History of Falmouth Hotel on show as treasures uncovered (From Falmouth Packet)

History of Falmouth Hotel on show as treasures uncovered

12:00pm Tuesday 15th January 2013 in News

A large haul of silverware, china, photographs and ledgers which date back to the early days of The Falmouth Hotel and were found by chance last month, will take pride of place at an exhibition celebrating the hotel’s 150th anniversary later this year.

Ben Young, regional general manager for the Richardson Group, was searching for extra Christmas decorations when he came across several boxes of treasure which had been stored away in a cupboard, probably decades ago, and then forgotten.

The items discovered include several large pieces of silver-plated table ware, tankards, cutlery, pieces of a china tea service, old photographs and several bound ledgers which contain share certificates, minutes of board meetings and a register of directors and managers.

“There are boxes and boxes of it which were found in a cupboard underneath some stairs which had not been accessed for many years,” said Mr Young. “It really was a chance find. I was looking for more Christmas decorations when I came across it all.

“Everyone knew the cupboard was there, but it wasn’t until I pushed through towards the back that I found several big boxes. There was a fair amount of junk, but in amongst it I found some original hotel silverware with the original hotel logo engraved on it.”

The discovery couldn’t have come at a better time as the hotel is preparing to celebrate its 150th anniversary this year. Several events are being planned to commemorate this which will now include a display of the items.

Also planned is a function for 150 people when invites will be sent out to “random” people from the community as well as the “great and the good” and the grand reveal of a section of mosaic floor which has been hidden under carpet for many years.

The Falmouth Hotel Company was incorporated in April 1863, the first stone was laid that August with the hotel opening two years later. Over the years it has secured its place as one of the town’s leading tourist accommodation providers and as a venue for weddings and similar events.

Mr Young is hoping that local people will also get involved with the anniversary celebrations. “We are encouraging anyone locally who has good memories and photos to come forward and share them with us,” he said. “We will put them on display and then return them at the end of the year.”

Anyone who would like to contribute personal recollections or photographs of the hotel through the years should call (01326) 312671 or pop into the hotel.