Cropton Village Hall and George V postbox

Image: © Pauline E Taken: 16 Apr 2011

During the 1860s the village had a small Reading Room in the Old Schoolhouse. This was incorporated into the Methodist Chapel (built 1830) which John Gill of Sutherland Lodge bought in the 1890's. A large Hall was added in 1911 and the Reading Room became known as the Village Hall. From 1900 through until the late 1950s the Village Hall was in great demand. Most nights the more elderly men met to play cards whilst the younger ones played billiards and darts. Dances were held throughout the year, along with regular concerts and pantomimes, parties, wedding receptions, lectures and meetings. Although he never accepted any rent the Reading Room was let to the village. The gift of John Gill became complete on 3 February 1949 when his relatives conveyed ownership to the people of Cropton. It was announced at the A.G.M. that the building had been conveyed to the committee as Trustees to be used in perpetuity for the benefit of the inhabitants of Cropton. The hall has recently been refurbished and the village now has one of the best village halls in the Ryedale area.

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