Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 1929 (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
1 plaque
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
Experimental bakery classes were first offered by the Polytechnic in 1894 to see if there was sufficient interest in the subject. The subsequent popularity of the classes led the Polytechnic to build a bakery 1898 and develop links with the National Association of Master Bakers and Confectioners, resulting in the creation of the National School of Bakery and Confectionary in 1899. In 1902 the Polytechnic built an extension to Borough Road Building to house new classroom and laboratories for the School.
In 1922 the School made the wedding cake offered to HRH Princess Mary by the National Association of Master Bakers and Confectioners, and in 1948 a christening cake was made for HRH Prince Charles. New buildings for the school were opened on 20th February 1930 by HRH the Duke of York. After the Second World War, the School offered the first course in the UK for Chocolate and Sugar Confectionery, which was also believed to be the first of its type in Europe. The National Bakery School celebrated its centenary in 1994 and its 125th anniversary in 2019.
Archival history
Unveiled at the National Bakery School in September 1929 by Mr. W. H. Palmer in the presence of several students, staff and members of the Bakery trade. Originally a photograph of Mr Blandy was placed above the plaque. The Bakery School moved to new extension buildings during 1969 and the plaque was reinstated in the Kirkland Lecture Theatre where it remains.
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Plaque inscribed, 'To the honoured memory of John Blandy, founder and for some years teacher to the first permanent classes for bread that were held at the Boro' Polytechnic, who died 4th March, 1928, aged 85 years. This table was erected by the trade on the initiative of some of the early students in grateful recognition of the many years of self-sacrificing service he gave to the cause of technical education and for his zeal, energy and devotion in promoting higher and nobler standards of trade proficiency.'
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Conditions governing reproduction
Language of material
- English
Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Ornate bronze plaque on wooden mount
Finding aids
Allied materials area
Existence and location of originals
Existence and location of copies
Related units of description
LSBU/10/1/4 - article about the memorials' unveiling.