Cumnock Town HallThe proposal to build a Town Hall in Cumnock was first put forward in 1880. The Marquess of Bute offered the Glaisnock Street site free of charge and a contribution of £500. A subscription list was opened in 1883 which soon reached £2000. The building was declared open on the 7th June 1885 – the architect was R.S. INGRAM.
The building contained two halls. Public generosity helped to equip the Hall: which included a special contribution from a local firm which paid for the ceiling ornament (cost £5), and a piano which cost £35 from another donor.
A Hall Committee was set up and arrangements were made for a Hallkeeper. Eventually a gentleman was appointed and was to be paid £30 a year plus free house, coal and electricity. A grand bazaar was held ten years later to clear the outstanding deficit (a sum of £70).
The Hall & its lesser rooms have been used for all kinds of events & occasions. In the early 1900’s touring companies came to offer drama, music & grand opera. Cumnock’s first wrestling competition was presented in 1905. Mrs. PANKHURST came to the Town Hall in 1907 to address a “Votes for Women” rally.
In the 1920’s & 30’s it was a favourite venue for ballroom dancing with music by local bands. The building has housed schoolrooms, billeted soldiers, met accommodation demands, been a cinema and bingo hall and provided a meeting place for every club, society & association in the locality.
The original front garden has been converted into a carpark and is now graced by an impressive bust of James Keir HARDIE by Benno SCHOTZ, unveiled in 1939.
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