Malet Memorial Hall, 1 King Offa Way
| Malet Memorial Hall, 1 King Offa Way | |
|---|---|
| {{{image}}} | |
| LL ref: | 138 |
| Start date: | {{{date}}} |
| Architect: | N/A |
| Builder: | N/A |
| Original use: | {{{use}}} |
| View on map: | |
Missing details? Email us. | |
Built in 1913 in an Edwardian Tudor Revival style with castellated octagonal turret - formerly a worship hall on the first floor with the Malet Memorial Hall on the ground floor used for meetings.
The building was commissioned by Lady Ermyntrude Malet as a memorial to her husband, Sir Edward Malet, 4th Baronet (1837-1908). He was a high-ranking British diplomat who retired with his wife to Wrestwood on Hastings Road (now St Mary’s Special School and College). He was Consul General in Egypt in the 1880s and then the British Ambassador to Germany. Malet Street in the heart of Bloomsbury was named after his honour.
The Church of the Good Shepherd was designed by GH Gray and was dedicated by Bishop Ridgeway in October 1913. Its purpose was to provide a meeting place for working men, giving religious instruction, as an alternative to the public houses. There was also provision at the rear of the building to support a soup kitchen during times of need. The Church of the Good Shepherd closed with a Farewell Service held on 14th January 1995. It has been a restaurant for over 20 years.
The large stone memorial plaque over the main entrance doors is now badly effaced but originally read: In memory of the Rt Hon Sir Edward Malet 4th Bart. This building was erected and given to the church by Ermyntrude his wife. October 1913.[1]
Gallery
-
Colourised photo, c1970
