THE HOLST VICTORIAN HOUSE

SEEING HOLST’S HOME IN A NEW LIGHT

Exciting news from the Holst Victorian House! We recently re-opened following extensive refurbishment and improvements designed to create an authentic Victorian experience and showcase exquisite period lighting.

Our aim is to transport you back in time to the 1870s, when Gustav Holst was born, and for you to learn how people lived in Victorian times, which will be an experience that you won’t forget.

The birthplace in 1874 of one of England’s greatest composers, Gustav Holst, the Holst Victorian House (HVH) includes his piano and autograph manuscripts, and the opportunity to hear some of his music and interviews of the time. The HVH is also a treasure trove of Victorianera artefacts and unique artwork. Founded in 1974 by Gustav’s daughter, Imogen, it is now managed as an independent, accredited museum and is a unique visitor attraction in the town –indeed in all of Gloucestershire – being the only period house of its type open to the public.

As well as the link with Holst’s life and music, and the Victorian artefacts and the artwork, there is now another reason to visit this museum, which is to witness the beautifully restored Victorian era lighting that now illuminates its many rooms.

During lockdown the Trust developed plans to enhance the HVH by relocating items, carrying out much needed repairs, refurbishment and redecoration and replacing the modern spotlighting with period lights. As Martin Renshaw, Trustee and Project Manager, explains, “Replacing the ugly modern lighting with authentic Victorian lights was a key component of our project. We aim to attract a larger audience by emphasising the period nature of the house as well as the connection with Cheltenham’s favourite son.”

Laura Kinnear, our Curator, identified Fritz Fryer as the specialists for the lighting, and we were impressed by their depth of knowledge and the extensive facilities at their workshop in Ross-onWye. Furnishing our period rooms with lighting appropriate to the different rooms, from a formal drawing room to a humble maid’s sitting room, in an 1870s middle class house in Cheltenham was a challenge, especially as we are an independent museum with limited budget.

Fritz Fryer identified and sourced appropriate period lights, and then cleaned, assembled and restored them to working condition. The team also had to retrofit the fixtures to work with modern electrical wiring and safety standards while still maintaining their antique charm.

Installation was carried out in March, and, despite the challenges, the lighting fixtures are a resounding success as our Curator, Laura Kinnear, explains, “I am delighted with the new lights from Fritz Fryer, from the elegant gasolier in the Drawing Room to the maid’s oil lamp in the Scullery, they are going to make a real impact on the visitor experience, enabling visitors to step back to the 19th century. They illuminate our museum in more ways than one and provide an evocative atmosphere for all who step through our door.”

Our Operations Manager, Zak Infanti, was also bowled over. “They really are something special, the atmosphere is totally different," he said, "I really can't wait to show them off to our visitors.” www.holstvictorianhouse.org.uk

Today, visitors to the museum can marvel at the beauty and elegance of these fixtures, and the lighting now provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're a fan of Gustav Holst, unique period artwork, Victorian history or simply appreciate the beauty of antique lighting fixtures, the Holst Victorian House is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression of Victorian living on all who see it.

The Holst Victorian House has also been shortlisted for the SoGlos Gloucestershire Lifestyle Awards 2023 Cultural Venue of the year award, so please support us and vote for us!

We look forward to welcoming you: phone or email to book, or just turn up!

Email: enquiries@holstvictorianhouse.org.uk

For more details on the lighting and Fritz Fryer see: fritzfryer.co.uk

Email: ask@fritzfryer.co.uk Telephone: 01989 567416