Capturing Cambridge encourages people of all ages to
discover the fascinating and inspiring histories of our streets.
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specific place, or person, of
interest. We believe the best way though
is to explore our wonderful map. Go on, unlock a Cambridge
secret that you never knew!
30 / 31 Trumpington Street, Fitzwilliam House / Hall
History of Fitzwilliam House, 30 Trumpington Street
Fitzwilliam House
Wikipedia: In 1869, Cambridge University altered its statutes to allow men who were not members of a college to become members of the University under the supervision of a censor, whose office was in Trumpington Street, opposite the Fitzwilliam Museum. This provided students who could not afford to belong to a college with a base from which to study at the University, allowing them to be admitted to degrees, sit examinations and compete for scholarships. The name “Fitzwilliam” was chosen by the students at a meeting of the Non-Collegiate Amalgamation Club in the Spring of 1887 and, as a result, the University decreed that the house in Trumpington Street could be known as Fitzwilliam Hall. This became the headquarters of the Non-Collegiate Students Board and provided student facilities and limited accommodation. It was renamed Fitzwilliam House in 1922.
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A B Gray in Cambridge Revisited (1921) notes the inscription above one of the ground floor windows. ‘1727 I H X’ : 1727 is the year it was built and I H are probably the initials of the owner.