The Watford Observer has teamed up with Watford Museum and its curator Sarah Priestley to take a journey back to the town’s past through items or places of historical significance.
The 19th item in ‘a history of Watford in 50 objects’ is the Cassiobury bandstand, demonstrating how the town's history is all around us, including in the array of green spaces the town boasts and that can still be enjoying during lockdown.
Sarah said: "This Grade II listed structure was commissioned for the new park in 1912 and designed by Hill and Smith. It reflects the ambitions of Watfordians for Cassiobury Park for leisure and enjoyment. It’s use declined after World War Two and the bandstand was dismantled and found a new home next to Watford Central Library and Town Hall.
"The bandstand was lovingly restored as part of the Cassiobury Heritage Lottery Project, and now stands proudly in its rightful place in the park and is in safer times a focal point for music and performances of all kinds. At the moment performances aren’t possible but it’s one of the most stunning features of the park.
"Bandstands take on another significance as the world’s leading expert on this beautiful pieces of civic art is none other than Watford Council’s own Paul Rabbitts. You can find out more about these often overlooked architectural gems in his books and online at https://paulrabbitts.co.uk/"
Watford Museum is currently closed under lockdown restrictions but you can still pay it a virtual visit at www.watfordmuseum.org.uk or find the museum on Facebook and Instagram @watfordmuseum
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