The Grange Centre received an extraordinary request from a member of the public who wanted to donate their wedding dress to The Grange.
On 18th May 1957, Patricia Kirk (née Abnett) married, at Christ Church, Southgate in North London,in a dress crafted by students of the then School of Stitchery and Lace, now The Grange Centre. At 95 years old and widowed, Mrs. Kirk’s dearest wish was to return her dress to its place of origin.
On Tuesday 13th August Mrs Kirk, with her son Nigel, visited The Grange Heritage Room, where her cherished gown will now go on display thanks to Mrs Kirk’s wonderful donation.
On hand to receive the dress was Jo one of the people the charity supports. Nigel Kirk, her son,said “Mum has always been immensely proud of the dress and the superb skill and workmanship that went into making it. She still remembers going to John Lewis in Oxford Street in London to purchase the material. This is something Mum feels strongly about completing, and she’s keen to make the journey to hand over the dress personally.”
The School of Stitchery and Lace was renowned for creating wedding dresses, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s, as well as garments for the Royal Family; it is fitting that such a fine example will now reside in their Heritage Room. Apart from photos, this is the first time a wedding dress will be on display at The Grange
Katharine Kemp, Heritage Advisor at The Grange said “This addition to our collection not only preserves a piece of our charity’s history but also honours the skill and dedication of our past students.”
You will be able to see the wedding dress and other items at The Grange Heritage Open Day on Friday 13th September. Do not miss this opportunity to explore the house and grounds, and discover how it has evolved from farm shacks to country house, to The School of Stitchery and Lace and today’s home for people with disabilities.
Walk and Talk Tours, lasting 45 mins will take place at 10am; 11am; 1.30pm and 2.30pm. For more details visit https://www.grangecentre.org.uk/events/
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