Tour to celebrate 200 years since birth of Lancaster pioneer

A tour in Lancaster will celebrate 200 years since the birth of one of the city's most prominent figures.

The tour explores the life and legacy of Thomas Storey and the building that bears his name - the Storey Centre.

Highlights of Storey's life include being elected as mayor of Lancaster multiple times, receiving a knighthood for his work, and standing for parliament. 

A historically important pioneer in many ways, his life is heavily woven into the history and development of the Lancaster we know today.

The Storey Company opened its doors on September 14 1848. This produced table baize and oilcloth and grew to become one of Lancaster’s largest employers by the end of the century.

Thomas was at the heart of the business and helped to expand its operations at home and overseas.

He had a wide range of interests outside of the factory including education and the social life of Lancaster.

Thomas became closely associated with the Royal Albert Asylum and the Royal Lancaster Infirmary and donated generous amounts of money and time to the two institutions.

He was one of the main forces behind the extension of the Mechanics Institute which later became the Storey Institute and Museum in 1891.

Between 1887 and 1891, in commemoration of the Jubilee of Queen Victoria, the Storey family financed its re-building donated it to the city as a technical and science school, newsroom, library, art school and gallery.

His country estate later became the site of the university.

The tour takes place on Tuesday October 28 and will be led by Gregory Wright, award-winning Lancaster-based Blue Badge tourist guide.

The evening begins at 6pm and concludes with refreshments.

Tickets are free and can be booked HERE.