Bury Gaol and Moyses Hall…before and after
BURY GAOL, SICKLESMERE ROAD
The façade is the most prominent remaining part of the former Bury Gaol that had a central raised gatehouse constructed of stone blocks with vermiculated rustication (worm casts) built in 1805. George Byfield the gaol architect, the enlightened governor, John Orridge. The most infamous criminal hanged here was William Corder in 1828, the last, George Carnt in 1851, the gaol closing in 1880. During the latter part of the 20thC properties were built against the gaol façade forming part of new homes. During construction, the gaol’s infilled cellars and cells caused problems for the builders.
MOYSES HALL MUSEUM, CORNHILL
Once thought to be a synagogue as its name was similar to Moses. Now disproved, being a merchants house from the late 12thC with a colourful past: a house of correction, gaol, left parcels office etc it became the borough museum in 1899. It has many fine historical collections inside, the knowledgeable staff putting on exhibitions, sci-fi very popular. To the left in the B/W photo is the Castle Hotel once a carriers Inn with a flying freehold cellar to Moyses Hall, the Castle closing in the 1980s. In the distance on the right, is part of the White Lion pub replaced by the ill-fated Cornhill Walk shopping mall.
