Skegness Magazine

In May 1939 an article was published in a local newspaper to the effect of “Hassall calls for a museum in Skegness’. The article stated that Hassall, through his famous Jolly Fisherman, had enticed many holidaymakers to visit Skegness. The article went on to say that “a Conference held at Skegness last week led to his making further efforts to increase Skegness’ popularity”. The Conference (sheduled to be held in Skegness) was held by the Educational Handiwork Association and one of the delegates called upon the famous artist to suggest any ideas he had regarding the bracing resort which the delegates were due to visit. John Hassall responded with the following words:
“I would choose no more appropiate setting for putting my idea for the completion of Skegness before the notice of local authorities than the Educational Handicraft Association.
“This is what I would like to express to the Association.
“Skegness has all the natural amenities for the entertainment of the crowds of visitors in sun, sea and sands. There is, too every sort of attraction one expects in a fun fair.
“But there must be some days when wind and rain prevent the enjoyment of the Front.
“Let the EHA and the teachers use their influence to urge the institution of a Museum and Art Gallery so some size. The Town has everything else.
“On the Ingoldmells Foreshore (where Butlin’s Camp is) there is a prehistoric forest bed to be seen at extra low tide.
Mr James Giles has heaps of bones of hyenas, wolves, Irish elk, cave bear, etc., and a fine representitive collection of flint weapons and all from Skegness district. If you can get Mr Giles to attend one of the EHA meetings he would be a great help. He gave me some Roman clay salting pans with the thumbmarks of the potter clear enough for Scotland Yard to make use of, only, of course, 1,900 years too late!
“I, myself, could lend them enough paintings to fill Olympia.
“I think this idea of a Museum and Art Gallery would be sympathetically considered if the Association could point out the importance of the idea being local. They might even get up King John’s Crown. Anyway, it would be putting Brains on a level with Sunbathing.
“Such a Museum is a necesity, really. I’ve seen James Giles’ collection twice, and I am sure he would be very pleased to co-operate.
“So here’s wishing the Conference all the very best of good results and good luck to all of you.”

Wouldn’t it be a fine tribute to John Hassall, creator of the Skegness Jolly Fisherman, if the disused Pavilion in the Tower Gardens, Skegness was turned into a museum and art gallery as he wished sixty-four years ago? Perhaps we could name it the John Hassall Memorial Museum!

John Hassall’s First Visit to Skegness

John Hassall Revisits Skegness

Written by, and copyright of Skegness Magazine.