This morning I was invited to the opening of the replica bothy at the Guinea Gardens allotment site in Edgbaston.
Back in the 1880s, every one of the gardens had a brick built bothy and many of the garden holders would stay over at weekends or even for a holiday. Most of the buildings were demolished in the 1950s or 60s, but one remained – only to be damaged in an explosion reputedly caused by a tramp who was living in it.
For years the Guinea Gardens committee have been wanting to rebuild the damaged bothy. Finally, for various reasons, it was decided it was easier to leave the ruins as they are, and build a replica bothy close by. Today the new bothy was officially opened and it looks absolutely wonderful. The project was partly funded by Edgbaston Ward Committee’s Community Chest. The building will be used for eduational visits, committee meetings etc.
The original 19th century bothy in ruins
Replica bothy officially opened today
