The Edwardian period before the First World War was a period of prosperity across the UK, with Portrush , in particular, reflecting the affluence of the period. Buildings such as 27 Main Street, had details in the latest ‘Art Nouveau’ style. Portstewart Presbyterian Church (1904) is another elegant building from the period with clear influences of the style in its sweeping elegant curves. This was originally a movement of rebellion against modernity valuing craft skills and creativity over the repetitiveness and uniformity of industrial goods. Influenced by the Arts and Crafts Movement in England, the sweeping forms of nature were an important source of inspiration. The result was often elegant and bueatiful buildings.
But it was also a time of political turmoil with proposals to reinstate an Irish Parliament caused concern to Protestants. An extension of the franchise in the years from 1801, meant that they would now be a minority in such an institution. In 1912, c.500,000 people, led by political and church leaders, signed ‘ Ulster’s Solemn League and Covenant’ against ‘Home Rule’. Coleraine Town hall was used to collect signatures in this area.
But it was also a time of political turmoil with proposals to reinstate an Irish Parliament caused concern to Protestants. An extension of the franchise in the years from 1801, meant that they would now be a minority in such an institution. In 1912, c.500,000 people, led by political and church leaders, signed ‘ Ulster’s Solemn League and Covenant’ against ‘Home Rule’. Coleraine Town hall was used to collect signatures in this area.
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