A welcome change from the more formal events of the last few
days was a visit to the Bank of England Museum with members of the Company and
associated friends. So, it was a great pleasure for the Mistress and I to join
with 20 others for our private presentation into the workings of the “Old Lady
of Threadneedle Street”!
Assembling in the Rotunda we were ushered into the private
screening room where our guide, Shona gave us a very interesting and insightful
presentation on the foundation, history and the building of the Bank over the centuries.
Many little known facts were given as well as the more general understanding of
how monetary systems work. Fascinating.
Of course, everyone wants to see the gold bullion stored in
the vaults but sadly these days they are not for public display. However, in
the general exhibition rooms there is a real gold bar which – by inserting
ones’ hand through a special security screen – one can attempt to lift (see
photo). They are very heavy and it would be impossible (and highly inadvisable)
to attempt to make off with it. But it’s a great display.
The Museum also houses endless details about bank notes and
their history and it was fun to see notes dating back to ones’ youth and even
before – remember 10-shilling notes? (50p in today’s money!). It is a great
Museum and full of amazing items from the world of money and we greatly enjoyed
our time there.
We followed the visit with lunch at Jackson and Rye on Old
Jewry and had a wonderful meal and were well attended. On departure, several
members set off to the Tower of London to see the new installation “Beyond the
Deepening Shadow” (we had seen it earlier in the week) but were thwarted by the
enormous crowds.
But a great day out and lovely to see so many members and
friends in fellowship together.
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