An article appeared in the Gazette in early July 1924 that claimed to be of interest to ‘all concerned with education in the southwest’. Exeter University traces its roots back to mid-19th century with St Lukes College and the Exeter Schools of Art and Science. The latter were housed initially in the Royal Albert Memorial Museum moving later, next door, to what is now the Phoenix Arts Centre.
By 1922 it had become the University College of the Southwest. However, the article suggests that before it could become a degree awarding university in its own rite, it would need to find new premises.
Streatham Hall (now Reed Hall) had been bought by W H Reed, a former Mayor of Exeter who gifted the Hall to the University College with the proviso that it sought full University status. Gradually, the Streatham Campus was expanded. At this point it was only able to award external London degrees. It wasn’t until 1955 that its Charter was awarded and the University of Exeter became a reality.
The Museum also holds the minutes of a meeting held in the 1930s to explore the links that the University College could have with Tiverton. Among the suggestions were ‘occasional lectures… of high standard and immediate interest’ ‘the arrangement of Exhibitions and productions of music, mime and drama’ and ‘the arrangement of training centres which might help local leaders for the voluntary organisations in Tiverton and area’.
J Wippel & Co Robemakers advert
E.U.C Text Books catalogue
Written by Museum Volunteer, Sue B.