Shakespeare's Schoolroom unveils new sign commemorating its literary heritage

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall in Stratford-upon-Avon has unveiled a new locally designed and forged ironwork sign on the side of the medieval building, representing facets of its fascinating history.

The intricate and bold design was the work of Master Restorer and Cabinetmaker Tim Ross-Bain, who has been an integral figure in the overall restoration of the Schoolroom, having created the benches and other decorative wooden forms that help bring to life the building’s Tudor past.  Once the design was finalised, the sign was forged in Tim’s workshop at Halford.

The design features various significant elements that connect the history of the building, which has been standing in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon for almost six hundred years.  The symbol of the Tudor Rose is repeated, referencing the appearance of this decorative feature throughout the inside of the building and the Guild cross, the symbol of King Edward VI School, also features.  

An image of William Shakespeare appears centrally on a hanging piece of the ironwork as testament to his time spent in the building as a schoolboy from 1571 to 1578. One of the most striking elements of the design is a hand holding a quill to signify that it was here in the Guildhall that William began his journey to becoming the world’s greatest playwright. 

Lindsey Armstrong, General Manager for Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, says, “Tim Ross-Bain’s sign is the finishing touch for Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall, with the majority of the restoration work having been carried out in 2016.  And what a finishing touch it is, Tim has created a beautiful piece of artwork and craftsmanship that is a fitting tribute to this historic building.”

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall is open daily to visitors (11am to 5pm).  For further visitor information visit www.ShakespearesSchoolroom.org