Guildhall's 100th: Medieval Milestone

0:00Lester's ancient guild hall is marking 100 years since dodging the wrecking ball back in the 1920s. This timber frame gem from 1390 served as a banqueting hall for local guilds and later became the city's first town hall. By the early 20th century, it was too cramped for a booming population and slid into disrepair. Earlier this week, folks recalled how the Lestershire Archaeological and Historical Society rallied hard, petitioning the council to save it. When kicked off in 1922, and by May 19th, 1926, it reopened as a public museum, one of the UK's top preserved medieval spots. City leaders like Assistant Mayor by Dempster can believe it almost vanished. She credits those early campaigners and counselors for preserving this great one-listed treasure, now drawing over 66,000 visitors yearly, and even hosting weddings in his grand hall. To celebrate the museum milestone on May 4th, they're throwing a free open day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1:01Expect medieval tunes on hammered dulcimer, maypole dancing, reenactments with costumes and canons, plus crafts and face painting for a small fee. After that, a ticketed sealant dance fills the great hall from 4 p.m., keeping the vibes alive as this historic spot proves it's staying powerful. Generations ahead. That wraps Lester News today brought to you with AI.