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Anne Cooper |
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Queen Victoria Hotel |
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At the end of the 19th Century Rushden had many licensed public houses and lodging houses but no commercial hotel. With the expansion in trade and industry, and access by railway it was considered that an hotel was required. The Northampton brewers Phipps and Company decided this was a project they could take on. There was violent opposition from the Temperance Movement within the town, especially the voice of Mr. George Denton. They had a very strong following in the town at the time. However they lost the argument and Phipps obtained a licence and land next door to the Railway Station for the erection of an hotel. Plans were drawn up by Mr. F. Dorman of Northampton. The ground floor contained two bars, commercial room, coffee room, billiards room, kitchen and offices. Upstairs; 25 bedrooms, large drawing room and dining room. It was fitted with all modern electrical appliances and telephonic facilities by a Mr. Smith of Northampton. The contract to build the hotel was given to Mr. George Henson of Wellingborough at a cost of £12,000, this figure did not include the outbuildings and stables. The formal opening took place in April 1899. Later in the week Phipps invited distinguished guests to a grand dinner at the hotel and most responded to partake of the wonderful meal provided by Messrs. Osborne and Co of Northampton". (I am not sure if the kitchens, chef etc of the hotel were functioning at this time.) Mr. Pickering Phipps himself hosted the dinner. The list of worthies attending is extensive, I am giving just a few that I have heard of. Mr. J. T. Parker (solicitor) Mr. Paul Cave, Dr. C. R. Owen, Dr. J. Crew, Mr. J. M. Sharman. Mr. A. C. G. Vann, Dr. Baker, O. Claridge, R. Marriott, G. H. Skinner, W. Spong, F. Brazier, George Fensome, H. H. Bletsoe. In all the list amounted to 85 names from all parts of the County. The toast was to "The Queen and Prince and Princess of Wales" proposed by Mr. Phipps. Speeches then followed from Paul Cave and J. W. Ashdowne, who both mentioned the rise and progress of the town of Rushden. "Success to the Queen Victoria Hotel". The rest of the evening was spent in 'harmony'.
In 2007 the building was refurbished as luxury flats, with second block built on the car park.
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