Thanks to a successful fundraising campaign an important building in Kendal is on its way to getting a new roof.
Determined fundraisers say they need £50,000 to cover the cost of scaffolding that will also provide a protective bubble over the huge Friends Meeting House roof as the work takes place.
The grade two listed Georgian building was designed by local architect Francis Webster in 1816 as a purpose-built Quaker Meeting House.
“Keeping this wonderful building in good repair is very important,” said Bridget Guest, manager of Quaker Tapestry Museum.
“It’s home to the Quaker Tapestry Museum and protects a large and eclectic collection of social history. It provides a welcoming and comfortable venue for community groups and local businesses, who can hire out rooms.
“Now the original parallel pitched roofs, made of graduated Cumbrian slate with a lead valley and gable end chimneys, need major refurbishment.
“It’s one of those ‘once in a century’ slating and leadwork jobs – but it should last another century.”
The new roof will bring energy and nature conservation benefits. Breathable underfelt and other ventilation measures will help with condensation issues. Solar panels on the hidden inner pitch of the roof are also being planned. And bat boxes will accommodate lone male pipistrelle bats.
The roof also houses original winding gear used to raise vertical movable screens that divided the large ground floor room in two – a distinctive feature of some older Quaker meeting houses.
It is hoped that a final generous response will raise £50,000, to meet the total cost of £250,000 and that work can start this autumn. Much of the income raised has come from local Quaker funds, grants and donations.
Bridget continued: “We are very proud of our building with its fascinating stories and design details. It’s well worth a visit. All donations, large or small, and Gift-Aided if possible, will be gratefully received and help us reach the target as soon as possible.
“Please donate what you can today at https://www.quaker-tapestry.co.uk/product/make-a-donation.”
The Quaker Tapestry is a ‘hidden gem’ amongst Cumbrian museums. Reopening on May 18, there is a shop, exhibits and people can see 40 of the 77 modern embroideries that make up the Quaker Tapestry. Each panel tells stories of people across the centuries who made history with their deeds of discovery and daring.
Visitors should check visiting times and book 24 hours ahead.