‘A House Through Time’ events tell the story of Preston college building

Inspired by the BBC series, A House Through Time, a series of talks will be held, looking at the lives inside Number 5 Winckley Square.

Susan Douglass, one of the Friends of Winckley Square, has looked into the different uses of the building for over 170 years.

The building has been a home, grammar school and college over the years.

No 5 Winckley Square was built for Thomas Miller Junior and his family in the 1850s. Miller, at the time, was the principal shareholder in the Horrocks cotton empire.

Susan researched the house when it was a family home. By studying the plans at Lancashire Archives, she discovered that its design meant family members could avoid being in contact with the servants.

Miller was a wealthy art collector and had an enormous cellar of fine wines. No 5 was where he could display his vast wealth. But his money didn’t prevent family crises and scandals.

Its subsequent conversion to luxury apartments could have led to the destruction of many of its finest features but it didn’t and many were retained.

Susan explores the human stories that played out inside the many walls of the mansion. Individual tales shine a light on wider society. Susan’s work has resulted in a series of three talks. Each is self-contained but all three give the fullest picture of the story of a house.

In light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the arrival of women and child refugees in Lancashire, the Friends of Winckley Square will pass all the proceeds of ticket sales to Shepherd Street Trust who are working with Bernardo’s, supporting those fleeing war and destruction. The Central Methodist Church is providing the venue free of charge.

Details and to book on Eventbrite

13th June
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11th July
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1st August
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