Vintage-style picture of Mompesson House. Picture: Emma James

Arts & Entertainment History News Wiltshire Magazine

Mompesson House calls for memories for anniversary exhibition

Jamie JonesSeptember 17, 20260 Comment0

MEMORIES of Mompesson House are being sought as part of plans to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Salisbury property being managed by the National Trust.

In 2027 the eighteenth-century townhouse, in Cathedral Close, is marking its 50th anniversary by inviting visitors to share their memories of the house and life in Salisbury in the 1950s, 60s and 70s.

The recollections and stories will be used as part of a special exhibition exploring the people and stories that have shaped Mompesson over the years, including the life of its last private owner, Denis Martineau, who lived there from 1952 until 1975.

As part of the exhibition, the team wants to include memories of the house and city from people who have visited, lived and worked in Salisbury in the years before and after the National Trust opened Mompesson to visitors in 1977.

Visitors at Mompesson House, Wiltshire. Picture: National Trust

Memories of Mompesson project

Jennifer Grene, visitor experience officer, said: “We often get visitors who remember coming to Mompesson when Denis Martineau was still alive, or who remember living here when teachers were housed in the attic.

“It’s going to be really exciting to get all of these memories together and present them in the house. It’s a great time to be focusing on the personal history of the people who lived in Salisbury, as the city looks all the way back to the founding of the Charter next year.”

Darren Wells, library manager – communities and engagement, added: “Wiltshire Libraries are very pleased to be hosting drop-in sessions for the Memories of Mompesson project.  Partnership work such as this really helps communities remember where they have come from, as they embrace the future.”

Mompesson House as it looks today. Picture: National Trust

To get involved, readers can share their memories using an online form here, or emailing the team at mompessonhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk, or by calling 01722 335659.

There will also be opportunities to join a community drop-in session at Mompesson House or Salisbury Library later this year.