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Congregational Memorial Hall facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Congregational Memorial Hall was an important building in Farringdon Street, London. It was built to remember a big event from 200 years earlier. This event was called the Great Ejection of Black Bartholomew's Day in 1662.

At that time, a law called the Act of Uniformity was passed. This law brought back the Anglican church as the main church. About 2,000 Puritan ministers disagreed with this law. They refused to follow it and were forced to leave their churches. These ministers became known as Nonconformists. The Congregational Memorial Hall was built to honor their stand.

Congregational Memorial Hall
The hall in 1879, photographed for a lantern slide.

What Was the Congregational Memorial Hall?

The Congregational Memorial Hall was designed by an architect named John Tarring. It was built on the same spot where the old Fleet Prison used to be in Farringdon Street.

When Did the Hall Open?

The hall officially opened its doors in 1875. It quickly became a busy place.

What Was the Hall Used For?

The hall served as a central meeting spot for many groups. It was also home to the Congregational Library, which held many important books. Many different forward-thinking groups used the hall for their meetings.

The Birth of the Labour Party

One of the most famous events at the hall was the founding of the Labour Party. This important political party was started during a meeting held there on 27 February 1900. This shows how the hall was a place for new ideas and important changes.

LabourPartyPlaque
A plaque at Caroone House, marking where the Labour Party was founded.

What Happened to the Hall?

The Congregational Memorial Hall stood for many years. However, it was eventually taken down.

When Was the Hall Demolished?

The hall was demolished in 1968. This means it was pulled down to make way for a new building.

What Is There Now?

After the hall was demolished, a new office building called Caroone House was built on the site. This building was used by British Telecom for its international business.

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