Turnbull House (Wellington)

 building, heritage

Built in 1918 for the private residence of Alexander Turnbull and to house his extensive collection of maps, pictures, documents and over 55,000 volumes. Described as a mixed Scottish baronial style the building was completed at a cost of £6000. Unfortunately Alexander Turnbull died later that year and bequeathed his entire collection to the Crown. The history of Alexander Turnbull and Turnbull House has been well documented.

The Alexander Turnbull Library was officially opened in 1920 and remained there until 1973 when it was moved to its current location in the National Library of New Zealand building located on Molesworth Street. Today the Alexander Turnbull Library collection is regarded as New Zealand's largest collection of early printed books and fine printing with a collection policy to cover every period and aspect of our history.

Turnbull House now has a number of roles. It is used extensively by community groups as a popular place to meet within the Wellington CBD and is also a popular location for wedding receptions. It can also cater for corporate groups by providing rooms for training, conferences and seminars.

One of Wellington City's finest heritage buildings providing a function and meeting venue.
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