Hey it’s Courtney again. On Wednesday our DukeEngage group visited Durham Town Hall. Rebuilt in 1851, this building is located in the middle of the city Market Place. Through this experience we got to hear (mostly at least, due to the loud street performer outside) about the history of the Town Hall, including information about the mayor’s guards, civic insignia (the sword, mace, etc.) and of the building of the town hall itself.
The Town Hall houses the Mayor’s Chamber where the mayoral proceedings of Durham take place. We got the opportunity to engage in a panel discussion with the current mayor of Durham, Mayor Jon Robinson, and other notable figures in Durham.
We also heard a very interesting story about a Polish man named Joseph Boruwłaski from the 18th century, who was around 99 centimeters and lived to be 97 years old. He toured around Europe during his lifetime, winning over people with his musical talent and wit, and eventually retired in Durham, England. There was a life sized portrait of him hanging in the Town Hall, as well as a life sized statue. Ultimately it was a very informative and cool experience, as the building was built so long ago and is still used today.