The Corfe Castle Town Trust

The Corfe Castle Town Trust is a UK-based nonprofit organisation established in 1889 with the primary aim of preserving and maintaining historic sites in Corfe Castle, Dorset. It is registered with the Charity Commission under charity number 214278.

History and Purpose

Formally established by the Charity Commission on 9 July 1889, the Trust’s original role was to own and preserve properties and assets of the Borough of Corfe Castle for the benefit of the local village community[4]. A key focus of the Trust is maintaining the smallest Town Hall in England, a historic building that has served multiple civic functions over the past 350 years, including hosting meetings of Mayors and Barons, courts of justice, the Parish Council, and Purbeck marblers[1].

Activities

The Trust conserves the Town Hall and operates a museum within it, showcasing the heritage and economy of the Isle of Purbeck area. The museum includes a range of interactive displays that highlight local history, such as dinosaur footprints (Iguanadon), village traditions, and educational videos made by local school students[3][5].

The Town Hall also features a meeting room on the first floor that is used for talks, courses, exhibitions, and community meetings. The building underwent refurbishment in 2006 to both preserve its historic structure and enhance its utility as a community resource for future generations[1].

Local History and Community Involvement

The Corfe Castle Town Trust supports a Local History Group, which meets regularly to research and investigate the area's rich history. Group activities include surveys, visits to notable local buildings, and presentations by local experts[4].

Governance

The Trust is managed by a board of trustees, including a chairman, treasurer, secretary, and several other honorary officers and members. These trustees oversee the Trust’s operations, maintenance efforts, and community engagement programs[4].

Fundraising

Maintaining the historic Town Hall and supporting the museum requires ongoing funding. The Trust accepts donations from the public and encourages support to continue its conservation work and educational activities[4].

The Corfe Castle Town Trust plays an essential role in preserving the cultural and historical legacy of Corfe Castle village, offering both residents and visitors opportunities to engage with the area’s unique heritage through its museum and community programs.

[1] https://corfecastletowntrust.co.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5212844 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/214278 [4] https://corfecastletowntrust.co.uk/about-us/ [5] https://corfecastle.co.uk/item/corfe-castle-town-trust-museum/