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Borthwick spotlight for Brierley's architectural gems

Posted on 31 January 2007

A new exhibition at the Borthwick Institute at the University of York celebrates the work of York architect Walter Brierley who practised in the city for 40 years around the turn of the 20th century.

Between 1885 and 1926, he was responsible for over 300 buildings, including schools, churches, houses and civic buildings, in York, North Yorkshire and across the North. The exhibition features outstanding items from Walter Brierley's archive which is preserved in the Borthwick Institute.

It is fitting that the Trust, which founded the Borthwick in 1953, was one of three organisations...which raised the large sums required to purchase the archive and preserve it

Chris Webb

Brierley's legacy includes the Headmaster's House at the King's Manor, County Hall Northallerton and four schools, one of which, Scarcroft Road, is regarded as his masterpiece. Goddards, on Tadcaster Road, built for the Terry Family in the 1920s, was his last building.

The exhibition is a celebration of 60 years of York Civic Trust, which has played a significant role in enhancing the city's built environment.

Chris Webb, Keeper of Archives at the Borthwick, said: "It is fitting that the Trust, which founded the Borthwick in 1953, was one of three organisations -- with the National Art Collection Fund and the Victoria and Albert Museum Purchase Grants Fund -- which raised the large sums required to purchase the archive and preserve it."

Graham Millar, Chairman of York Civic Trust, said: "It is particularly pleasing that the exhibition should take place at the University of York in whose foundation the Civic Trust played such a crucial part. We are also proud that the Borthwick Institute has become such an important resource locally, nationally and internationally."

The exhibition is open during University Library opening times until 6 April.

Notes to editors:

  • Images of Brierley's architectural plans are available on request by contacting the above number.

Contact details

David Garner
Senior Press Officer

Tel: +44 (0)1904 322153