What was once Hilden School, a beloved local landmark and schoolhouse, has taken on a new life. Once opened in 1972, the school flourished with giggles, joy and a palpable feeling of community. Its numbers drastically fell over the years, forcing it to close its doors in 2008. Today, thanks to a £2 million renovation project, the site has been reborn as a community hub that offers new employment opportunities and aims to rekindle the spirit of the original school.
Margaret Hanthorne started her own journey on the path toward Hilden School in 1972. She looks back nostalgically on the dynamic cultural and intellectual climate that pervaded its corridors. “When I heard those children’s voices this morning it brought me back…the laughter, the singing, it had a sense of purpose. It was lovely,” stated Dr. Sally Montgomery from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, reflecting on the emotional significance of the reopening.
The newly opened hub, which includes a day care and a tea room, employs 20 permanent staff and provides a lively community hub. Local councillor Tim Mitchell praised the investment, saying it had been “money well spent.” He echoed Dr. Montgomery’s sentiments about the importance of retaining the school’s legacy. In addition to celebrating a building once in danger, now being reborn, Dr. Montgomery furthered the good news. It will include a beautiful community nursery and tea room that the neighborhood will be very excited about.
Robbie Butler, Lagan Valley MLA, highlighted the historical link between Hilden School and the adjacent weaver’s mill, as well as the education offered. He hopes the renovation serves as a model for thoughtful and vibrant community revitalization. When we do it well, we’re not just designing buildings, we’re building pieces of Pittsburgh that instill a sense of community and place,” he said.
The purpose of the renovation is to bring 21st century amenities. At the same time, it pays tribute to Hilden School’s legacy by evoking the memory of its past through art. Our community is excited, and for good reason … it’s hard not to feel giddy about this next phase. The second is their overwhelming desire to do more with their heritage.
