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Wilton’s is certainly a lucky survivor, 150 years and still standing. Despite attempts by the Luftwaffe and the GLC slum clearances John Wilton’s music hall building has defiantly remained untouched. Unfortunately what does not remain are many records of the man himself, John Wilton sold the music hall in 1868 and none of his papers survive in our archive.

One poignant item recently uncovered is a letter from Les Wilton a relative of John, who was contacted by one of our chief campaigning saviours, Peter Honri, in 1978. The letter explains that ‘a lot of photos or letters were destroyed or lost, it seems very sad.’ What Les is able to provide is a four leafed clover for luck!

Amazingly it is still attached, although now a no-leafed clover. Perhaps there is still some luck left in the small brown stalk, or the stains left by the leafs. It has seen the building from dereliction to beautiful vibrant venue, and just like the building long may it last!