Alum –The Magic Mineral at Loftus Town Hall

Have you ever been in Loftus Town Hall? Do you know why Alum was so important in East Cleveland? Do you know who Lewis Hunton is? These are just 3 questions which you will be able to answer if you visit Loftus Town Hall this weekend as part of Heritage Open days. Tees Valley Wildlife Trust and Loftus Town council are hosting the event as part of this national event and as part of a Heritage lottery funded project “Alum, Alchemy and ammonites”.

Loftus Town Hall was built in 1879 for the growing local population and you will be able to see artefacts related to the history of the building and local council display. Come and view the special Heritage Open day exhibition, highlighting the important role of the Alum industry in the development of the town. There will be a quiz, colouring and games for children.

Loftus Town Hall is situated at the junction of Loftus High Street and Water Lane and will be open for Thursday 8th September until Sunday 11th September form 10.30-16.30 for more details about this and other open days visit http://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/home/.

Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors, ranging from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns, parish churches to Buddhist temples. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.
For more information about the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust visit website

The Alum, Alchemy and Ammonites project was a two year project which has worked to raise the profile of the unique legacy of the alum Industry of East Cleveland. This was done through a series of walks, talks working with school groups and public exhibitions as well as this travelling exhibition for more information visit http://www.tvrigs.org.uk/home-page/alum-alchemy-ammonites.