I often see reference to "The Roundhouse", a performing arts center in the UK. Apparently, it was a real railway roundhouse at one time. Does anyone know its railway-era history?

http://www.roundhouse.org.uk/reb_vision.asp
ryarger@rypn.org

> I often see reference to "The
> Roundhouse", a performing arts center
> in the UK. Apparently, it was a real railway
> roundhouse at one time. Does anyone know its
> railway-era history?

Quite possibly the oldest roundhouse still standing anywhere; designed by designed by Robert B. Dockray and his assistant Mr. Normanville under the supervision of Robert Stephenson for the North-West Railway. Built in 1846. Completely-enclosed, in the English style, just like Martinsburg W Va.

It was a famous venue in London in the late 60s and early 70s; one of the birthplaces of "Glam Rock" and punk. It fell on hard times again and closed in 1983; it is now being renovated as a community performing arts space for young people.

Here's their Web site--not much on the railway history.

eledbetter@rypn.org

Another site says "The Roundhouse was built as an engine shed in 1846 but was used for that purpose for only two decades. It then became a warehouse for Gilbeys gin until 1960 when it had its first spell as an arts centre."

eledbetter@rypn.org