Hall History
The Community Hall at Tipton St John dates back to 1914 when it was founded as the Church Institute and overseen by the Church Warden, Frances Beck (whose grave can be found in the church graveyard, only metres away). The initial uses of the hall were for the ‘spiritual, moral, intellectual or physical wellbeing of the inhabitants of the parish’ and the Vicar was responsible for keeping an eye on proceedings (Knight, 2014 p5). These early uses included: Scouts, Boys Brigade, a men’s club, the WI, drill hall, flower shows and dances. Reminiscences from the time recall the hall being of great local importance and pride, being one of few such institutions in the locality. Theatrical performances have been a keystone in the Hall’s activities since the beginning, not least the productions of the TIPPs in recent times.
During WW2 the hall was subject to the possibility of being requisitioned by the Government and did indeed become the home for the local Home Guard. There was also a Rifle club from 1941! However, the Home Guard were relocated from 1943 for anything other than ‘lectures’ as excessive drill practice was in danger of damaging the floor.
The hall has seen various expansions and developments, including the addition of the small hall and car park, and since 1999 it’s vibrancy and role in the local community has been cared for by many voluntary trustees.
