the four seasons at the corners and a copper galleon on top. The clock, crafted by Potts & Sons, was set going by Mrs. Gladys Willie at noon on 21 October 1908. The tower also houses a main bell and four quarter bells installed by Taylor of Loughborough, which play the Westminster Quarters.

Queen Victoria's Statue

In front of the town hall stands a statue of Queen Victoria, created by the renowned sculptor Albert Toft. Erected on 7 May 1913, this statue adds a regal touch to the building's exterior and serves as a reminder of the town's historical connections to the British monarchy.

Royal Visits and Modern Extensions

South Shields Town Hall has hosted several notable visitors over the years. Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, visited the town hall on 29 October 1954, marking a significant moment in the building's history. To accommodate the growing needs of the council, a modern extension along Beach Road was opened by the mayor, Alderman Jack Richardson, on 19 October 1960.

A Hub of Civic Life

The town hall has continued to serve as the headquarters of South Shields Borough Council and remains the local seat of government for the enlarged South Tyneside Council, formed in 1974. Inside the town hall, statues by sculptor Roger Andrews depict Private Thomas Young VC and Lieutenant Richard Annand VC, who served with the Durham Light Infantry during the First and Second World Wars, respectively. These statues, unveiled in May 2007, honor the bravery and sacrifice of local heroes.

Visiting South Shields Town Hall

Visitors to South Shields Town Hall can marvel at its architectural beauty and delve into the rich history it represents. The building's grand design, historical significance, and central role in the community make it a must-visit landmark in South Shields. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply curious about the town's heritage, South Shields Town Hall offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of this vibrant coastal town.

In conclusion, South Shields Town Hall is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the town's enduring spirit and commitment to civic pride. Its walls echo the stories of generations past and present, making it a cherished landmark in the heart of South Shields.