A historic cottage, the birthplace of renowned poet John Clare, has received a significant financial boost to aid in its conservation. The Historic England grant of £22,500 will be utilized to assess the future conservation needs of the building, located in Helpston, England.
Keira Harvey, Chief Executive Officer of the Grade II* listed John Clare Cottage, expressed her enthusiasm about the funding, stating, “We’re delighted to have received funding from Historic England, which allows us to better understand the condition and needs of the building.” She emphasized the importance of safeguarding the site where Clare spent his formative years and promoting his enduring message regarding humanity’s connection to nature.
Born in 1793 at this thatched cottage, John Clare is celebrated for his poetry that vividly captures the essence of English rural life during the era of the Enclosure Acts. These laws transformed common lands into private properties, which had a profound impact on the countryside and its communities. Clare’s observations of the natural world positioned him as a pioneering figure in environmental literature.
The grant will facilitate comprehensive surveys of the cottage’s current condition. These assessments will investigate issues such as timber decay and dampness, both of which pose risks to the structure. The findings will be crucial for the John Clare Trust, which aims to develop a long-term conservation strategy. This strategy will likely involve additional fundraising efforts to ensure the cottage’s preservation for future generations.
Visitors can enjoy the cottage, located on Woodgate in Helpston, during operating hours from Wednesday to Saturday, 10:30 am to 2:30 pm. In addition to the museum, the site features a café and gardens. Admission prices are set at £8 for adults and £20 for families, which includes an audio guide to enhance the visitor experience.
The funding from Historic England not only supports the conservation of a significant cultural landmark but also helps to keep alive the legacy of John Clare, whose works continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.
