On September 30th, 1911, the new Sauchie Public Hall was opened by Alexander P. Forrester-Paton of Inglewood House, one of Alloa’s best known benefactors.
It was built on the site of the former Holton Gardens and was intended to be used as a public hall, library, reading room and for indoor recreation. Costing around £3,000, it was built to designs drawn up by John Melvin & Sons and William Kerr, architects of Alloa. It was a relatively ornate building with the front elevation facing south. This is where the library, reading room and recreation room were located.
The library contained 1200 books for people to borrow, while the reading room on the west side of the tiled corridor was appointed in the latest style. There was modern comfortable seating with tables and magazine and newspaper racks. This room has copious access to natural light, via the large bay windows.
In the east end of the building there was a large billiard room with two billiard tables. There was also an arched recess for playing draughts, cards, and dominoes, however gambling for money was not allowed.
The main hall was accessed via a vestibule on the east side of the building. Like the corridor, it was beautifully tiled. The hall was built to accommodate around 600 seats and was accessed via double doors. It had a platform or stage for speakers and lecturers, or plays to be performed, behind which was a room on the same level. This room was accessed by a door either side and it boasted ornate windows on both sides to let in the light. In this part of the building were also two cloak rooms and toilets along with the janitor’s store.
Above the main hall was the lesser hall, capable of holding around 100 people. It was intended for committee meetings and smaller gatherings. Its balcony projected into the main hall below so could act as a gallery if necessary.
In 1925 the hall was further extended by Melvin and Kerr, Architects, with further additions following in the late 20th century.
Sauchie Public Hall
It is worth noting that these two architects were also responsible for the war memorial shown above within the grounds of the Hall, which was executed by R. McGee in 1922.
The hall is available for hire.
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