3-021-613 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The new Gymnasium in Myrtle-Street, Liverpool, 1865. 'The sensible and judicious speech of Lord Stanley at the opening of the new gymnasium...has been generally quoted, and may recommend the practice of healthy and invigorating bodily exercises to the youth of other cities and towns...The site, containing 1450 yards, in Myrtle-street, one of the most central parts of the town, was purchased on lease. The design of Mr. Walter Scott was selected, a contract was taken by Messrs. Nicholson and Ayre for £7000, and the foundation-stone of the building was laid on the 18th of July, 1864, by Mr. Charles Mozley, then Mayor. The building, as it now stands, is of most handsome construction externally, and of admirable proportions'. From "Illustrated London News", 1865.