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Guildhall
Guildhall The King Street, Cheapside. The Hall of the City Corporation was originally built in the 15th Century, was damaged by the Great Fire in 1666, then restored and a new frontage built in 1789, with the exception of the porch, which is part of the original building.
It is used for municipal business . Election of Lord Mayor and great public meetings on matters of National and Social interest. The banquet following the Lord Mayor's procession to the Law Courts on his taking office on the 9th November in each year is held here, at which the Prime Minister and other members of the Government are present, and during which important public announcements are often made.
The Hall itself has a fine roof erected by Sir Horace Jones in 1865, stained glass windows, one in memory of Prince Albert, and large monuments in honour of Earl Chatham, William Pitt, Nelson and Wellington. Lady Jane Grey, executed in the Tower, was tried in this Hall. Adjoining are the Aldermen's Room and the Common Council Chamber, the latter designed by Sir Horace Jones, and built in 1885.
The Corporation Free Library is also connected with Guildhall, admission free, daily from 10 to 4 or 5, and the Museum adjoining with many objects of ancient interest connected with the Metropolis. There is also an Art Gallery, and a Special Annual Free Exhibition of Great Works of Art has been of late years held here in the spring.
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