Life Around the Park
Nottingham Park's unique character is placed in perspective by a consideration of the developments which took place around its periphery. From every edge, a different aspect of developing urban life could be viewed.
Schools were a growing feature of Nottingham life. George Packer was a highly regarded teacher of classics and mathematics in the mid-nineteenth century, with a school near Park Row. The 1851 census lists his students, including pupils from as far away as the Orkney Isles and Hobart, 'Van Diemen's Land' [Tasmania].
'Trademen's Advertisments' (Nottingham, 1844)
The establishment of Nottingham General Hospital was an important development at the edge of the Park. In 1780, the 2nd Duke of Newcastle under Lyne had given an acre of land from the former northern bailey of the Castle for the building of a hospital. This was matched by a contribution from the Corporation, and in 1782 the Nottingham General Hospital was opened.
The Dukes of Newcastle continued to support the hospital with annual subscriptions and in 1922 the 7th Duke made a further donation of land off Park Terrace.
Annual Report for The General Hospital 1812-1813
(Newcastle Collection, Ne C 6877)
The Park was extremely close to Nottingham Canal and wharves, something which would have made it an ideal location for commercial and industrial activity. Nottingham was a closely confined city, with little room for expansion, and in view of the developing hosiery production industry, it is perhaps surprising that the Park was not encroached upon.
In fact, in keeping with its residential status, the Duke's Wharves were ultimately removed to accommodate the building of Lenton [later Castle] Boulevard in 1883-1884.
Sketch of Wharf at Nottingham (Newcastle Collection, Ne C 13872/1-2)
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