The Historic Buildings...
The original 17th century house purchased by Frances Bedingfield was replaced by the fine 18th century Georgian buildings (Grade 1 listed) which are now held by the Bar Convent Trust as a registered charity.
It was in 1766 under the auspices of Mother Aspinal that Thomas Atkinson (the architect responsible for the new facade of Bishopthorpe Palace ), was appointed to demolish the original house and build a new school and accommodation for the Community around a central court, with a neo-classical style Chapel hidden from view at the rear of the complex. In the Museum there is a reproduction of the list of Benefactors in 1765 who supported Mother Aspinal in this project and also see the copy of the document by which the Lord Mayor, Peter Johnson Esq, and the Commonalty of the City gave Mother Aspinal
"leave to erect the new front wall to her house" (1787)
Further extensions were made in 1844 when architect GT Andrews (the architect responsible for the 'old' York railway station) was appointed to add the Community Wing, kitchens and the Day School for the local children. In true railway fashion he was also responsible for the later addition of the glass roof over the central court in the 1850's. The Maw tile floor was then added and the Coalbrookdale iron furniture and plants which are so much a part of the Victorian character of the current Entrance Hall were then added to create what was referred to as the 'winter garden'.
These buildings remain today and recall the history of the convent and the nuns who made it memorable by their service here. They are open daily to the public, (except Sundays and Bank Holidays) for interest, education and enjoyment. |
