You're now approaching St Paul's Young Men's Club, which you'll find at 48 d'Arcy Doyle Place, formerly known as Nicholas Street. Look for a charming brick building with painted cream trims, it’s hard to miss! The entrance is to the upper floor, and you’ll notice the unique arched windows on the western elevation, flanked by rectangular ones on the south side. The vibrant brickwork and traditional design with ridge ventilators make it stand out. Look for the sign that reads "Ipswich Art Gallery" as a sure indicator.
St Paul's Young Men's Club is a heritage-listed former clubhouse, now functioning as an art gallery. Designed by George Brockwell Gill and built in 1911, this building was originally aimed at fostering the spiritual, intellectual, and physical development of young men. Imagine a place with a reading room, a gymnasium, a billiard room, and even a piano for "wholesome exercises for body and mind." It sounds like a fun hangout spot, doesn’t it?
The building has served various purposes through the decades: during World War I, it became a Soldiers' Rest Room, and later in 1939, Ipswich City Council bought it and housed council engineering staff. It’s been home to the city library and eventually was transformed into the Ipswich Regional Art Gallery, which now displays a mix of contemporary and historical exhibitions.
It's fascinating to think about the multitude of activities this building has seen over more than a century. From parliamentary mock debates to being a rest room for soldiers, every brick in this building has countless stories to tell. Now, as an art gallery, it continues to be a creative and educational hub in Ipswich.
And there you have it! Enjoy absorbing some art in a building that’s layered with history and charm. On to our next stop!
