Community celebrates heritage at Willmer House Conservation Day

The Museum of Farnham welcomed over 70 visitors to its free Willmer House Conservation Day on Saturday 4 October, celebrating the ongoing restoration of one of Farnham’s most treasured historic buildings.

Attendees had the rare opportunity to meet Emma Simpson MBE of Simpson Brickwork Conservation and Graham Abrey, the Conservation Accredited Consultant leading the works. Throughout the day, Emma and Graham demonstrated traditional repair techniques, including the art of cutting and shaping gauged bricks and the process of making and applying lime mortars. Visitors were invited to ask questions and learn more about the national heritage significance of Willmer House, a Grade I listed Georgian townhouse.

The event also highlighted the museum’s Buy a Brick campaign, which invites the public to support the conservation project by sponsoring a brick and becoming part of Willmer House’s legacy. By sponsoring a hand-crafted brick to help us ensure the preservation of the building’s historic façade, your name will take pride of place on a plaque in the museum as a lasting legacy of your contribution. If you want to get involved or find out more information, visit our webpage: Buy a Brick Campaign | Waverley Borough Council.

The Conservation Day followed the success of the Family Conservation Day held on 13 September during Heritage Open Days. Young visitors donned hard hats and hi-vis jackets to become contractors for the day, designing their own Regency townhouses and carving decorative bricks. These bricks will form part of a new sculpture in the museum garden, celebrating community involvement in the project.

Councillor Kika Mirylees, Portfolio Holder for Community Services, Leisure and EDI, said:

"Willmer House is a jewel in Farnham’s architectural crown, and it’s heartening to see so many residents engaging with its conservation. These events not only showcase the craftsmanship behind the restoration but also invite the community to be part of preserving our shared heritage.  We look forward to working with Farnham Museum to offer more talks and events as the conservation project continues.”